TPT is interested in gathering a diverse mosaic of storytelling and/or outreach ideas that reflect on our state’s past as we look forward to a shared future and to commemorate America’s semiquincentennial. As we consider the proposals, we will focus on those that explore issues that are especially important to Minnesota and the Midwest region more broadly.
TPT anticipates offering up to five research and development (R&D) grants for ideas that center on multiplatform, short and long-form non-fiction documentaries; episodic series; scripted, narrative, digital features; podcasts; and educational and children’s programming.
What should my proposal include?
Proposals should include the name of all key talent/production company(ies) involved, a brief project description and working title, intended audience, genre and intended distribution format(s).
What does a research and development (R&D) grant involve?
TPT intends to award up to 5 grants of $10,000 each. For all selected proposals that receive an R&D grant, applicants will enter into an agreement with TPT, and TPT will have the exclusive right for three (3) years to develop and produce any projects selected for R&D funding working with the selected applicant(s). Selection for R&D funding does not guarantee support for content creation, programming, or other commitments.
In exchange for the $10,000 in R&D funds, deliverables will include:
- Proposal, treatment, project deck (non-fiction) or script (fiction)
- Submitted work samples in progress
- List of any proposed production talent and respective bios
- Proposed production timeline and production budget
- Audience targets and media platform(s) proposed
- A community engagement and outreach plan
What types of activities can the R&D grant fund?
Eligible R&D activities and expenses include the following:
- Research
- Clearance of life story rights or other rights necessary to initiate production
- Development of the concept
- Preliminary filming, if necessary, prior to the commencement of principle photography
- Completion and submission of a full production budget and final treatment
The R&D maximum award for the above activities, expenses and deliverables is $10,000.
If I receive an R&D grant from TPT, when will I be notified?
Anyone who submits a proposal will receive confirmation of receipt from TPT and will also receive a notification of their application’s status of consideration within 8-12 weeks. A small group of finalists may be asked to submit additional materials for a feasibility review. Decisions are in TPT’s sole discretion and are final and may not be appealed. Funded programs will be notified in July 2024, and R&D agreements will need to be signed no later than September 2024.
What are the eligibility requirements for submitting a proposal?
Applicant eligibility includes the following:
- Applicants residing/incorporated in Minnesota not required but preferred
- Applicant must be at least 18 years of age, be citizens or legal residents of the United States or its territories, and have previous film or television experience demonstrated by detailed personnel bios or resumes
- Only one application may be submitted per applicant, and the applicant may not make submissions for any additional projects
- Applicants must agree to the concept’s exclusivity during the TPT rights period
- Successful applicants must meet all other mandatory terms and conditions outlined in the TPT production agreement
The following list of details are ineligible for consideration:
- Filmmakers or production entities that are foreign based, owned or controlled
- Industrial, promotional, advocacy or political projects
- Projects for which the exclusive domestic television broadcast rights are not available
- Projects with a primarily commercial interest
Does TPT have editorial standards?
Yes, our editorial standards align with those developed by PBS and can be reviewed here: www.pbs.org/standards.
How will TPT approach the selection process?
TPT is committed to thoughtfully reviewing each and every submission that is entered into this open call for ideas. An internal team of key stakeholders and content leaders will evaluate the proposals based on the submission requirements and alignment with TPT’s mission to explore a diverse mix of stories and/or outreach ideas.
Are TPT employees eligible?
Yes, TPT employees are eligible to submit proposals for The 250th Project R&D grants.
If my proposal is selected for an R&D grant, will TPT produce my project?
If your proposal receives an R&D grant and all deliverables are met, then TPT will have the exclusive right for up to three years to develop and produce the project. Selection for R&D funding does not guarantee support for content creation, programming or other commitments.
If I have additional questions, who should I contact?
If you have additional questions about the proposal submission process or requirements, please email: [email protected]
