Programs
Fiscal Sponsorship
For almost 30 years IDA's fiscal sponsorship program has been helping independent documentary projects of all types get funded, finished and seen.
Educational Seminars
We offer year-round series of classes, conversations, panels and workshops focusing on the art, craft and business of documentary filmmaking. Led by celebrated artists and renowned industry experts, IDA educational seminars provides experienced and aspiring filmmakers alike with insider insights and practical tips on essential topics ranging from cinematography and editing to fundraising and distribution.
Pare Lorentz Documentary Fund
The Pare Lorentz Documentary Fund supports full-length documentary films that reflect the spirit and nature of legendary documentary filmmaker Pare Lorentz's work.
The IDA Enterprise Documentary Fund
The IDA Enterprise Documentary Fund provides production and development funds to feature-length documentary films taking on in-depth explorations of original, contemporary stories and integrating journalistic practice into the filmmaking process.
Doc U Online
Doc U Online brings IDA's popular Doc U filmmaker development program to the web, allowing IDA members around the world to benefit from this year-round series of classes, conversations, panels and workshops led by renowned filmmakers and top industry professionals. Complete, high-quality videos of past events can be viewed online thanks to generous funding from The Harnsich Foundation and Lekha Singh.
DocuClub
DocuClub is a works-in-progress screening series offering the public and members of the film community advance access to new documentaries in progress, and the opportunity to provide feedback and to participate in behind-the-scenes conversation with filmmakers and creators.
Field Research
In addition to our year-round programming, IDA spearheads research that leads to a better understanding of the problems facing the field and solutions in fortifying the documentary ecosystem.
Traveling Initiatives
IDA travels its programming to different festivals and field gatherings to reach documentary filmmakers around the world.