Created in memory of Melissa Rucker, a former Madison Wells producer and executive known for championing new talent and underrepresented voices, The Melissa Rucker Finishing Fund supports U.S.-based women and non-binary filmmakers completing narrative and documentary projects in both short and feature formats.

Built on a shared belief in the power of diverse storytelling, the fund brings together Madison Wells Forward, the philanthropic arm of Madison Wells, and The Chimaera Project to champion women and non-binary filmmakers and help bring bold new stories to audiences.

Designed for films in post-production, the fund supports bold, original projects while addressing the barriers that women and non-binary filmmakers often face throughout their careers—particularly those navigating the industry at mid-career and beyond. In addition to financial backing, the program provides mentorship and hands-on support throughout the entire process, from post-production through release. The goal is simple: to help filmmakers complete their work and get it out into the world.

Awards & Prizes

• Up to $6,000 awarded to selected Feature-Length Narrative or Documentary films (over 40 minutes)
• Up to $2,500 awarded to selected Short-Form Narrative or Documentary films (40 minutes or under)

In addition to financial support, selected films may receive promotion through The Chimaera Project, opportunities for screenings, and connections to industry resources.

We invest in both the success of the film and the filmmaker. All awardees become members of The Chimaera Project Alumni Community, gaining access to ongoing resources, visibility, and peer support.

Rules & Terms


• The director must identify as a woman or non-binary filmmaker
• The director must be 40 years of age or older, or the majority of crew must be over 40
• The project must be a narrative or documentary film, short or feature-length
• At least 90% of principal photography must be completed
• A rough cut must be available at the time of application
• Applicants must provide a secure link to the rough cut
• Applicants must provide an anticipated project completion date
• All submissions must be made via FilmFreeway
• A $25 submission fee is required at the time of application

Second-Round Materials (If Selected)

Filmmakers advancing to the second round will be asked to provide:
• The number of women and non-binary individuals in cast and crew
• A project budget and a clear plan for how finishing funds will be used
Fee Waivers

Alumni of The Chimaera Project programs — including TO.GET.HER, SUPPORT.HER, IN HER DIRECTION, and Fiscal Sponsor Partners — are eligible for a free entry waiver.
To request a waiver code, email: tcpfilmsubmissions@gmail.com

Additional Notes
All submissions will be added to The Chimaera Project mailing list for future program announcements and events.

About the Partnership
The Melissa Rucker Big Picture Fellowship Finishing Fund is made possible through a partnership with Madison Wells Forward, whose mission is to amplify local programs that transform communities through education, awareness, and social action.
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  • Carrie Lederer

    Receiving the To.Get.Her Finishing Funds from The Chimaera Project has been a truly empowering experience. As a filmmaker committed to bringing underrepresented stories to life, I’m incredibly thankful for their support. What made this opportunity especially meaningful was feeling seen as a director with a unique vision worthy of funding by other women. Beyond the financial support, they also provided thoughtful film festival recommendations, helping guide my project’s path forward. That recognition goes beyond money—it’s about validation, encouragement, and solidarity. I’m proud to be part of the Chimaera community and deeply appreciate their vital role in nurturing bold, inclusive storytelling that amplifies voices often overlooked.

    May 2025
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  • Ariel Baska

    The Chimaera Project selected me for not just a $1,000 grant toward finishing funds, but also gifted me with what amounted to an $8,000 camera package from SONY, a completely unexpected surprise. I’m delighted to say that I’m in excellent company when I review the other selected projects, and feel that this fund is curating and selecting well, with great communication all around. As a non-binary filmmaker, it really impressed me to have such strenuous support that never felt tokenizing in any way.

    May 2025
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  • CRFT Management

    Absolutely wonderful experience and even greater people running it.

    May 2025
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  • Bridgette Stephens

    This was great! This was the first festival I placed in. I felt seen for the first time in this Industry.

    May 2025
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  • Roberto Fatal

    So honored and grateful to have our short film, Digital Curanderas, selected as a winner. Thank you for believing in our work and supporting LGBTQ cinema so fiercely.

    November 2022
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