Homegrown Filmmaking • Oklahoma
Your first film starts here.
The Homegrown Filmmaking First-Time Filmmaker Grant gives an Oklahoma filmmaker three days of free use of our full production trailer and its included grip, lighting, and electric equipment.
Every filmmaker starts somewhere. We want more Oklahoma filmmakers to have the equipment and support to take that first step. Bring your story, a thoughtful production plan, and the drive to make it happen.
What the grant includes
- Three consecutive production days with Homegrown’s full production trailer and its standard grip, lighting, and electric package.
- A preproduction consultation to discuss your equipment needs and production plan.
- A required equipment checkout and orientation before filming.
The included inventory, pickup and return arrangements, and reservation dates will be confirmed in writing. This is an equipment grant, not a cash award. Crew, insurance, transportation, fuel, expendables, permits, locations, and other production expenses are not included unless expressly stated in the award agreement. Required deposits and additional costs will be disclosed before acceptance.
Who can apply
- Oklahoma residents who are at least 18 years old.
- Directors or co-directors making their first independent short or feature film.
- Projects using the grant-supported equipment entirely within Oklahoma.
- Filmmakers with a realistic plan to use three consecutive production days and arrange the remaining crew, resources, insurance, and permissions.
What does “first-time” mean?
You have not previously completed an independently produced narrative, documentary, or experimental film as director or co-director outside a class assignment or personal practice project. School projects, phone-shot exercises, social media videos, and experience in other crew roles do not disqualify you. Each co-director must meet this first-time requirement.
You do not need a film degree, industry connections, or a polished reel. Students may apply for projects outside required coursework. Commercials, client work, and commissioned promotional videos are not eligible.
Feature films are welcome even if three days cover only part of the shoot. Explain how the awarded days fit into your larger production plan.
How we choose a recipient
We are looking for a compelling idea and a practical plan to bring it to life. The review criteria are:
- 35% — Story and creative vision: your idea and why you want to make it.
- 30% — Feasibility and readiness: a realistic schedule, budget, crew, and safety plan.
- 25% — Impact of the grant: how equipment access helps your project move forward.
- 10% — Connection to Oklahoma: the people, places, or filmmaking opportunities involved.
Prior industry connections and polished work samples are not required.
Before you apply
Prepare a script or treatment, a simple production budget, and a preliminary three-day shooting schedule. The application accepts links to these materials. Check that reviewers can open them.
A lookbook, mood board, storyboard, visual references, and previous work samples are optional. There are no suggested word limits in the application; clear answers and bullet points are welcome.
The application
Tell us about yourself, your film, and how you would use the trailer. Read the grant terms and conditions before submitting.
Grant terms and conditions
The terms cover eligibility, scheduling, equipment care, insurance, costs outside the grant, cancellation, ownership, credit, and application materials.
A few common questions
Can I apply without a reel?
Yes. Previous work samples are optional. Tell us about your idea and how you plan to make it.
Can I use the grant for a feature film?
Yes. Short and feature films are eligible. The equipment award covers three consecutive production days, even if the project needs more time.
Does the grant cover every production expense?
No. It waives rental charges for the approved trailer and equipment package. Other production expenses remain the recipient’s responsibility unless included in writing.
Can I reserve my preferred dates now?
Submitting an application does not reserve equipment. Dates are subject to availability and written confirmation after selection.
Questions? homegrownfilmmaking@gmail.com