Designed for early-career filmmakers who have produced or directed at least 2 short films, PBS Ignite Filmmakers is one of two programs that provide filmmakers and content creators with the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to public media. To learn about the PBS Accelerator Fellowship, our program for mid-career producers and editors, click here. 

OVERVIEW

PBS provides a service to all Americans by presenting programs that share a wide variety of perspectives and lived experiences. We also strive to elevate talented individuals from a variety of backgrounds to innovate and deliver on our mission.

The PBS Ignite Filmmakers Program under its Creative Voices Initiative is a hybrid 12-month program for up to 10 early-career filmmakers who have experienced barriers to entering the media industry. Filmmakers have been credited as producer or director on at least 2 short or feature documentary films, or unscripted / non-fiction films that have been distributed publicly through a third party (accepted at a film festival, streaming/television broadcast or public event). It is an opportunity for filmmakers to spend a year developing their career path and exploring the process of content production for public media. Whether the filmmakers have a current project underway or are looking to start a new one, this program provides tools to help support participants’ professional path forward. 
 

PBS Ignite Filmmakers Program offers:  

Workshops: Filmmakers meet monthly for virtual workshops delivered by seasoned professionals to further equip the participants with the necessary skills to advance their careers in public media. Topics may include crafting treatments and proposals, pitching, budgeting, funding strategies, story development, licensing, distribution, and standards & practices. Filmmakers are given and must complete workshop assignments over the course of the program.

Mentorship: Each participant receives one-on-one mentorship from professionals with rich experience in public media who will share insights and provide guidance to help mentees advance toward their filmmaking goals.  

Networking: PBS Ignite provides opportunities to network with public media senior leadership and executives through both virtual and in-person sessions.

Cohort Support: Participants will be a part of monthly, virtual facilitated cohort meetings designed to build connections, engagement, and empowerment. 

In-person gatherings:   The Ignite Program convenes at the PBS Annual Meeting May 19 - 21, 2025, which takes place in Atlanta. Participants of the Program receive complimentary access, participation in closed meetings with PBS leadership and staff, a customized session itinerary and networking mixers. Roundtrip travel and accommodation are provided by PBS. There are other opportunities for gatherings throughout the year.

Stipend:  Those selected will receive $10,000 for their participation to be distributed over the course of the 12-month Program.

PBS Episode Pitch & Possible Production:  During the latter part of the program, filmmakers pitch an episode concept for consideration for one of the pre-selected PBS Digital Studios series. If the pitch is accepted, the participant will have the opportunity to produce/direct the episode under the direction of the show's production team.

Time Commitment: Participants should be prepared to spend up to 12 hours per month on meetings, assignments, and other activities.

The application period for the 2025 – 2026 PBS Ignite Filmmakers Program is now closed. 

Have questions? PBSCreativeVoices@pbs.org