Firelight Media Seeks New Donors to Overcome 41% Funding Cuts

In a challenging year for Firelight Media, the nonprofit that supports documentary filmmakers of color, the organization has faced a significant funding crisis. In September 2025, Firelight Media lost 41% of its annual funding when monies provided by PBS shrank and federal funding agencies such as the NEA and Corporation for Public Broadcasting shut down.

This loss of funding has had a major impact on Firelight Media's operations, affecting its programming, mentorship initiatives, and institutional infrastructure. To keep the organization afloat, Firelight Media's President and CEO, Loira Limbal, has announced a new initiative to reach out to independently wealthy individuals and secure major donations.

Despite the difficulties, Firelight Media remains committed to its mission of supporting diverse documentary filmmakers and advancing social justice through their work. The organization has produced and supported numerous acclaimed documentaries, including "Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool," "Freedom Riders," and "Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples Temple." In the face of the funding crisis, Limbal has vowed to "double down" on Firelight Media's efforts, stating that documentary filmmaking is an "essential part of a healthy arts and story narrative ecosystem" and that the voices of filmmakers of color are "essential right now."