Doc Lab

The JFI Doc Lab (originally founded in 2013 as the JFI Filmmakers in Residence program) is the only U.S.-based fellowship dedicated to the incubation of feature-length Jewish documentaries. The year-long, primarily virtual program accepts a small number of Fellows and provides them with the tools and resources needed to share essential and untold stories about Jewish culture, life, and identity.

The Doc Lab is a cornerstone of JFI's Artist Development programs, which help build a global community of independent filmmakers deepening their films' connections to Jewish themes and values, and navigating the complex film exhibition and distribution landscape, through practical and conceptual learnings. The Lab has become increasingly recognized for the excellence, innovation, and diversity of films with supported projects having premiered at leading film festivals worldwide and securing national and international distribution deals.

Doc Lab Fellows: 

• Participate in monthly cohort meetings.
• Attend capacity-enhancing workshops with key industry professionals.
• Consult with JFI staff on industry best practices in marketing, fundraising, production, and exhibition.
• Attend an in-person convening in July at the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival.
• Refine their project pitches through mentorship and Pitch + Kvell.

Participant Benefits:

• Access to all JFI programs and events during the yearlong Lab.
• A travel stipend toward the expense of attending the SFJFF in-person conevening in July.
• Visibility in JFI promotional materials throughout their project’s life.
• Access to the Ninth Street Independent Film Center's on-site screening room.

The JFI Doc Lab is open to all feature documentaries that thoughtfully consider Jewish history, life, culture, and identity that have footage to show, be it a trailer, scene, or work sample. We welcome eligible applications from all communities. Filmmakers can participate in the Lab from any country or state, as long as they can commit to attending virtual meetings and workshops programmed at Pacific Time in the U.S.