Stay in L.A. Documentary Grant Triples Funding to Support Local Stories

A Los Angeles documentary grant has just tripled its support. The Stay in L.A. Documentary Development Grant selected three projects instead of one. This happened on Thursday. The move underscores a push to keep film production local.

The grant was created by the company All Facts. It aims to counteract the trend of productions leaving California. The committee was overwhelmed by the number of high-quality submissions. They decided to split the $30,000 award three ways.

Three Diverse Projects Win $10,000 Each

Each winning filmmaker will receive $10,000 for development. The funds aim to help bring their uniquely Los Angeles stories to life. According to the grant committee, the decision highlights the city’s vibrant creative energy.

One project is an untitled true crime film from veteran producer Adam Saltzberg. It investigates the fall of a prominent local dynasty. The subject is described as a beloved L.A. institution with dark secrets.

Another winner is Mobolaji Olambiwonnu’s The Village on My Block. It tells the story of St. Elmo Village, a Mid-City arts community. This community was founded by two Black men in the 1960s.

The third film is Mackenzie Rohan’s Stepping Out of the Background. It follows five background actors preparing for their own annual awards show. The documentary highlights the unseen artistry of Hollywood‘s extras.

Grant Fuels “Stay in L.A.” Movement Amid Production Slump

The grant is a direct response to a decline in local production. Many film and TV projects have relocated to other states or countries for tax incentives. The “Stay in L.A.” movement encourages companies to film locally and hire area crews.

All Facts co-founder Adam Bhala Lough praised the submissions. He said the selected projects prove why L.A. remains a documentary hub. Investing in these local storytellers is now more critical than ever.

The initiative provides crucial funding at the early development stage. This support can help filmmakers secure additional financing and move into production. It is a tangible step toward sustaining the city’s nonfiction filmmaking ecosystem.

This expanded grant directly invests in the heart of Los Angeles storytelling. It provides essential fuel for documentaries that might otherwise go untold. The “Stay in L.A.” movement gains real momentum through this significant commitment to local artists.

Dropping this nugget your way-

What is the Stay in L.A. Documentary Development Grant?

The grant is a $30,000 fund created by All Facts to support documentary films made in Los Angeles. It was recently split among three projects instead of one. The goal is to encourage local production and storytelling.

Which films won the grant money?

Three films won: an untitled true crime project by Adam Saltzberg, *The Village on My Block* by Mobolaji Olambiwonnu, and *Stepping Out of the Background* by Mackenzie Rohan. Each received a $10,000 development award.

Why is there a “Stay in L.A.” movement?

Many film and TV productions have left California for cheaper locations. The movement encourages companies to keep production in the Los Angeles area. This supports local jobs and the regional economy.

Who organized this documentary grant?

The grant was originated by the Los Angeles-based documentary company All Facts. The selection committee includes industry professionals dedicated to local filmmaking.

What is the subject of *The Village on My Block*?

It documents the history of St. Elmo Village, an arts community in Mid-City Los Angeles. The community was founded in the 1960s and remains active today with workshops and festivals.