Are You Ready for BPM’s Open Call?
by Denise Greene
I always look forward to the end of summer because for me and the rest of the BPM programming team it signals the start of a new year. September is when we issue BPM’s Open Call. This year, the submissions portal will open on Sept. 3 and accept applications until Sept. 30.
We are eager to identify applicants working in a range of formats, styles, and subject matter,. All projects should be suitable for public media distribution.
If you are working on a broadcast documentary project (60+ mins), know that we welcome compelling, nuanced stories that add the point of view, experiences and concerns of Black people to the larger public discourse. Ideally, these stories will help shape the critical discussions, actions and policies that affect us the most.
Info Sessions & Office Hours
Not sure how to submit? Then attend our Open Call information session this evening, Aug. 27, at 6 p.m. BPM staff will be on hand to walk you through the process and answer your questions.
Can’t make the info session? Don’t fret. We’re recording it and will post it on the Open Call page of our website tomorrow (Aug. 28). We’re also hosting two days of Office Hours: Thurs., Sept. 12, and Tues., Sept 24. You can register for these now by selecting the buttons below.
Ultimately, five projects will be selected to receive $5K cash awards and invitations to participate in our new Talent Development program and the 2025 PitchBLACK Forum and Awards program. The awardees will be announced in December. PitchBLACK participants will compete for up to $150K in project funding and distribution support next spring.
I hope this news has you ready to celebrate with BPM, too. We look forward to hearing from all of you who are makers!
— Greene is director of programs at Black Public Media
