Big Sky Film Grant
Established in 2013 – the Big Sky Film Grant Program builds and supports partnerships with filmmakers and production companies with the intention to create Montana film industry jobs. The Program serves as an advocate for Montana filmmakers, crew, and service industries. To qualify, a production must shoot at least 50% of principal photography in Montana. The BSFG and the Montana Film Office are funded by the 4% Lodging Facility Use Tax – commonly known as the “Bed Tax.”
BSFG-eligible productions include: Feature Films | Short Films | Documentaries | Television | Limited Series
Certain categories of productions are excluded from the program, including, but not limited to, broadcast news or current affairs programs, interview or talk shows, instructional videos, sport shows or events, political campaigns, adult content, and daytime soap operas.
Grant Categories
Feature Film & TV
Awarded to a feature-length film, TV series, or limited series that shoots at least 50% of principal photography in Montana and has a Montana spend of $350K (or more). Possible award amount is not capped.
Resident Filmmaker
Awarded to a feature-length project that is produced by a Montana resident filmmaker that has a validated credit as a Producer, Director, or primary Director of Photography. Must shoot at least 50% of principal photography in Montana. Possible award amount is $1,000 to $100K per project.
Short-Form Content
Awarded to filmmakers who create short-form content. Examples include short narrative, pilots, documentary, animation, webisodes, Montana-centric stories, and series 60 minutes or less with budgets under $350K per episode. Must be produced, created, and/or filmed at least 50% in Montana. Possible award amount is $1,000 to $50K per project.
When to Apply — What to Expect
The Big Sky Film Grant Program does not have an opening date for submissions at this time (updated August 1, 2023). Please continue to monitor the website for updates.
TO PREPARE TO APPLY TO THE BSFG PROGRAM: Read the Instructions & Guidelines HERE – to determine if you are right for the program, what to expect in the application, and program rules and requirements.
Questions?
To receive more information about the Big Sky Film Grant program, contact:
Montana Film Office
montanafilm@mt.gov
406.841.2876