The Montana Department of Commerce has announced the opening of the 2024 Big Sky Film Grant (BSFG), offering financial support to filmmakers creating projects that showcase Montana’s unique landscapes, culture, and talent. The grant program is open for applications until February 7, 2025 and is designed to foster growth and opportunities for Montana-based film and media productions.
Administered by the Montana Film Office, established in 1974, the BSFG aims to position the state as a premier media production location while supporting local filmmakers and attracting international talent. The program is funded through the Lodging Facility Use Tax, reflecting Montana’s commitment to leveraging its scenic and cultural assets for creative industries.
“The Big Sky Film Grant helps filmmakers connect with local communities and craft documentaries, animations, short films, and feature productions that celebrate Montana,” said Allison Whitmer, Montana Film Commissioner. “Projects supported by this grant have received accolades at some of the world’s most prestigious festivals, including Cannes, Sundance, Tribeca, and SXSW.”
Over the years, the program has supported both Montana residents and filmmakers from across the globe, elevating the state’s reputation in the film industry.
Categories and Eligibility
The BSFG offers awards across four main categories:
- Feature Film and TV
- For Montana-based productions of feature-length films, television series, or limited series.
- Minimum spending requirement of $350,000 within Montana.
- Resident Filmmaker – Feature Film and TV
- Designed for Montana resident filmmakers working on feature-length projects.
- Awards range from $1,000 to $100,000 per project, with proof of Montana residency required.
- Short-Form Content
- For pilot episodes, short narratives, documentaries, animations, or other projects under 60 minutes.
- Applicable to productions with budgets below $350,000.
- Resident Filmmaker – Short-Form Content
- Specifically for Montana-based filmmakers creating short-form content such as narratives, pilot episodes, documentaries, animations, or Montana-centric stories.
- Awards range from $1,000 to $50,000 per project.
The BSFG program has helped make Montana a sought-after destination for film production. By supporting projects across a range of formats and budgets, it continues to attract both emerging and established filmmakers who leverage the state’s iconic settings and talented workforce.
