Feature documentaries, docuseries (episodic) and shorts are eligible, including non-English language projects. Projects can be in the research, development, production or pre-research phase - and should align broadly with topics tackling systems of ethical consumption (food, animals, culture and climate).

Please do not use AI to help you write your application. We would prefer to see your notes (even if that means rough bullet points) than a refined AI generated paragraph.

If you do use AI for research, please ensure you verify all facts and rewrite the content so it reflects your personal connection to the story.

Additionally, we advise against using AI for participant research, as the most compelling subjects are usually found through fieldwork and archival research, not via an algorithm!

Initial applications are reviewed by our panel of industry experts, strategists and executives. They assess: Story Potential, Audience Appeal, Topic Originality, and Impact Strategy.

The Who Let The Docs Out team members will only initially rule out applications that are not eligible, and then compile the applications to present to the advisory committee to select the final 6 filmmakers.

While we would love to support everyone’s journey, please note that we are unfortunately unable to provide stipends for travel or accommodation at this time. We appreciate your understanding and are incredibly grateful for the effort you’re making to join us!

For Research: Funds can be used to support your own time and costs during the research phase, as well as essential access costs e.g. travel and fees for archival materials. (Travel only when remote options aren’t available). If your time is stretched, you could use part of the funding to hire support like a research assistant or producer.

Funds should not be spent on any type of production or shooting - bar certain exceptions (including undercover footage from research interviews to assess the characters, and/or for observing potential characters over an extended period of time). Most interviews should be held on Zoom/Meets, and only pick up a camera if it’s the only way to answer a research question.

Funds should be used for creating tangible assets and securing the project's foundation. Common uses for the Development funds include:

• Shooting: Hiring a DP/Sound Recordist

• Editing: Hiring an editor to cut a sizzle, teaser, or sample scene.

• Design: Graphic design for a professional Pitch Deck

• Legal: Legal fees for access agreements, life rights options, or initial archive licensing.

• Travel: Travel costs strictly related to shooting the sizzle reel or securing in-person access agreements.

We’ll follow up within 8-10 weeks to touch base on your journey and see how the funds are being utilised.

We’re here to provide troubleshooting support, help navigate any roadblocks, and gather a few work-in-progress updates that we can potentially feature within our community.

It depends on how you’re planning to join us.

If you intend to experience the full lineup of panels, networking, and events outside of the pitch, you will need to secure a ticket via the official Hollywood Climate Summit website.

However, if you are only attending specifically for your scheduled pitch and don't plan on visiting the rest of the summit, a ticket is not required. That said, we highly recommend joining the broader conversation if you can, as it’s an incredible opportunity to connect with the community!