Production Cohort

Ready to build a strong foundation for your filmmaking journey?

About the Cohort

Open Signal's production cohort is a 5-month program designed to support the creation of media you're excited about! Whether you're just starting out or ready to move your project forward, we are here to help you figure out exactly what you need. This opportunity is open to individuals and teams who want to create impactful video work in a friendly and supportive learning environment. We ask that applicants are Open Signal members and reside in the Portland Metro area.

Work one-on-one with an Open Signal facilitator who is as passionate about your project as you are. They will guide you through the production process, tailoring our media education and resources to fit your unique story — we offer training on camera operation, soundstage as a set, and editing, as well as equipment kits for offsite production. You'll meet with your facilitator every other week to make sure you have what you need to stay on track.

Through this program you'll also connect with a vibrant community of media makers who, just like you, are diligently working on a project. Share updates, ask for and receive valuable critiques, and learn from one another throughout the program.

Applications for the Summer 2024 cohort open June 21st and close July 12th. Attend an info session on May 1st to learn if this program is right for you!

The production cohort is a 5-month program commitment intended to enrich your video production and networking skills, as well as introduce you to the many opportunities at Open Signal. You will be learning on Open Signal equipment and software to develop and build on the skills needed to complete your project.

This opportunity is also open to youth ages 14 to 17 — participants under the age of 16 must attend all training, meetings and gear checkout with a guardian. If you're a young person interested in participating, please reach out to education [at] opensignalpdx.org to talk with us about the opportunities available to you.

Once your project is complete, we’ll show you how to upload content to our cable channels! Your work will be scheduled to broadcast to homes all over the Portland Metro area and stream online.

Open Signal is an inclusive space, this program is open to all media makers.

Historically, mainstream media has excluded many communities. Through our programs, Open Signal seeks to support storytelling rooted in the lived experience of:

Those living with disabilities
Those who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)
Those living with low incomes (find more information here — low income is defined as at or under 80% of median income for your household size)
English-language learners

How to Apply

Applications for the cohort are open twice a year:

November 9 - 23 for Winter, cohort runs from January 5 - May 30.
June 21 - July 12 for Summer, cohort runs from August - January

Applications are reviewed by Open Signal staff, and we accept projects based on eligibility and our capacity.