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 film 50% or more of the 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, religious or 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 film 50% or more of the principal photography in Montana and has a Montana spend of at least $350,000. Possible award amount is not capped, but subject to annual program funding.
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 Director of Photography. Must film 50% or more of the principal photography in Montana. Possible award amount is $1,000 to $100,000 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 50% or more in Montana. Possible award amount is $1,000 to $50,000 per project.
COMING SOON – NEW GRANT CATEGORY: Resident Filmmaker Short-Form Content
When to Apply — What to Expect
The Big Sky Film Grant program is undergoing an update as a result of recent changes in governing regulation (SB540). When grant program guidelines are finalized the grant application cycle will open; tentatively set for late January or early February 2024.
Please continue to monitor the website for updates and be sure to sign up to receive notifications from the Department of Commerce Montana Film Office.
TO PREPARE TO APPLY TO THE BSFG PROGRAM: Note the grant program guidelines will be updated and revised for use in 2024. Current BSFG Instructions & Guidelines are available to download and review, but are subject to change. For assistance, please contact the film office.
Questions?
To receive more information about the Big Sky Film Grant program, contact:
Montana Film Office
montanafilm@mt.gov
406.841.2876