Ask Programming: Recent Questions from Filmmakers

ITVS programming staff answer questions from filmmakers about the funding process:

Q: My proposal was declined from the last round of Open Call. Can I apply to LINCS with the same project?

A. Yes, you may apply for LINCS with the same project. The application and evaluation processes for the two initiatives are distinct and a declination in one initiative does not affect your chances in the other. There are differences between the initiatives. The most notable is that the LINCS initiative requires a producer and public television station partnership while Open Call does not. Please read the full guidelines to see if your project is a good fit for LINCS.

Q: I have had communications with two stations who are interested in supporting my proposal for LINCS this year. Can I partner with both?

A. Yes, you can partner with more than one public television station for the LINCS initiative. Letters of Agreement with each station must be negotiated and included with the proposal materials. These letters should make clear how the required LINCS partnership responsibilities are divided up among the partnering stations. You can also use the combined in-kind from both stations in your matching funds request from LINCS (up to $100,00).

Q: Would partnering with a station in a top market help my chances of getting LINCS funding?

A. No, partnering with a station in a top market is not a guarantee of funding. LINCS partner stations represent small to large markets all across the country. Of stations partnering with LINCS funded programs in the last two years, 56 percent were from a top-50 market and 44 percent were from smaller markets.

A station’s market is not a factor in the evaluation of a LINCS proposal. Evaluators do take into consideration the letter of agreement between the producer and the station partner. What interest does the station have in this project? What resources and support will it commit? These are more important factors when reviewing the strength of the station-producer partnership.

Want to know more about ITVS policies and procedures for funding? Read past entries of Ask Programming >>

Tags: film resources, filmmaking, funding, LINCS, PBS