Black Public Media opens submissions for 10th PitchBLACK, offering filmmakers up to $150,000 in production funding

Black Public Media has opened submissions for its 2026 Open Call, inviting independent filmmakers to submit feature‑length nonfiction projects for a chance to compete in the 10th PitchBLACK Forum & Awards. Selected applicants will receive $20,000 to support their projects, and the winning pitch will earn $150,000 in production funding.

BPM Launches 2026 Open Call for PitchBLACK

Submissions are open through Oct. 1 at 11:59 p.m. PST, and projects must be suitable for public media distribution. BPM said it is seeking stories that explore critical issues, promote cultural understanding and engage national or local audiences.

Eligibility Requirements Detailed

Applicants must be U.S. citizens and serve as the project’s producer or director. They must also have at least three years of professional producing or directing experience or attach a senior producer to the project. Additionally, applicants must hold artistic, budgetary and editorial control and own the project’s copyright.

BPM will select five projects for next spring’s pitch competition. The organization will also host a free informational webinar on Sept. 9 at 6 p.m. ET to guide applicants through the process.

PitchBLACK’s Impact Continues

Since launching PitchBLACK in 2015, BPM has awarded more than $2 million to film and immersive media projects. Films that have competed at PitchBLACK have premiered on PBS, WORLD, Create and PBS Digital. Program alumni have produced work for PBS, CNN, Showtime, Netflix, HBO, BET, NBC and The CW.

Last month, two former PitchBLACK winners earned top jury prizes at BlackStar Film Festival. Zenón and the Rebel Boats won Best Feature Documentary, and Finding Your Laughter earned Special Mention.

Executive Director Issues Call for Urgent Stories

“As we prepare for our 10th PitchBLACK, we are looking for filmmakers with urgent, original stories that can deepen understanding of the Black experience and connect with audiences across the country,” said Leslie Fields‑Cruz, executive director of Black Public Media.

“We’re looking forward to identifying compelling projects, investing in the people behind them and helping prepare filmmakers to take their work to the next level.”

BPM Pushes Forward Despite Funding Loss

BPM continues its work despite losing $1.8 million after Congress rescinded federal funding for public media in 2025. In response, BPM created the Black Stories Production Fund to ensure Black stories are never again subject to political whims.

The organization is also expanding its donor base through its 1.8 Million Donors campaign. BPM encourages supporters to contribute through its donation page and follow the organization on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

To learn more, visit Black Public Media’s website.