Y-CAM Production Grant
The Y-CAM Production Grant supports young filmmakers in the Mid-Atlantic region (ages 13–19) with funding to create new moving-image projects. Each cycle, one or two recipients receive $600 to bring their vision to life—from film and animation to podcasts or experimental work.
Through the Y-CAM Production Grant, young filmmakers receive support to bring their stories to life, and creative partners help turn imagination into real-world opportunities. Our goal is to connect passion with possibility — empowering youth to create while inviting a community of collaborators to transform creativity into lasting impact.
We believe great stories change how people see the world. This award empowers emerging creators to build skills, gain confidence, and share their voice. Whether you are filming your first short, animating a story, or finishing your documentary, this grant helps you take the next step.
Applications close on December 31, 2025, and the first recipients will be announced January 15, 2026. Stay tuned for updates and stories from the next generation of filmmakers.
About Y-CAM & the Production Grant
Y-CAM is a creative community that empowers young filmmakers to explore their voice and vision through storytelling. What began as a small program affiliated with the DC Independent Film Forum (DCIFF) has evolved into a year-round platform that provides youth with mentorship, workshops, and resources to build skills, confidence, and opportunities. Through hands-on learning and community-driven programs, Y-CAM helps young storytellers develop their craft, connect with peers, and gain real-world filmmaking experience. Whether they’re learning the fundamentals of storytelling, producing their first short film, or exploring new forms of digital media, Y-CAM is there to guide their journey.
The Y-CAM Production Grant extends this mission by giving young filmmakers the financial support to bring their stories to life. It’s more than just a grant — it’s a bridge between inspiration and execution, designed to help creators turn what they’ve learned into something tangible.
Together, Y-CAM’s programs and this Production Grant nurture the next generation of filmmakers — offering not only access to funding but also a sense of belonging, collaboration, and the belief that their stories matter.
Over the past decade, hundreds of young filmmakers have participated in Y-CAM programs — from storytelling workshops and mentorship labs to hands-on production challenges and festival screenings. Many have gone on to study film, media, and digital arts, while others have used their new creative skills to strengthen communication, leadership, and confidence in any career path they pursue.
Who can apply?
In order to be considered, applicants must prove to be between 13–19 years old.
The other requirements for applying are:
Only United States residents can apply. More specifically we currently accept applications from residents of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and the national capital of Washington, D.C.
Applicants must serve as director or lead creator of the project.
Applicants must have a valid US High School ID or equivalent.
Applicants must work with an Adult Producer or Mentor (teacher, youth leader, or creative mentor).
Applicants can apply as an individual or as part of a team.
Organizations sponsoring teen-led projects are also eligible.
What do we fund?
Recipient of the awards are encouraged to use it for what moves their project forward:
Filming, prep, editing, post-production, sound, animation.
Equipment or service rentals.
Transportation and production-related expenses.
Paying collaborators directly tied to production.
We do not fund: meals, unrelated personal expenses, or non-media purchases.
Expectations
Awardees agree to:
Submit at least one photo or progress update for donor engagement.
Provide proof of spending (receipts) if reapplying for a new cycle.
Include credit: “Produced with support from Y-CAM at DCIFF” and sponsors.
Have finished work considered for inclusion in the Y-CAM Film Festival.
Application Requirements
In the application form we ask applicants to provide:
Name, Age, Email, City & State, School.
Project Title and Type (film, doc, animation, podcast, etc.).
Project Description (150–300 words).
Estimated Budget Breakdown (5–8 key expenses).
Explanation of how funds will help (150–250 words).
Attachment Upload (optional script, still, clip).
Adult Producer/Mentor name and contact info.
Confirmation of eligibility and agreement to submit receipts if reapplying.
No fees. No long forms. Just your story and a clear plan.
Selection Criteria
Each application is judged for the following:
Clarity of vision: is the story compelling and specific?
Impact & voice: why you and why now?
Feasibility: is the plan realistic with $600?
Momentum: will this funding unlock progress?
Representation: we value diverse perspectives and access.
Sponsor a Grant
Help a young filmmaker take the next step. Your contribution directly funds Production Awards for youth creators.
Sponsorship levels:
$600
Production Sponsor
Your contribution will fund 1 youth filmmaker.
Recognition: Your name will be featured our new website. You will also receive event recognition, invitations to see produced work, and access to Y-CAM Film Festival screenings.
Our supporters receive visibility and other benefits:
Sponsors recognized on the brand new Y-CAM.org
Invitation to DCIFF Opening Night or related events
Option to view recipients’ projects and receive follow-up updates
Individual and organizational sponsors welcome
Are you interested in becoming a Supporter? Contact us at info@y-cam.org
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Y-CAM Production Grant structured?
YCAM awards grants three times a year. Each cycle lasts about six weeks, with two recipients per round — six total each year. Applications open November 17, 2025, close December 31, 2025, and the first recipients will be announced January 15, 2026. Future cycles follow in April, August, and December annually.
What can I use the Y-CAM Production Grant for?
You can use your grant funds for anything that helps complete your project — including filming, editing, post-production, sound, animation, equipment or service rentals, transportation, and paying collaborators directly tied to your film.
What can’t the grant cover?
We don’t fund meals, unrelated personal expenses, or non-media purchases.
How much funding can I receive?
Each recipient receives a $600 award per cycle.
Who decides which projects are funded?
A panel of filmmakers, educators, and YCAM team members reviews each application based on clarity, creativity, and feasibility.
How often can I apply for the Y-CAM Production Grant?
You may apply once per cycle and are welcome to reapply in future rounds with a new or revised proposal.
What if I’ve already received a grant?
Past recipients can reapply in a new cycle if they provide a brief progress update and receipts for their previous award.
Can teams apply?
Yes—name one lead applicant (director or producer) and include the names of your collaborators in your application.
Can I apply if I’m not in school?
You don’t need to be currently enrolled in school — just have a valid U.S. high school ID or equivalent, be between 13 and 19 years old, and be based in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Is there a fee to apply?
No fees at all. The application process is free and open to all eligible young filmmakers.
Need help applying? Do not hesitate to reach out for guidance about eligibility, timelines, or application forms → info@y-cam.org