Independent Lens Creator Lab

Independent Lens is seeking to support independent storytellers on social media. We are looking for vertical content creators whose stories will resonate with Gen Z and/or millennial audiences.

We provide up to $36,000 in funding per creator for a six-month time period, to produce up to 12 videos for Independent Lens/PBS social media platforms.

No, this fund is intended for creators who want to make short video content that’s native to social media platforms such as YouTube Shorts, Instagram, or TikTok. For our traditional short- and long-form documentary funding, please refer to our Get Funded page.

Yes. Despite our best efforts to ensure accessibility of itvs.org and our application software, there may be some limitations. Please reach out to funding@itvs.org for any accessibility needs.

No. We are seeking to support creators who produce vertical videos.

No, only a single creator can apply. We are not accepting collective applications at this time.

Yes, creators funded through this initiative will be offered a non-exclusive agreement to produce for Independent Lens. Some limitations may apply and all videos produced for ITVS will be exclusive to Independent Lens.

No, the applicant must be an independent producer, not an organization such as a studio, university, foundation, talent agency, or nonprofit media organization.

No, the application will become available at the time of the call launching.

There is no length preference. We’re looking for audience engagement and work that showcases why your work aligns with the Independent Lens brand.

No, in order to maintain a consistent and fair application process, ITVS will not accept applications after the deadline.

No, applications must be submitted through the online process. If you are experiencing difficulty using the online form, please contact itvs@itvs.org.

You may send an email query with specific questions to itvs@itvs.org. Please understand that we cannot provide status updates. If ITVS needs additional information, we will contact you during the review and decision process.

No, there is no submission fee to apply for ITVS funding.

You will receive an email from the application portal confirming ITVS has received your proposal. Check your Spam folder, as it is system generated.

No. In order to maintain a consistent and fair application process, ITVS will not accept application updates after the deadline. Should your project advance to the panel phase of review, you will be asked to submit additional materials.

Applicants advancing to Panel Review will be notified within 12 weeks after the application window closes. Final determinations will follow at 20 weeks, and all applicants will receive written notice of funding decisions via email.

No. All decisions by ITVS regarding funding and the application process are final and are not subject to appeal.