Frequently Asked Questions

Why is AFS only interested in helping out filmmakers who are already accepted into major film festivals?

Even those filmmakers who get their films into major film festivals are frequently broke since they've spent all their money just getting their film done.

What if I have a film shot in Texas, written by a Texan, produced by a Texan, but directed by someone who lives in New Orleans? Can I apply?

No, sorry, this grant program is designed to help directors from Texas follow their films outside the state.

My film premiered at one of those festivals on the "pre-approved list" in 2007. I spent a fortune at the festival. Can I get the grant?

Sorry, you must apply BEFORE the travel occurs.

My film got into SXSW and I live in El Paso. Gas is expensive!

Sorry, even though we have a huge state, this program is designed to help filmmakers show their work outside the borders of Texas.

The festival I got into is flying me out and putting me up. Can I still get a travel grant?

Yes. If the festival on the "pre-approved" list, it's likely that travel expenses are perhaps only partially covered by the festival, as the support given by the festival was one of the factors in developing the list. Also, some of those festivals on that list are inconsistent in the support they offer filmmakers - no travel covered for shorts filmmakers, but they will fly out feature filmmakers.

Is it possible to email in the additional documentation rather than mail it?

Yes. There is much less paperwork for this grant program than with TFPF, so email is acceptable. Completed applications and additional documents can be sent to tfpf@austinfilm.org.