The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) and acclaimed Italian producer Aurelio De Laurentiis are now accepting applications for the inaugural NIAF/De Laurentiis Film Prizes. Established in 2023, this annual grant program provides critical funding and mentorship opportunities to emerging filmmakers looking to tell compelling stories about Italian and Italian American experiences.

"We are excited to finally launch the application process for these transformative film prizes," said NIAF President Robert Allegrini. "In partnership with the legendary Aurelio De Laurentiis, we are eager to discover the next generation of creative talents ready to bring these culturally resonant stories to life on screen."

The NIAF/De Laurentiis Film Prizes will award five talented applicants with a $10,000 production grant. Grantees can utilize the funding to produce short documentary, narrative, fiction, and non-fiction films that capture the richness of Italian or Italian American heritage and culture.

The five award-winning films will premiere at the NIAF 50th Anniversary Gala in Washington D.C., in October 2025. The best overall film will be announced at the Gala dinner, where the filmmaker will receive an additional $10,000 prize and an exclusive mentorship opportunity with Aurelio De Laurentiis and his team.

"NIAF is looking forward to discovering the creative and visionary projects that will arise from this program," added Allegrini. "We aim to propel promising filmmakers on their path to cinematic success."

Applications for the 2024 NIAF/De Laurentiis Film Prizes are open through March 1, 2024. Full eligibility criteria, guidelines, and the online application can be found at NIAF.org. Filmmakers worldwide are encouraged to apply.