Story perspectives

Sundance Film Festival Grants $120K for Social Justice Films

1/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Subject Matter will award $120,000 in grants at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival to support nonprofits and films addressing urgent social issues.
Sharon Liese’s film “Seized” and the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press will each receive $30,000.
Other grants include Dawn Porter’s “When A Witness Recants,” which focuses on wrongful imprisonment, and Gideon’s Promise.
A public panel discussion on systemic issues in law enforcement will be held on Jan. 26, moderated by Fabio Bertoni.
Subject Matter will match audience donations to the nonprofits up to $5,000.

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Story summary

Subject Matter will award $120,000 in grants at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival to support nonprofits and films addressing urgent social issues.
Sharon Liese’s film “Seized” and the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press will each receive $30,000.
Other grants include Dawn Porter’s “When A Witness Recants,” which focuses on wrongful imprisonment, and Gideon’s Promise.
A public panel discussion on systemic issues in law enforcement will be held on Jan. 26, moderated by Fabio Bertoni.
Subject Matter will match audience donations to the nonprofits up to $5,000.