Science New Wave Fund III
THIRD YEAR FUNDING CYCLE / Opens in February 2026
presented by The Brandt Jackson Foundation & Things in Motion.
More details and application guidelines for the third cycle will be shared as we approach the launch date. In the meantime, please review the FAQs below. If you still have questions, contact us at sciencenewwave@labocine.com.
The Science New Wave Fund is an initiative that supports singular cinematic visions, offering unique perspectives on science’s place in cultural discourse. It celebrates bold storytelling and fosters daring interdisciplinary collaborations where film and science converge in singular, research-driven and compelling ways.
The Science New Wave Fund is a Science New Wave initiative that was launched in 2022 with an initial grant from Warner Bros. Discovery. Since then, it has evolved through several phases and formats. The SNW Fund is now presented by The Brandt Jackson Foundation , in partnership with its sister production company Things in Motion.
The SNW Fund is continuously evolving. For its third cycle, the SNW Fund will support film projects of all forms and scales—from shorts to features—including documentary, fiction, hybrid works, performance, research projects, and more. We’ve supported more than 20 projects over these last few years.
Discover on Labocine the projects and teams awarded the SNW Fund in Cycle I (2022) + Cycle II (2024).
Round 1: Proposal
Submit your proposal by completing the form. Deadline: May 1.
Round 2: Field Notes
Selected applicants will be invited to submit additional materials (Field Notes) in June.
Round 3: Interviews
Interviews with shortlisted applicants will take place in July–August.
Round 4: Decision
Final selections will be announced in September, around the time of the 19th Annual Science New Wave festival lineup.
To be eligible to apply for the Science New Wave Fund, applicants must hold an active Science New Wave Luminary Membership (Yearly subscription). We encourage you to join earlier than later. Learn more about the SNW Luminary Benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of films are eligible to apply?
The Science New Wave Fund supports singular film projects from around the world that expand how science enters cultural and cinematic discourse through adventurous, interdisciplinary collaboration. Projects may be of any length, format, origin, or genre, including fiction, documentary, animation, music videos, VR/AR, games and immersive experiences, performance, installation, sonic works, data visualization, and hybrid or cross-disciplinary forms.
Does my film need to be of a specific form, theme, or length?
There is no required form, theme, or length. We are interested in projects that embody the spirit of the Science New Wave—diversity, experimentation, bold storytelling, and a distinctive approach to translating scientific thought into cinematic form. To learn more, we encourage applicants to review the Science New Wave Manifesto and explore projects supported in previous cycles.
How much funding is available?
For this cycle, we do not set a fixed funding amount. Each project is evaluated individually based on its scope and needs. Applicants are encouraged to have additional sources of support in place and not rely solely on the Science New Wave Fund unless clearly justified. Please note that awarded amounts may differ from requested amounts depending on available funds and overall allocation.
At what stage should my film be?
Projects at any stage are eligible, including research, development, production, post-production, and distribution. We do ask that there be a clear sense of timeline and objectives, even if these evolve over time. We also value being kept informed as projects move through their various stages of making.
My film concept is in an early stage and I don’t want it public. Is that okay?
Labocine encourages openness and process-sharing, but we understand that certain projects may require discretion. If you have specific concerns, please contact us. Field Notes (requested in Round 2) that include sensitive materials, such as teasers or press kits, can be kept fully private and password-protected.
What is required if support is granted?
If support is awarded, funded projects must include clear credit acknowledgements for the Fund’s presenting partners and the Science New Wave in the film credits and on all relevant film pages. We also ask that supported filmmakers keep us informed as the project is completed and released. Labocine and the Science New Wave can play an active role in distribution, outreach, and visibility. Supported projects are strongly encouraged to submit to the annual Science New Wave Film Festival and to showcase the work on Labocine.
I applied for the Fund in the past and was not selected. Can I reapply?
Yes. Applicants who have not previously received support from the Science New Wave Fund may reapply with the same project. Please indicate that you have applied before and briefly describe how the project has evolved since your previous application. If a project has already received Science New Wave Fund support, it is not eligible for additional funding. However, applicants may apply again with a different project.
Why is a Science New Wave Luminary Membership on Labocine required to apply?
The Science New Wave Fund exists within a self-sustaining ecosystem built on shared commitment, participation, and exchange. The annual Luminary Membership ($30 per year) reflects engagement with the movement—not simply eligibility for funding. Your support helps keep the fund alive and contributes to our curatorial independence. We also value applicants who participate in the Science New Wave across Labocine’s curated programs, annual film festival, and initiatives such as Symbiosis, maintain an active Habitat profile, and remain involved over time.
If your question is not addressed in these FAQs, please contact us at sciencenewwave@labocine.com.
