Southern Documentary Fund
We cultivate documentaries made in or about the American South, providing makers with professional support, filmmaking grants, and fiscal sponsorship. The Southern Documentary Fund (SDF) is an arts nonprofit that cultivates documentary media made in or about the South. It’s our mission to empower Southern makers to tell stories through Southern eyes. We prioritize underrepresented voices, especially those with long connections to the South. Inspired by our belief that media has the power to change lives, we provide makers with diverse resources, including grants, fiscal sponsorship, mentorship, community awareness, education and training – all to champion Southern documentary and lower barriers to entry for new and emerging makers.
Southern Documentary Fund
The Southern Documentary Fund (SDF) is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to supporting documentary makers and promoting stories from or about the American South. Founded in 2002 by independent filmmakers Steve Channing and Cynthia Hill, SDF is headquartered in Durham, North Carolina. It serves as the first and only arts nonprofit in the region exclusively dedicated to supporting documentary artists.
Mission and Goals
The SDF mission is centered around providing resources to documentary artists, promoting Southern stories, and fostering creativity and freedom of expression. Key objectives include:
- Promoting Southern Stories: Highlighting the richness and complexity of Southern narratives.
- Supporting Documentarians: Offering grants, fiscal sponsorship, mentorship, and training to filmmakers.
- Building Community: Connecting documentarians and audiences across the region to foster collaboration and appreciation for documentary culture.
Activities and Programs
- Fiscal Sponsorship: Allows documentary projects to receive tax-deductible donations by providing them with a nonprofit status. SDF charges a modest administrative fee for this service.
- Mentorship and Training: Offers mentorship programs and specialized training sessions to support the professional growth of filmmakers.
- Community Engagement: Organizes events like screenings and conferences to connect makers and audiences, promoting dialogue and understanding.
Achievements
Since its inception, the SDF has sponsored over 100 documentaries that have gained international recognition and critical acclaim. These documentaries cover a wide range of topics, including civil rights, environmental issues, history, and arts, contributing to social change, education, and community development.
Funding and Status
The SDF is classified as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, making donations tax-deductible. The organization generates revenue primarily through contributions and program services. Membership options are available for both documentary makers and enthusiasts, offering various benefits such as eligibility for fiscal sponsorship and exclusive event invitations.
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From Social media
News about Southern Documentary Fund from their social media (Facebook and X).
- Southern Documentary Fund
- 2025-07-21
“Gee’s Bend: Welcome To The Hole” is a bold, insider look into a legendary Black community in Alabama—told by those who live it. (tw) ... more
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- Southern Documentary Fund
- 2025-07-18
🎥 Ready to bring your Southern story to life. (tw) ... more
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