Championing Southern Stories

Southern Documentary Fund (SDF) is a trusted partner for veteran, emerging, and first time documentary makers across our region, helping them direct their lenses and microphones at powerful Southern stories and critical issues.

A New Moment in Southern Storytelling

Southern Documentary Fund and Reel South are proud to announce a dynamic new partnership designed to elevate bold Southern stories. Together, they are strengthening the infrastructure behind independent film in the South—investing in artists, accelerating projects, and ensuring authentic Southern stories reach the broad audiences they deserve.

Join us for learning and community

Mar
25
25 Mar 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
What does it truly mean to make films ethically? Join Emmy Award–winning producer and director Daresha Kyi for a powerful and timely...
Jun
05
05 - 07 Jun 2026 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
The Southern Documentary Convening is an annual three-day conference for first-time, emerging and experienced documentary makers taking place this year in Durham, NC. Attendees...

What we do

Southern Documentary Fund is dedicated to supporting  Southern makers and stories. Please see our resources below to learn more!

Fiscal Sponsorship

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Mentorship

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Film Screenings

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Filmmaking Grants

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Our Impact

$1.8M
In fiscal sponsorship funds raised since 2023
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100 +
Projects currently under fiscal sponsorship
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$155K
In filmmaker grants awarded since 2023
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50 +
Festival awards and recognition since 2022
Numbers on our
Commitment to Southern Stories
0
Projects
0
Years
0
Programs

Get your Early Bird Passes today

Get ready for another 3 days of learning, networking and good genuine Southern community fun! 

Voices of the South:
A Campaign Of Giving

Supporting southern stories and makers

This Giving Tuesday, join Southern Documentary Fund in reaching our $5,000 goal to support Southern filmmakers. Your gift amplifies diverse voices, fuels powerful storytelling, and ensures Southern stories continue to be told.