In an effort to contribute to filmmaker pathways and to develop environmental filmmaking talent, Amberjack Films and Schoolyard Films, in partnership with Jackson Wild, have created a program of funded scholarship films, where early-stage filmmakers are sponsored to make a short 10 to 20 minute film on a nature or environmental story wherever they come from in the world. 

The ambition is to support young filmmakers and give them the basic financial support to direct and produce a film, mentor them through the editorial process, and encourage them to distribute their film to best effect, both to maximize audience and to create local impact through screenings and school access to their films. These films will amplify the voices of young filmmakers around the world, spreading talent and skills while showcasing authentic voices irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or disability.

To learn more about this opportunity, please visit: https://www.jacksonwild.org/my-world-film-grant

Deadline: Friday, June 20 at 11:59 pm MDT

The Jackson Wild Media Lab (JWML) is a competitive, fully funded, and intensive nine-day filmmaking workshop created for emerging filmmakers and science communicators. The workshop brings together early-career media makers, conservationists, and scientists to collaborate on science and conservation media projects under the guidance of world-class mentors and instructors.

This year, we are focusing on a North American (USA, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean) applicant pool. If you’re located outside of North America, we encourage you to explore other Partner Labs and join The Collective for the latest updates on additional global opportunities.

Applicants should expect to lift equipment (cameras, tripods, lighting gear, etc) and walk up to 2km or more, but accommodations can be made if necessary. Let the Jackson Wild Media Lab team know of any concerns or limitations during the application process.

APPLICATIONS OPEN: Early April

DEADLINE: MAY 26, 2025

NOTIFIED BY: JULY 7, 2025

Please email medialab@jacksonwild.org with any questions.

Please complete the application form to apply to serve as a preliminary judge for the 2025 Jackson Wild Media Awards. 

First round judging assignments will run from May 22nd to mid-June with the opportunity to extend through July for our second round judging. Preliminary judging assignments are reviewed on the Submittable platform. The greatest need is for judges willing to review 20 hours of films over the course of approximately 4 weeks throughout the months of May & June. If you have any questions about judging please contact: Scarlett@jacksonwild.org. 

Thank you for your interest in the 2025 Jackson Wild Media Awards. Considered the highest bar of achievement in natural history filmmaking, the Jackson Wild Media Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in nature, science, and conservation storytelling.
 

Film Submission Guidelines:

Any film completed after June 1st, 2024 prominently featuring science, wildlife or nature conservation is eligible to enter. Submissions in all languages are welcomed, although programs in a language other than English must be subtitled in English for presentation to the judges. For more information please review the 2025 JWMA Submission Guidelines.
 

Important Dates:

• Regular Deadline May 15th
• Late Entry deadline June 1st (Late fees apply)
• Finalists will be announced in August
• Winners will be announced at the Media Awards Gala on October 2nd 2025 in Jackson, Wyoming.