WE EQUIP STUDENTS WITH PROFESSIONAL TOOLS & TRAINING TO SHOWCASE LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS
DRIVING INNOVATION IN SOUTHEAST ALABAMA.
2026 Applications Open Soon
Students create a video for the chance to receive:
Full Suite of Filmmaking Equipment
In-Person Training on storyboarding, cinematography, editing, and more
Entrepreneurship workshop to launch a video production business
Exposure Across the Wiregrass region
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2025 WINNERS
The team of five talented high school filmmakers will converge in Dothan, Alabama, where they'll receive a full suite of professional equipment, hands-on training, entrepreneurship coaching, and startup funding—empowering them to launch careers rooted in their creative passion.
Through a real-world, work-based learning project, each student will also build the first piece of their professional portfolio—equipping the next generation of storytellers across the Wiregrass region.
CONTEXT
The Wiregrass Film Exchange is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit equipping high school students across Southeast Alabama with professional video production tools, hands-on training, and entrepreneurial skills. In just two years, we’ve grown from 7 schools to 22, preparing a pipeline of job-ready creative talent for Alabama’s media, marketing, and technology sectors.
VISION
We envision a Wiregrass region where creative talent fuels economic growth and community vitality. By equipping students to tell the stories of Southeast Alabama—its people, industries, and opportunities—the Film Exchange amplifies the region’s successes, attracts new investment, and showcases the Wiregrass as a vibrant, forward-looking place to live and work.
WHAT'S ON THE LINE
Pro Equipment
Each winner will receive a Canon DSLR, 18-55mm Lens, Rode VideoMic, Tripod, Spare Batteries, and an SD Card.
Training
Winners will receive equipment and during Exchange Week, a 2-day experience hosted at the Houston County Career Academy. Training hosted by seasoned industry professionals.
Software
Each MacBook will come with Final Cut Pro, as well as Logic Pro, Motion, Compressor, and Mainstage for expanded creative exploration.
Entrepreneurship
Winners will receive a specialized workshop on leveraging their videography skills to establish a video production business, focusing on securing the first client, proposal creation, and storyboarding, among other foundational entrepreneurial skills.
