RUSSO BROTHERS ITALIAN AMERICAN FILMMAKER FORUM (RBIAFF) - FELLOWSHIP APPLICATIONS OPEN FEBRUARY 18, 2026
(Photo Courtesy of AGBO: Anthony Russo, Angela Russo-Otstot, Joe Russo)
The Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum (RBIAFF), presented by the AGBO Foundation in collaboration with the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA), invites filmmakers to apply for the 2026 RBIAFF Fellowship, an annual initiative supporting original short films that explore the Italian American experience.
Applications open February 18, 2026, and the fellowship welcomes filmmakers interested in telling stories rooted in Italian American culture, language, history, land, and identity. Through this program, RBIAFF aims to elevate authentic voices and celebrate the richness and diversity of Italian American storytelling on screen.
APPLICATION:
Each application must include a 30-second to 3-minute pitch video that effectively conveys your idea and skills, along with a bio and headshot, resume, personal statement reflecting your connection to the Italian American community, a logline, a synopsis, and a completed questionnaire with project details.
Submissions may be documentary, narrative, fiction, or nonfiction in format (animation is also accepted). Applicants from all nationalities and backgrounds are encouraged to apply and bring their unique perspective to Italian American storytelling rooted in culture, language, history, land, or identity.
All applications must be submitted through FilmFreeway (a free account is required). Applicants may submit one project only.
GRANTS & PRIZES:
From the applicant pool, five filmmakers will be selected to receive $10,000 production grants to create their short films, based on the idea presented in their sizzle reel, over the course of several months.
One filmmaker will ultimately be awarded the top prize, selected by a judging committee composed of the AGBO creative team and ISDA leadership, including Anthony Russo and Joe Russo, Angela Russo-Otstot, and ISDA National President Basil Russo. The top recipient will receive an additional $10,000 grant and admission into the AGBO Storytellers Collective, AGBO’s alumni network offering mentorship and industry guidance.
To date, we have proudly awarded over $450,000 in RBIAFF grants, aiding 52 passionate filmmakers to realize their creative visions
JUDGING:
Entries will be evaluated by a committee of AGBO executives and the national leadership of the ISDA, ensuring a thorough and fair assessment process.
DEADLINE:
Applications open February 18, 2026. Submissions must be received by March 18, 2026 at 11:59pm PT on FilmFreeway.com
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