Submit

Combining KQED's commitment to diverse voices and viewpoints with our belief in the power of independent film, KQED has created a showcase for outstanding documentaries about the Golden State. Truly CA: Our State, Our Stories can be seen both on television and on the web.

Every year, KQED looks to the independent film community to find  feature-length or short documentaries that explore various facets of California life. After a competitive review process, selected films will receive packaging, closed captioning, promotion, and a modest licensing fee.

Submission Deadline: We have a rolling deadline for submissions but to be considered for Season 14, your application must be received by December 1st, 2018.

Broadcast of our 14th Season is currently scheduled starting in June, 2019

Eligibility Requirements

We consider a broad range of topics and styles, from political and social issues to more personal or experimental works. Above all, we're looking for well-crafted stories that feature compelling characters -- stories that are provocative, passionate and unforgettable.

Non-fiction: Only documentary films will be considered. No narrative films or performance pieces.

Independents only: Filmmakers must own the copyright to their films and have artistic, editorial and budgetary control.

Completed or nearly-completed works: We accept fine cuts and festival versions. Filmmakers must be willing to edit to accommodate broadcast length if necessary. Filmmakers must be able to commit to on-lining, packaging and broadcasting their films within two to six months of being accepted to the series.

Length: Feature-length films should be as close to an hour as possible, but submission between 40 - 90 minutes will be considered. Selected films must be edited to a PBS hour (52 - 54 minutes).  This editing is performed by the filmmaker and not covered by Truly CA. Short film submissions can be any length under 30 minutes.

Rights and releases: Submitted works must have signed appearance releases for everyone appearing in the film, and licenses for all music, photos and acquired footage. If your film is selected, a complete production binder with releases and licenses will be required.

Format: Films can be shot on any format, including all film formats and SD, miniDV, DVCam, film, Betacam, HDV, and HDCam. However, HD is preferred and a digital file must be available.

Funding restrictions: All projects must comply with PBS funding and underwriting guidelines, which can be found at PBS.

Prior broadcasts: Films that have aired on other PBS stations or have current or prior distribution deals in place are still eligible to submit as long as they are free to grant KQED the rights outlined below.

How to Submit

Deadline: We have a rolling deadline for submissions but to be considered for Season 14, your application must be received by December 1st, 2018.

Fee: None.

Submit Electronically: Fill out a form at Film Freeway.

 

 

If you have questions about the eligibility of your film or the submission process, please email AHenderson@kqed.org.

 Indie Review- ***Coming Soon***