More than $200,000 in funding will be awarded to independent producers or entities producing television, film or video programming that are currently pursuing projects that tell authentic, well-told stories about the Pacific and what it means to be a Pacific Islander. Several awards of up to $15,000 will go to projects in the R&D stage, while larger awards of up to $50,000 to those in the production and completion stages.

PIC is committed to "telling the stories of the Pacific" for national public television and hopes to accomplish this by nurturing and supporting the Pacific Islander filmmaking community through this annual open call, now in its 15th year. "The Media Fund Open Call is a way for producers to join the PIC 'ohana," said executive director Ruth Bolan. "Even if the project is not selected for funding this cycle, we work with the applicants to refine their application so they can apply to PIC again, and can apply for money from other sources. At PIC we know that the stories from the Pacific can change the world. We are committed to being a valuable resource for our producers."

Proposals will be reviewed by an independent review panel consisting of cultural experts, academics, national television programmers, and independent producers. Effectual proposals will be comprised of a compelling story, concept or treatment; great storytelling; a good hook; an experienced production team; a reasonable, factual budget; and a solid sample video.

Once a filmmaker has received funding from PIC's Media Fund, he/she then has access to other PIC resources, including travel grants, scholarships and workshops. With the average cost for one hour of programming running anywhere from $350,000 to $1.5 million, a long and successful relationship with organizations such as PIC becomes essential for the achievement of most Pacific Island films.

"Both of my films, 'American Aloha: Hula Beyond Hawaii' and 'Na Kamalei: The Men of Hula,' would not have been possible without production funding from Pacific Islanders in Communications. Beyond the financial support for my documentaries, PIC is integral in assisting with outreach, education, and community engagement for public television audiences which make a broadcast truly successful," said, Lisette Marie Flanary, a past recipient of funding from Pacific Islanders in Communications.

Pacific Islanders and non-Pacific Islanders are encouraged to apply provided proposed films tell an accurate, authentic story of the Pacific and the Pacific Islander experience. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and be citizens or legal residents of the United States or its territories.

All applications must be received no later than Friday, July 13, 2007 at 5:30 p.m.