Hot Docs Foundation (U.S.A.), Inc. is an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization which exists primarily to support the activities of Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival in Toronto, Canada.

Hot Docs is a national, charitable organization with a mission to advance and celebrate the art of documentary, and to showcase the work of and create production opportunities for documentary filmmakers.

Your support of Hot Docs Foundation (U.S.A), Inc. helps nurture and support the creation, presentation and promotion of documentary films and filmmaking through direct grants to filmmakers and educational initiatives.

Current initiatives include:

first look Pitch Prizes: An opportunity for individuals to directly support filmmakers and their projects, the first look Pitch Prizes are awarded at the annual Hot Docs Forum—the Shark Tank of documentary finance. After observing all film teams pitch during the two-day Forum, participating first look philanthropists, who have each committed $5,000 to the program, vote to select top projects to receive the prizes.

Founders Circle: A passionate circle of donors who support Hot Docs’ core activities, including the annual Hot Docs Festival, Hot Docs Industry programs, Docs For Schools educational programming, and the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema.