Date: Saturday, June 8

Venue: The Fruit (305 S. Dillard St, Durham, NC 27701)

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

SEMINAR BREAKDOWN:

WHY SHORTER CAN BE BETTER: THE IMPACT OF DOCUMENTARY SHORTS (panel) (10:30am – 12pm)

The demand for short documentaries is exploding due to new platforms and audiences craving for shorter content. In this panel, we’ll discuss what funders are looking for, distribution models, and the impact that shorts have in community engagement.

Moderator: Evan Mascagni (DocShop South)

Panelist: John Beder (filmmaker)

Panelist: Caitlin Mae Burke (IF/THEN Shorts)

Panelist: Pamela Torno (ITVS)

Lunch (12pm – 1pm) Provided by SDF

DEMYSTIFYING SUNDANCE (workshop) (1pm – 2pm)

The Sundance Institute Documentary Film Program (DFP) supports non-fiction storytellers worldwide in the production of cinematic documentaries on contemporary themes. Year-round support of filmmakers includes grants, labs, and strategic advice from development to distribution, making the DFP one of the foremost resources for non-fiction filmmaking globally. Join Documentary Fund Coordinator Sara Glassberg for this insider session to learn more about the program’s current initiatives and priorities. Sara will share information and advice on how to apply for upcoming opportunities, including the next open call for applications for the Documentary Fund, and will answer any questions you may have about the program.

Presenter: Sara Glassberg (Sundance)

SUSTAINABILITY IN THE SOUTH (panel) (2:30pm – 4pm)

As the Southern region emerges as a vibrant center for documentary filmmaking, numerous filmmakers are grappling with the challenge of sustaining a livelihood while pursuing their passion for documentary storytelling. In this panel, we’ll explore diverse strategies through which documentary makers can leverage their expertise to generate income while dedicating themselves to their own documentary projects.

Moderator: Elijah Yetter-Bowman (filmmaker)

Panelist: Cynthia Hill (filmmaker)

Panelist: Rex Miller (filmmaker)

Panelist: Rodrigo Dorfman (filmmaker)

FUNDRAISING FOR IMPACT CAMPAIGNS (workshop) (4:30pm – 5:30pm)

Join Working Films’ Molly Murphy for a discussion about the many factors that go into fundraising for documentary impact campaigns. From grant writing to budgeting, crafting a compelling deck, to making an ask to an individual donor – you’ll gain valuable insights and strategies for securing the resources needed to position your film to drive positive change.

Presenter: Molly Murphy (Working Films)