The Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Foundation for International Photography is currently seeking to award one outstanding global, social documentary photographer with a grant of $5,000 USD to be utilized in the production or completion of a social documentary project. The pre-approved project must be produced in the photojournalistic tradition ofManuel Rivera-Ortiz, Foundation Founder & President. The winning project must be based on such pressing social issues in developing nations as health, poverty, oppression, war, famine, religious/political persecution, and much more.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE

Photographers of all nationalities who are 18 years of age or older are eligible to apply. Submit a one-page proposal and a portfolio sample of your black & white or color (PDF if possible) current work. Only new and continuing projects are eligible to apply. Our Director, Founder, and Board of Trustees will select a winner from all accepted entries.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Only digital file submissions will be considered. Digital files should not exceed 10 MB in size. Please submit a PDF contact sheet of your work consisting of no more than 15 images, alongside a written essay of up to 1000 words stating the purpose of your work, why you should be awarded this grant, and a little about who you are and how you developed a passion for photography. Also include in your statement a line or two about your photographic process, and the inspiration behind your work. It will be your responsibility to insure that your entry has been received. We are not responsible for submissions sent but not received. Final proposals that have been selected must include a description of the social issue to be funded by this grant, a proposed completion date/schedule (projects must be completed within 6 months following receipt of award) and a detailed budget for final approval. Grant funding will be disseminated in installments as the project is completed and submitted for approval. No signature, stamp or any other identifying mark is to be printed anywhere on submitted images.

Entry Deadline: May 31, 2012

For more information on the Grant Program and the activities of the Foundation, check our website: www.mrofoundation.org or contact the Executive Director, Mr. Didier de Faÿs, at