RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT GRANT
Chicken & Egg Pictures
DEADLINE: March 4, 2024 at 3:00pm EST
INFO: Now in its second year, The Chicken & Egg Pictures Research & Development Grant supports filmmakers from around the world who have directed at least one feature-length documentary and are in the research & development stage of their next feature-length film. (Note: in the pilot year, the grant eligibility was limited to filmmakers who had already directed two or more feature-length documentaries.)
With support for the second consecutive year by Netflix, the Chicken & Egg Pictures Research & Development Grant supports directors to ideate and plan for their next feature-length film. Many filmmakers invest their personal resources into their films and face funding challenges when entering into the research & development stages of new projects. It is hard to secure funding for a new project without significant sample material, yet producing material without external funding can be almost impossible. To address this challenge, The Chicken & Egg Pictures Research & Development Grant provides financial support to directors during a filmmaking stage that is too often unpaid and unsupported.
A total of $450,000 USD will be awarded in the following grant amounts:
$10,000 USD grants for Research
$20,000 USD grants for Development
The final number of Research Grants vs. Development Grants disbursed will be determined during the selection process, based on the characteristics and strength of the applicant pool for each category.
The purpose of the Research & Development Grant is to support projects at the early stages of their lifecycle. If you have already raised a significant amount of capital (over 35% of your film’s total budget) and have shot and/or edited a substantial amount of footage, you may not be competitive for this grant, unless you can demonstrate very specific needs for the project (such as previously overlooked research activity).
We recognize that each documentary is unique and that processes for research and development, fundraising, and production can vary widely. The information provided here is not intended as strict eligibility criteria, but rather as general guidelines to help applicants understand the stage at which we aim to provide support for projects.
The 2024 Chicken & Egg Pictures Research & Development Grant is generously supported by the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:
Trust: This grant initiative is driven by our trust in filmmakers with an established track record. We look forward to working with them on new projects at a stage that is especially hard to fundraise for. We trust that applicants will make the best determination about which stage to apply to based on the information presented below.
Simplicity: We aim to keep The Chicken & Egg Pictures Research & Development Grant application as simple as possible so that filmmakers are not burdened by the process. Some important things to note about the application:
The applications for the Research Grant vs. the Development Grant are not the same. Most of the questions are shared across both applications, but some questions are specific to each application.
Most questions are based on the Nonfiction Core Application 2.0.
The application also includes some supplemental questions to help us gather the necessary information for organizational purposes.
Deep listening: This grant initiative was born through deeply listening to a wide range of stakeholders including filmmakers and field representatives who were interviewed during our 2023-2025 Strategic Planning process. Filmmakers shared that they need to be fully trusted with funding early on. We heard the need to be financially supported to have the time and space to think, research, and develop new ideas.
PROJECT STAGE: RESEARCH VS. DEVELOPMENT:
It is important to acknowledge that the differences between the research and development stages are often nuanced, and the activities listed in each stage may overlap. It can be challenging to precisely determine where the research stage concludes and where the development stage commences. For this grant application, we have provided the following definitions and core activities associated with each stage to assist applicants in determining the appropriate grant to apply for.
RESEARCH
The research stage is a period of sowing and ideation.
Core activities associated with the research stage:
Identifying secondary sources such as literature, art, and cultural materials
Familiarizing with other (film) projects
Identifying primary sources and collaborators
Locating visual assets and archives
Identifying and tracking potential or multiple storylines
Finding a narrative framework that can support the film
Building foundational relationships with the community and collaborators at the center of the story
DEVELOPMENT
The development stage is a nuanced period of exploration and discovery.
Core activities associated with the development stage:
Gaining and securing access to core participants and collaborators, and starting shooting
Developing the story
Plotting the film’s multiple and intersecting timelines
Fine-tuning the development budget and creating a fundraising strategy
Creating fundraising materials such as a pitch deck, trailer, teaser, etc.
Testing pitch materials for resonance at pitch venues with potential funders
Engaging possible partners
The Chicken & Egg Pictures’ Research & Development Grant is designed to be used flexibly and holistically by each filmmaking team. In addition to expenses related to the core activities mentioned above, the grant may also cover reasonable expenses for the filmmaking team’s fees and salaries, as well as caregiving costs to enable filmmakers who are caregivers to take the time they need to fulfill these activities. While the type of expenses can vary, grantees will be required to submit a narrative report to help us evaluate the scope and impact of the grant (more information in the Reporting & Deliverablessection).
ELIGIBILITY:
Important: You may only submit one application per cycle. If you have more than one eligible project, select which project you will submit for consideration. You may apply for either the Research Grant OR Development Grant, but not both categories.
Please review the following eligibility criteria for The 2024 Chicken & Egg Pictures Research & Development Grant.
APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY:
To be eligible for this grant, filmmakers must meet the following criteria:
Must identify as a woman (cis or trans) or gender-expansive director.
Our working definition of gender-expansive is that it is an umbrella term that includes any person whose gender identity or gender expression does not comply with the socially defined gender norms and roles of their culture. This includes, but is not limited to, non-binary, trans, third gender/two-spirit, and agender individuals).
If you are unsure whether you are gender-expansive, please refer to our please refer to the gender expansion page on our website for more information.
Must have directed at least one (1) completed feature-length documentary film.
The film must have a duration of 48 minutes or longer.
Films must be completed to be considered for this requirement. If you are currently directing your first feature-length film, you would not be eligible to apply until that film is completed and has premiered or is completed and actively seeking an upcoming premiere (e.g. within next 3-4 months).
The film must be independently produced. However, commissioned documentaries and television documentaries, including those produced for news/journalism outlets, are eligible to be considered as prior work if the director had directorial control.
Feature-length narrative work is not eligible to be considered as prior work for this application.
Can be based anywhere in the world, except for the countries which are under comprehensive US sanctions. These countries include Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and the following regions of Ukraine: Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk. Further information on why filmmakers based in these countries/regions are ineligible to apply can be found here.
If you are originally from these countries/regions but are based outside of them, you are still eligible to apply.
Please note: If you are making a film that takes place in one of these countries/regions, you may apply for the grant, but you will not be able to spend the grant within those countries/regions.
PROJECT ELIGIBILITY:
Applicants for this grant must submit a project for consideration that meets the following criteria:
Must be a documentary or nonfiction film (including hybrid docs). VR, interactive, branded content, or fiction films are not eligible.
Must be feature-length (48 minutes or more). Short / medium-length films or series are not eligible
Must be in the Research or Development stage. Please refer to the section Project Stage: Research vs. Development for more information on what we consider each stage to be.
Must be independently produced. Works-for-hire are not eligible, and student films produced in an undergraduate or graduate program are also not eligible.
You do not need a fiscal sponsor to apply for the Research & Development Grant. However, if you are awarded, you must have a US fiscal sponsor, or be a 501(c)(3), to receive the funds.
For more details about eligibility, please review the full list of FAQs at the end of this page. If you have any questions regarding our open call that are not addressed in the FAQs, you can contact us at research-development@chickeneggpics.org.
TIMELINE:
March 4, 2024, at 3:00 PM EST: Research & Development Grant application deadline.
March-May 2024: Chicken & Egg Pictures processes and reviews applications in a two-round process.
Mid-June 2024: All applicants are notified of final decisions.
July-August 2024: Grants disbursed.
January 2025: 6-month check-in with grantees regarding the status of their projects.
chickeneggpics.org/programs/#research-development-grant
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Creative Capital GRANTS
Creative Capital
APPLICATION PERIOD: March 4 - April 4, 2024
INFO: For our 25th Anniversary, Creative Capital welcomes innovative and original new project proposals in visual arts, performing arts, film/moving image, technology, literature, multidisciplinary, and socially engaged forms.
The Creative Capital Award provides unrestricted project grants which can be drawn down over a multi-year period, bespoke professional development services, and community-building opportunities.
Grants are awarded via a democratic, national, open call, external review process. Our goal is to fund individual artists creating conceptually, aesthetically, and formally challenging, risk-taking, and never-before-seen projects.
GRANT APPLICATION DETAILS:
Creative Capital is committed to groundbreaking ideas that challenge what art can be. As Creative Capital Awardees have demonstrated, socially impactful ideas are embedded in a myriad of artistic forms and practices. We invite artists to propose experimental, original, bold projects in the visual arts, performing arts, film/moving image, technology, literature, multidisciplinary, and socially engaged forms which push boundaries formally and/or thematically.
We invite artists to select a primary discipline for their proposals based on which experts are most suited and qualified to review the project proposal, with the understanding that radical art is often by nature interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary, or antidisciplinary. By choosing to apply within a certain disciplinary category, we are asking you to choose how you want to frame the discussion around your work and to indicate which experts are most qualified to evaluate your project proposal.
2025: 50 Grants
Visual Arts: including painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, architecture, design, multimedia, installation, video art, performance art, new genres, craft, and socially engaged, and/or sustainable visual art-based practices
Performing Arts: including dance, theater (new theatrical work, playwriting), jazz, music, opera, singing, and socially engaged and/or sustainable performing arts-based practices
Film/Moving Image: including experimental film, short film, animation, documentary film, narrative film, and socially engaged and/or sustainable film/moving image-based practices
Technology: including augmented reality/virtual reality, bio art, data visualization, hardware, software, digital media, internet art, and socially engaged and/or sustainable technology-based practices
Literature: including poetry, fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, and socially engaged and/or sustainable literature-based practices
APPLICATION CYCLE:
ROUND I: Tell us your idea. Letter of Inquiry (LOI)
Along with your project title, one line project description (25 words max), project description (250 words max), resume (1 page max), and artist website (if applicable), please answer the following questions:
How does your project take an original and imaginative approach to content and form? Please be as specific as possible. (150 words)
Please place your work in context so we may better evaluate it. What are the main influences upon your work as an artist? How does your past work inform your current project? Please use concrete examples, which may include other artists’ work, art movements, cultural heritage, science, philosophy, research/work from outside the arts field, etc. (150 words)
What kind of impact—artistic, intellectual, communal, civic, social, political, environmental, etc.—do you hope your project will have? What strategies will you employ to achieve the desired impact? (100 words)
Who are the specific audiences/communities that you hope to engage through this project? Please think beyond the broader art community where possible. How are you hoping to reach them? (100 words)
How might your proposed project act as a catalyst for your artistic and professional growth? In what ways is it a pivotal moment in your practice? (100 words)
In addition to funding, Creative Capital also provides scaffolding and support services for awardees (such as expert consultations, gatherings, alumni network, workshops). How would our non-monetary services help you to realize your goals for this project and/or your long-term artistic and professional growth? (100 words)
ROUND II: Project Details
Project itemized budget (1 page)
Project timeline (1 page)
Work samples (see application handbook for guidelines)
ROUND III: Final Panel Review
Submit proof of eligibility.
Confirm collaborators (if applicable)
Project updates (optional, 100 words max)
Full application guidelines are outlined in the Application Handbook.
All applications are reviewed by external reviewers who are scholars, curators, artists, past awardees, and experts in the field. The final recommendations for the awards are reviewed and then ratified by our Board. Awardees are announced in January 2025. Under no circumstances will the reasons for the rejection of an application be provided.
Any awarded projects which are directly related to any of the 17 UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals will have the opportunity to have the “Way” or the icon of that UN Sustainable Development goal attached to their project on the Creative Capital website in effort to advance the global dialogue around these critical issues impacting the future of our communities, our planet, and beyond. In keeping with the spirit of the 17 UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, we too have an expansive definition of “sustainability” that goes far beyond climate change and the environmental challenges we face—including: good health and wellbeing, affordable and clean energy, reduced inequalities, life on land, and peace, justice, and strong institutions.
2025 CREATIVE CAPITAL GRANT TIMELINE:
These dates may change.
March 4 to April 4, 2024: Letter of Inquiries (LOI) accepted
April 4, 2024 4:00 PM Eastern Time / New York Time: LOI deadline
June 2024: Notification of advancement to Round II
September 2024: Notification of advancement to Final Panel Review
January 2025: Public announcement of 2025 Creative Capital Awards
ARTIST ELIGIBILITY:
US citizen, permanent legal resident, or O-1 visa holder
At least 25 years old
Working artist(s) with at least 5 years of professional artistic practice
Applicant may not be enrolled in a degree-granting program
May not apply to the Warhol Foundation Arts Writers grant program in the same year
May not have previously received a Creative Capital Award
May not be an applicant or collaborator on more than one proposed project per year
Projects that are not eligible
Projects whose main purpose is promotional
Project is to fund ongoing operations of existing business
Curation or documentation of existing work
Projects that will be completed before January, 2025.
JUROR INFORMATION:
Creative Capital invites regional, national, and international experts in a wide range of disciplines to serve in our review process. External reviewers are offered honoraria for their time and expertise. All external reviewer names are confidential until the awards are announced.
creative-capital.org/about-the-creative-capital-award
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BLACK & UNLIMITED FATHERHOOD PROJECT
American Black Film Festival
DEADLINE: March 10, 2024
INFO: The Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project is a national competition created, in partnership with Walmart’s Black and Unlimited, to champion independent filmmaking while providing a platform to showcase a wide range of stories about Black fatherhood. This initiative has been designed to spotlight emerging directors and amplify the presence of Black men in their families and communities.
Three directors will be selected as winners and will receive the following:
a $10,000 cash award
an opportunity to attend and screen their films at the 2024 ABFF (Miami, June 12-16)
an industry mentorship opportunity with an established filmmaker
In addition, each film will also be featured on ABFF PLAY the festival’s online global platform and Walmart’s Black and Unlimited YouTube page.
Submit your up to 30 minute film about Black fatherhood now.
Each entry must include a signed release form downloadable HERE. At the time of submission via FilmFreeway, upload your signed copy to the PRESS area.
Full submission and eligibility details on FilmFreeway. Entrants will be notified of the festival’s decision by May 1.
abff.com/miami/black-and-unlimited-fatherhood-project/
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EPISODIC LAB
Film Independent
MEMBER DEADLINE / FEE: March 11, 2024 / $45
INFO: Designed to support writers with original long-form episodic projects, Film Independent’s Episodic Lab will accept a diverse group of 6–8 writers or writing teams and provide them with critical support and mentorship. Through personalized feedback from experienced showrunners, creative producers and executives, Fellows will gain the tools to revise and refine their pilots and navigate a changing industry landscape.
The Episodic Lab helps to further the careers of its Fellows by introducing them to industry veterans who can offer guidance on both the craft and business of writing episodic content. Each Fellow will be paired with a Creative Advisor with whom they’ll work one-on-one and in group sessions to develop their project during the month of September. Additionally, guest speakers will screen and discuss their own work to offer insights into the creative process and industry best practices. A final networking and pitch event will offer Fellows the opportunity to introduce themselves and their work to studio and network executives.
For more information on the application deadline please visit our applications page.
The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation will award one participant of the Film Independent Episodic Lab a $20,000 development grant.
To apply for the Sloan Episodic Lab Grant, apply to the Episodic Lab and provide a statement on how the project fulfills the mission of the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation in your cover letter. The applicant must possess the rights to the script with which they are applying. The teleplay should have a scientific, mathematical and/or technological theme and storyline or have a leading character that is a scientist, engineer or mathematician.
At this time, science fiction projects are not eligible for the Sloan Episodic Lab Grant.
WHO CAN APPLY?
The Episodic Lab is open to any emerging writer applying with a completed draft of a half hour or hour-long television pilot they wish to workshop during the program. Each applicant must be the author of the script he or she submits. The submitted pilot cannot have been pitched at any point to a studio or network.
Writing partners are welcome to apply as teams and need only submit a single application. International applicants are also welcome to apply. At this time, documentary and short-form digital series are not eligible to apply.
HOW TO APPLY:
Please read over the application form before preparing your materials. Applicants must submit the following for consideration:
Required
A cover letter introducing yourself and your interest in the Episodic Lab
One complete, original pilot
A series logline and pilot synopsis
A series description describing the story engine and series arc of the show
Project status and history, including any industry exposure
A series proposal document that includes brief descriptions of the world of the series and its premise and genre, as well as breakdowns for the show’s primary characters and their first season arcs
SELECTION CRITERIA:
Film Independent is looking for well-written, compelling, pilots with an original premise or vision. The submitted pilot may be original or adapted from optioned source material. Though applicants must submit a completed draft, the Lab is structured to support writers who are still creatively engaged in the writing process; those who welcome feedback and discussion will most benefit from the program as they further develop their work.
THE FINE PRINT:
Beyond the application fee, there is no cost or tuition to participate in any of Film Independent’s Artist Development programs.
Film Independent Membership is not required when applying to Artist Development Labs. However, all participants accepted into the Labs are required to join Film Independent at the standard annual General Membership rate of $95.
Applicants will be notified three to four weeks prior to the start of the program.
Until further notice, all Film Independent Labs will be held online.
filmindependent.org/programs/artist-development/episodic-lab/
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CATAPULT Development Grant
Catapult Film Fund
SUBMISSION PERIOD: March 11 - April 15, 2024
INFO: Launched in 2010, the Catapult Development Fund provides early-stage support to documentary filmmakers when funding is hardest to find. For this cycle, we will offer fifteen (15) grants of up to $25,000 USD to filmmakers in development with a documentary feature or short. We do not support docuseries at this time.
Our flagship program is geared toward independent filmmakers who have a strong story to tell, have secured access, and are ready to unlock critical production funding. This grant can be used for a variety of development needs and must result in the creation of a fundraising piece as the final deliverable. We prioritize artful, moving storytelling and are not tied to any specific social issue agenda. Learn more about Frequently Asked Questions»
KEY DATES:
March 11, 2024: Application Opens on Submittable
April 15, 2024: Application Closes at 5 p.m. PT
September 2024: Grantees notified
October 2024: Grantees announced
ELIGIBILITY:
Applicants (Project Director) must be 18 years or older and cannot be enrolled in an academic institution.
Documentaries must be in development or early production with an intended length of 28 minutes or longer.
Grant funds must specifically be used to create a fundraising piece, which may include writing, shooting and editing once story and characters are in place.
Applicants must own the copyright of their production, and have artistic, budgetary, and editorial control over their project.
Applicants should have previous film or television production experience in a principal role (director, co-director, producer, co-producer) as demonstrated via previous work samples. Applicants who do not meet this criteria should demonstrate how they will be working with experienced filmmakers as key creative personnel.
Catapult does not make grants to individuals. If selected, applicants must be able to accept grants through a 501(c)(3) organization such as a fiscal sponsor. Projects may apply without a fiscal sponsor but must confirm the designated organization in order to receive funding. Learn more in our Frequently Asked Questions»
Catapult does not fund student films, docuseries, fiction projects, or projects that are in production, post-production, or completed. Hybrid and experimental formats will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
SELECTION CRITERIA:
Artful, compelling storytelling that moves you, with a preference for character-driven narratives over lesson or agenda-heavy projects
Originality of approach, content, and form
Creative and innovative storytelling techniques
Contemporary relevance with a unique perspective, style, and/or tone
Project feasibility with respect to budget, financing, schedule, and scope
Demonstrated ability of the creative team to implement previous projects
Credible access and rapport with the proposed subject(s) of the story, with attention to accountability and ethics
Significant impact of Catapult grant on development stage of the project
Potential of the project to generate public discourse and social engagement
GUIDELINES:
Grant awards range from $5000 to $25,000. If selected, grantees must have a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor to officially accept the award.
Once accepted, Catapult will provide a letter of agreement that clearly outlines use of funds, reporting, and deliverables. Report deadlines are determined by the grantee, based on project goals and timeline.
Grantees must submit two financial reports during the course of the grant period: an interim report, which will accompany a narrative report; and a final financial report to be submitted once the grant is complete.
Upon completion of the award period, grantees must submit the proposed fundraising piece. Grantees agree to return any funds not used for the purpose of the grant.
Grantees will be expected to acknowledge Catapult support with text and/or logo recognition in film credits, publicity, and promotional materials, as well as tickets to the film’s premiere.
Beyond the grant, Catapult serves as an early and engaged champion for our grantees by providing editorial feedback, industry connections, and mentorship based on project needs.
catapultfilmfund.org/how-to-apply/development/
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THE TO BE COMMISSIONED INITIATIVE
The Black List / Tubi
DEADLINE: March 15, 2024
INFO: The Black List and Tubi have partnered to discover five feature scripts for Tubi to purchase and develop, with the intent of greenlighting each script for production and distribution.
In order to submit for this program, you must be logged into the website and have uploaded a script.
The Black List and Tubi have partnered to discover five feature scripts for Tubi to purchase and develop, with the intent of greenlighting each script for production and distribution.
Tubi is looking for stories that appeal to a youthful audience across diverse communities. They are especially interested in science fiction, faith-based, romance and comedy movies from the LGBTQ+, Black, Latine, and AAPI communities. If a script does not fit any of the above categories, it may be submitted to the Wild Card category.
Selected scripts will first be purchased by Tubi for a predetermined amount relative to the intended film budget; from there, a Guild-minimum step deal structure will be determined with Tubi until intended greenlight and production. The Black List will also be an executive producer on each of the films.
200 fee waivers are available for this program! In order to qualify for a fee waiver, you must have a completed screenplay and identify as a writer from a traditionally underrepresented community. Please be patient as it might take some time before we can respond to your request. Fee waivers will be distributed at the discretion of the Black List and Tubi - submitting writers will be asked to elaborate on why they qualify for a fee waiver during the final stages of the program submission process.
This opportunity is open to writers at every level, WGA and otherwise, and we encourage all voices to submit their screenplay for consideration.
The selection process will work like this:
On April 1st, a long list of up to fifty scripts will be selected and the writers of those scripts will be invited to submit a resume and a personal statement. The Black List and Tubi will review those projects. On May 15th, a short list of up to twenty-five scripts will be selected from the long list and those writers will be invited to submit additional materials.
The Black List and Tubi will then identify a top tier of scripts from the short list and will interview those writers before confirming selection of the final scripts.
IMPORTANT DATES:
March 15, 2024 - Submissions Close
April 1, 2024 - Long List Notifications
May 15, 2024 - Short List Notifications
July 1, 2024 - Final Selection Notification
blcklst.com/programs/the-to-be-commissioned-initiative
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2023 MICHAEL COLLYER MEMORIAL FELLOWSHIP IN SCREENWRITING
The Black List
DEADLINE: March 15, 2024
INFO: The Michael Collyer Memorial Fellowship in Screenwriting is a one-year fellowship that is awarded to an emerging screenwriter under 25 who intends to pursue a career in screenwriting. The winner receives a $10,000 stipend to write an original screenplay (not the script used to opt in to the fellowship) and is mentored during the course of the fellowship year by a prominent screenwriter. This program, now in its 16th year, is a partnership between the Writers Guild Initiative and the King Family Foundation, and this is its eighth year being hosted on blcklst.com.
The purpose of the fellowship is to provide an opportunity for an emerging screenwriter to develop an original screenplay and assist in transitioning into the professional world of screenwriting. The Writers Guild Initiative (WGI) is looking for diverse and unique voices, and for projects that are character driven and personal in nature. They are exclusively seeking feature films; no shorts, plays, or TV pilots at this time.
This year, the Black List will choose ten screenplays to send to the Writers Guild Initiative selection committee for consideration. The short list will be determined in March, and the Fellowship recipient will be selected by WGI no later than May 30, 2024. The winner of this year’s Fellowship will be announced in Spring 2024 and will be invited to attend the 2025 WGI Gala.
Please keep in mind that, upon opting in, we will verify your age, so it does not benefit you to opt in if you are not within the age bracket of 18-25. Any writers who do not fit into the age requirements for this partnership will not be considered.
Additionally, please note that you will be writing a new script for this fellowship, not rewriting the script you submitted to this opportunity. The Michael Collyer Memorial Fellowship provides the opportunity to write an entirely new script with a mentor. The submitted script is used to show your writing skills, voice, etc. and the potential for wanting to hear more of the stories that you’d want to write. You may also be asked to submit a resume and personal statement that speak to where this opportunity would fit into your overall journey as a writer.
REQUIREMENTS
Entrant must submit a full-length feature screenplay on blcklst.com during the overall submission period - November 13, 2023 through March 15, 2024.
Entrant must be the sole and exclusive author of the screenplay submitted for consideration.
Entrant must be over the age of 18 and no older than the age of 25 by 12/31/23 and competent to contract.
Entrant must not be represented by an agent or manager in the film or television industry at the time Entrant opts into this program.
Non-US citizens are eligible to apply.
If requested, the entrant must submit the following, which are also governed by the submission requirements and agreement:
A personal statement
A professional resume
Contact and other personal information
A logline and 250 word synopsis of the submitted screenplay
Two page pitch of film you'd like to write during the fellowship year
Signed originals of the Submission Agreement
Note that if you already have a script hosted on the Black List website, the deadline to opt into consideration for this fellowship is March 15, 2024. All ratings associated with the script, including those that predate the submissions period, will be considered in the final decision. Additionally, please note that you will need to have at least one evaluation of your script in order to complete the submission process for this opportunity.
blcklst.com/programs/2023-michael-collyer-memorial-fellowship-in-screenwriting
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SERIOUS MENTAL ILLNESS SHORT FILM COMPETITION
Voices With Impact
DEADLINE: March 17 2023
SUBMISSION FEE: $0
INFO: Voices With Impact is proud to present the Serious Mental Illness Short Film Competition.
This is an open call to submit film projects, up to 5 minutes in in length, of any genre, using Serious Mental Illness as the point of interest. Film topics may either be interpretive of Serious Mental Illness, or address it directly. We are looking for films on Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, and films that take a wider view of serious mental illness - we define this as any a mental illness that significantly impairs daily life.
We do not place any formal restrictions on submissions, and will consider all genres and types of short films, including submissions utilizing original footage, shared footage, photo stills, music, essays, screenplays, original art work and more. The film must however be your own original work and you must have the correct license for any materials used within the film. There is no fee for submissions.
The submission window opens on November 10 2023 and closes on March 17 2023. Entries will be juried by our advisory board of filmmakers, students and mental health professionals. Applicants will be notified of outcomes in late May 2024. Winning films will be announced at the Voices With Impact festival June 2024.
To watch films from our library visit www.voiceswithimpact.com/archive. This should give you a good idea of the films that we accept.
This competition is supported by The Sidney R. Baer Jr. Foundation.
AWARDS + PRIZES:
We will award prizes to 3 winning entries.
Each winner will receive a cash prize of $2000 USD and have their film inducted into our film library for Distribution in our educational programming across the US & Canada.
Winning films will be announced at the Voices With Impact festival, June 2024.
RULES + TERMS:
Length and Content:
We only accept submissions as Vimeo video URLs. YouTube, Google Drive, Dropbox, and any other URL links are not accepted and will be disqualified.
Submissions must either be interpretive of serious mental illness, or address it directly to be eligible for this competition.
Submissions must be 5 minutes or less. Films longer than five (5) minutes will be disqualified.
Submissions may not advertise any product, service, brand, or other commercial interest.
Submissions that are music videos may only portray original music that you own rights to.
LANGUAGE + LOCATION:
There are no geographic limitations on entries — we accept short films made anywhere in the world!
If a submission is not in English, a translation or subtitles in English must be accessible (Closed Caption CC options turned on)
PROCESS:
If your video is listed as private, you must provide a viewing password in your submission form so our jurors are able to view it.
Participants may submit only one version of a given project. However, any participant may submit more than one project. A separate Entry must be completed for each submission.
Past winners are required to wait at least one year before re-submitting to the competition.
Film jurors from our Advisory Board who are also filmmakers may submit work, but only during competitions in which they are not serving as a juror.
CONTENTS RIGHTS:
Filmmaker agrees that all submitted films may be used by Art With Impact for educational and outreach activities and the winning filmmaker will sign a license agreement to Art With Impact that will allow both AWI and and affiliated organizations in any relevant programming in perpetuity.
Filmmakers are responsible for securing any and all necessary licenses for any third party content, including footage, music, fonts, artwork, and any other asset used in film production.
JURYING PROCEDURES:
Films will be judged by the Film Program team and select members of the Advisory Board, which comprises of filmmakers, mental health professionals, and students.
To select the winner, jurors respond to the 10 questions found in the contest FAQ.
Art With Impact reserves the right to not award a prize ($2,000 cash) if submissions do not meet the jury’s standards for both content and production value.
TOPIC FOCUS:
This competition is inspired by the life and legacy of Sidney Baer Jr. and supported by the Baer Foundation.
The three winning films will tell authentic stories of people living with serious mental illnesses with the goal of reducing stigma and opening opportunities for dialogue and learning.
filmfreeway.com/mentalhealthfilmcompetition
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NHMC's Series Scriptwriters Program
National Hispanic Media Coalition
DEADLINE: March 18, 2024 by 11:59pm PST
INFO: Aspiring Latinx writers with a strong desire to write for streaming & television are encouraged to apply!
This program is virtual, to run Monday-Friday evenings, and Saturday mornings over the course of the 8 weeks. On-screen participation in all meetings is mandatory.
ELIGIBILITY:
You must be 18 years or older
You must have access to reliable internet connection to participate in daily video conferencing
Entertainment industry experience is not required
Writing teams cannot apply
PROGRAM DATES: 5/28/24 – 7/19/24
REQUIRED APPLICATION CRITERIA:
Resume (maximum 1 page) - Please submit a current professional resume. Make sure to include any relevant writing experience. However, this is not exclusively a writing resume, do include any experience that you feel enhances what you bring to the table as a writer even if it’s not directly writing-related.
Bio (maximum 200 words) - Think of your Bio and Statement of Purpose as non-fiction writing samples. These are equally as important as your script in giving us a sense of your unique voice. With your bio, think of it as part of what you might say in your elevator pitch about yourself. Tell us a story about who you are beyond what you have included on your resume.
Statement of Purpose (maximum 500 words) - Use this section to answer the following questions: Why do you write? What motivates you to tell those stories? What is your personal connection to your material? Why is writing for the small screen your passion?
List of Writing Samples - Please provide a list of your completed writing samples - title and logline (1-2 sentences max) only. On this list please include reference to any pilots, specs, features, shorts, short stories, published articles, etc, which you’ve written. If any of the work was with a writing partner or team, make note of which items were written as a collaboration. Note: All samples you list should be work you feel is polished enough to be read by execs, showrunners, etc.
Writing Sample - Please submit a properly formatted pilot or spec script. We will accept the following:
- 1-hour (max 59 pages)
- Half-hour (max 35 pages)
Your sample can be any genre including, but not limited to:
- Drama
- Dramedy
- Comedy
- Animation
Writing Samples NOT Accepted:
- Features
- Short Film script
- Novels
- Plays
- Poems
- Any other alternative samplesLogline (1-2 sentences)
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The Signpost Fellowship
Chisa Hutchinson
DEADLINE: March 22, 2024 (or when the first 200 submissions have been received)
INFO: The Signpost Fellowship is a six-month situation intended for a person of color (singular-- sorry, no writing partners) age 18 or over who's interested in shadowing professional playwright or screenwriter of color. What that looks like is entirely up to you and your Writer-Mentor but could involve:
being invited to meetings, auditions, rehearsals, and events
giving and receiving feedback on script drafts
performing dramaturgical research
fielding bottomless requests for bios and headshots
figuring out wtf to do with a stack of 1099s
Oh, and there's $2500 in it for you.
INTERESTED IN APPLYING?
Drop a short message below describing where you are in life and how this opportunity could be helpful to you.
Attach a short (10-page maximum) dramatic writing sample. (That means plays or screenplays-- no essays, short stories, haiku, etc.) PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT THE SAMPLE HAS A TITLE THE AUTHOR NAME, AND THAT THE TITLE OF THE DOCUMENT IS FORMATTED LIKE THIS: TITLE - Author Last Name. We can't process it otherwise.
The deadline is Friday, March 22nd OR when the first 200 submissions have been received.
Finalists will be selected by Friday, June 28th.
Interviews will be conducted in the weeks following.
The recipient(s) will be selected by Friday, August 2nd.
POSSIBLE WRITER-MENTORS (click name for info):
chisahutchinson.com/the-signpost-fellowship.html
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THE WRITERS LAB US 2024
DEADLINE: March 28, 2024
ENTRY FEE: $65
INFO: TWL US is a 4-day retreat in New York that focuses on project, craft, and career development for selected women and non-binary screenwriters 40+. Writers undergo deep development work on their projects, with revision guidance and career support from the experienced TWL team and some of the industry’s best writers and producers in one-on-one and group sessions. Shared meals and group activities provide an opportunity for broader conversations and creative exchange.
Writers selected to participate are expected to provide their own transportation to and from New York City. TWL provides transportation between New York City and the retreat itself, along with food and accommodations at the retreat venue.
The Writers Lab US is produced by co-founders Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon, with New York Women in Film & Television. It is presented in collaboration with the Writers Guild of America, East, with in-kind support from The Black List, Falco Ink, Film Fatales and Roadmap Writers.
It is supported by Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman, the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation, the Lynch Hall Charitable Fund and the Meg and Alex Weidner Family Foundation.
BENEFITS
All applicants receive an overview of TWL Readers’ scores on submitted screenplays.
Participating Writers gain:
Individualized feedback, insights and guidance on their selected project and their craft;
Understanding of industry standards, practices, expectations and predilections, and strategies and resources for navigating them;
Extensive ongoing alumnae support, including a community of peers and a network of relationships that can extend well beyond the program;
Exposure and opportunities beyond the Lab;
Resources and year-round supplemental programming from The Writers Lab.
The Lab aims to build skills, confidence and community, and to prepare writers for collaborative work and market demands.
The Writers Lab network of producing, partnering and supporting entities has included:
TWL US co-founders Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon
New York Women in Film & Television
Untamed Stories producers Julia Berg and Ruth Spencer
TWL US Mentors & Speakers: Anya Epstein (The Affair), Susan Cartsonis(What Women Want), Lisa Cortés (Precious), Amy Fox (The Conners), Daniela Gonzalez (Good Fear Content), Pamela Gray (A Walk on the Moon), Rita Hsaio (Mulan), Melissa James Gibson (House of Cards), Jennifer Kassabian (Carter), Meg LeFauve (Inside Out), Robina Lord-Stafford (Moonshine), Riva Marker (Beasts of No Nation), Leah Meyerhoff (Film Fatales, I Believe in Unicorns), Gina Prince-Blythewood (The Woman King), Erica Saleh (One of Us is Lying), Tracey Scott Wilson (The Americans), Susan Seidelman (Desperately Seeking Susan), Mary Jane Skalski (The Station Agent), Kiwi Smith (Legally Blonde), Shelby Stone (The Chi), Robin Swicord (Memoirs of a Geisha), Frida Torresblanco (Pan's Labyrinth), Pat Verducci(True Crime), Jamie Zelermyer (Focus Features).
writers.coverfly.com/competitions/view/the-writers-lab-us
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call for films
The Reel Sisters of the Diaspora Film Festival & Lecture Series
DEADLINES:
Early Bird - March 29, 2024
Regular - April 30, 2024
Final - May 24, 2024
INFO: The Reel Sisters of the Diaspora Film Festival & Lecture Series is an annual film festival founded by African Voices magazine. Established in 1997, Reel Sisters (www.reelsisters.org) is dedicated to providing opportunities for women of color to advance their careers in the film industry. Reel Sisters accepts films written, directed, or produced by women/non-binary filmmakers of color. Reel Sisters is the first Academy Qualifying Film Festival for short narratives devoted to women of color across the globe. Reel Sisters is an IMDb qualifying film festival. Reel Sisters celebrates our 27th Anniversary in 2024.
APPLICATION INFO:
YOU MUST SUBMIT PRODUCTION STILLS/PHOTOS and a TRAILER for your submission to be ELIGIBLE AND COMPLETE. You can screenshot photos from your film if you were unable to hire a photographer.
Reel Sisters is a competitive festival and films are selected by an independent jury. Please submit films early as deadlines are final. The festival provides quality customer service and does not offer fee waivers. The fee covers a small fraction of the administrative costs for running a professional Oscar qualifying film festival.
Reel Sisters accepts all genres and formats with a special interest in submissions from animated and web series producers. Send us films that will make our audience “cry, dance, laugh, sing and explore." The festival curates events throughout the year so all entries will be considered for Reel Sisters Tea & Cinema series. Join our worldwide community of film professionals in celebrating stories produced, directed and written by women of color!
For complete application visit www.reelsisters.org
AWARDS + PRIZES
Reel Sisters screens original films by women across the globe each year — the festival has screened over 5,500 films since its inception. Awards for Best Director, Best Documentary, Best Screenplay, Best Experimental, Best Animation, Best Feature, Best Short, Best Narrative, Best Web Series, Best Original Soundtrack and the Reel Sisters Spirit Award are selected by an independent jury composed of filmmakers, community leaders and artists. Reel Sisters has given over $75,000 in cash awards, fellowships and scholarships since our inception. In 2023, Reel Sisters Micro Budget Film Fellowship provided script to screen opportunities to three women of color filmmakers who received $5K each towards their short film project. Our fellows receive a premiere screening at Reel Sisters, an Oscar Qualifying festival.
CASH AWARDS FOR 2024
Best Narrative Short - $1,000
Best Director - $500
Best Screenplay - $300
Best Animation - $200
filmfreeway.com/ReelSistersoftheDiasporaFilmFestival
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PROJECT: HATCHED 2024
Chicken & Egg Pictures
DEADLINE: April 1, 2024
INFO: At Chicken & Egg Pictures, we believe that all nonfiction films, from the overtly political to films that are abstract or personal, have the power to impact their viewers, their communities, and beyond. We define impact as the transformative effect that films can have in creating personal, cultural, and/or social change, particularly for the individuals most affected by the issues addressed in the documentary. Through this program, we aim to support filmmakers who have a strategic vision for the impact they want to achieve, while also embracing diverse interpretations of what “impact” and “engagement” mean, and how that can manifest throughout the lifespan of their film.
Project: Hatched will provide grants of $30,000 USD each to 10 directing teams from around the world, who have plans to strategize, build, and launch an impact campaign for their film.
The film must have been completed and premiered (see criteria for what constitutes a premiere in the Eligibility section) between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024. You can start an application anytime during the open call period, but please only submit an application if your premiere occurs within that time frame. If you don’t have a confirmed premiere yet, please refrain from submitting an application.
We designed this program with flexibility in mind. Out of the $30,000 USD grant, a minimum of $15,000 USD must be allocated towards an impact campaign, and up to $15,000 USD can be used for post-production/completion expenses (including already incurred expenses) or distribution expenses (such as marketing, festival fees, sales agent fees, etc). In addition to funding, grantees will become part of our AlumNest community, which provides peer support and deeper connections in the documentary film industry.
ELIGIBILITY
*New eligibility updates for 2024*
In addition to the eligibility criteria listed below this section, the following additions have been made:
Films previously supported by Chicken & Egg Pictures are now eligible to apply.
Community screening premieres are now eligible to apply. Eligible screenings are considered to be at venues with a minimum seating capacity of approximately 50 or more people.
Please continue reading below for the full eligibility criteria.
APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY:
To be eligible for this grant, filmmakers must meet the following criteria:
Must identify as a woman (cis or trans) or gender-expansive director.
Our working definition of gender-expansive is that it is an umbrella term that includes any person whose gender identity (including but not limited to non-binary, trans, third gender/two spirit, agender) or gender expression does not comply with the socially defined gender norms and roles of their culture.
If you are unsure of whether you are gender-expansive, please refer to the gender expansion page on our website for more information.
Must be committed to implementing an impact campaign for the film.
Can be based anywhere in the world, except for the countries which are under comprehensive US sanctions, which include: Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and the following regions of Ukraine: Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk. Further information on why filmmakers based in these countries/regions are ineligible to apply can be found here.
If you are originally from these countries/regions but are based outside of them, you are still eligible to apply.
Please note: If you are making a film that takes place in one of these countries/regions, you may apply, but you will not be able to spend the grant in such countries/regions.
Note: Filmmakers who have previously received support from Chicken & Egg Pictures are eligible to apply to Project: Hatched 2024, whether they are applying with a film that has already received support or a completely new film.
FILM ELIGIBILITY:
Applicants to this grant must submit a film for consideration that meets the following criteria:
Must be a documentary or nonfiction film (including hybrid docs).
Can be of any length, whether short, medium, or feature.
Must have been completed and premiered between April 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024. Eligible premieres include:
Festival premiere: Any festival is eligible as long as the film has world premiere status). You must submit a screenshot or link to a public page of the festival showing the premiere date and premiere status.
Community screening: We consider eligible community screenings that take place at verifiable venues with a minimum seating capacity of approximately 50+ people. To qualify for the community screening premiere, you will need to:
Verify the venue and the community screening event. Please provide one of the following:
A link or a screenshot to the venue listing the event
A link to a social media listing or website with information about the venue and event details.
Confirm the venue’s seating capacity. Please provide a link or screenshot to the venue’s seating capacity, often listed on the venue’s rental/logistics webpage.
Must be planning for a continued release or distribution, whether that is theatrical, educational or broadcast.
Must have clear impact goals and objectives.
The film is not eligible if:
It does not meet the eligibility requirements listed above.
It is a series.
It is a VR or interactive project.
Its plans are solely limited to a marketing strategy.
For more details, please review the full list of FAQs at the end of this page. If you have any questions regarding our open call that are not addressed in the FAQs, you can contact us at ph_opencall@chickeneggpics.org.
TIMELINE:
January 16, 2024: Project: Hatched application opens.
April 1, 2024, at 3:00 PM ET: Project: Hatched application deadline.
April-July 2024: Chicken & Egg Pictures processes and reviews applications in a two-round process.
August 2024: All applicants are notified of final decisions.
August – September 2024: Grants disbursed and introductory calls are conducted with grantees.
December 2024: 4-month check-in: written status update
April 2025: 8-month check-in: written status update and final calls with grantees.
chickeneggpics.org/programs/#project-hatched
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Bayard Rustin Residency
Penington Friends House
DEADLINE: April 1, 2024
INFO: We are currently accepting applications for the 2024-2025 Bayard Rustin Residency.
Building on the social activist history of Penington’s founders, original board, and later residents, the Bayard Rustin Residency at Penington Friends House (PFH) is envisioned as an ongoing ladder to empowerment for Black Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) working to end Systemic Racism and to create a culture of anti-Racism and intersectional equality in the United States of America. It is also intended to extend and strengthen the wider Quaker witness to equality.
Beginning in September of 2024, this residency will provide up to one year of room and board to a person who demonstrates a strong project that addresses ending Systemic Racism and who has a necessity to be in New York City for up to one year. They will reside at the Penington Friends House located in New York City’s Lower East Side of Manhattan. The Bayard Rustin Resident will demonstrate a need to live in Manhattan. Areas of focus of their work can include activism in the arts, policy change, human rights, community organizing, and other areas of activism focusing on ending racism and strengthening equality. Residents will meet regularly with the Residency Manager and will be expected to share their progress with the New York City community in the form of presentations or workshops.
The resident does not have to be Quaker but their work should be shaped by and in harmony with our tenants of Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship. The resident will be expected to be a full-time resident of PFH and be participating member of this intentional community. This includes eating chef prepared dinners with the other residents and participating in shared light house chores. (1 1/2 hour commitment per week on average.) The Penington Friends House’s approach to living collaboratively may be new to you. We encourage to look at our website and instagram account (@Penington_friends_house) to gain a better understanding of what we are. Feel free to call us as well with questions. We are LGBTQ embracing community. We believe Black Lives Matter. We are always working to be a safe space and an anti-racist community.
Resident selection is made through a BIPOC committee of Quakers and non-Quakers and is based on the strength of the applicants work and proposed project. Final approval of the Bayard Rustin resident is made by the Penington Friends House Residents and staff, in the same interview process that all other residents are approved to live at the Penington. Applicants should note that the Bayard Rustin Resident bedroom is on the 4th floor of an historic Brownstone. An elevator is not available. Bathrooms are shared with other floor residents. This residency covers the cost of rent, boarding (food) provided 5 nights a week, internet, cable, and heat/AC. A stipend and studio space is NOT currently provided.
Here are a few types of artists and activists activities that we would be interested in considering. Please contact us before applying if you are not sure your project would fit our call.
An artist working on a body of art that addresses racism and/or intersectional issues.
A writer working on a new book, play, screenplay, or collection that addresses racism and/or intersectional issues.
A performer creating a new dance piece that addresses racism and/or intersectional issues.
A community based artist designing or carrying out a community based project that addresses racism and/or intersectional issues.
An activist organizing communities to address racism and/or intersectional issues.
A social entrepreneur that is starting a non-profit focused on addressing racism and/or intersectional issues.
An inventor or designer working on solving a problem associated with systemic racism and/or intersectional issues.
A graduate student that has a strong and well defined anti-racism project that needs support and time to launch.
Background
The residency is named after Bayard Rustin who was a Quaker and an attender at 15th Street Monthly Meeting in New York City. This meeting (Quaker house of worship) is next to the Penington Friends House. Rustin worked commitedly for the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. He was an advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on nonviolence. Rustin was also a chief organizer of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom and a founding member of the Freedom Riders. He was an early advocate for gay rights. Rustin’s later work included a heavy focus on refugee affairs. Rustin served as Vice Chairman of the International Rescue Committee, helped to found the National Emergency Coalition for Haitian Refugees, and was Chairman of the Executive Committee of Freedom House. He died in 1987. In 2013, President Barack Obama posthumously awarded Rustin the Presidential Medal of Freedom. ( Source rustinfund.org)
penington.org/rustin-residency/
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2024–25 American Library in Paris Visiting Fellowship
The American Library in Paris
DEADLINE: April 1, 2024
INFO: The American Library in Paris Visiting Fellowship was created in 2013 to nurture and sustain a heritage as old as the Library itself: deepening French-American understanding. The Visiting Fellowship offers writers and researchers an opportunity to pursue a creative project in Paris for a month or longer while participating actively in the life of the American Library.
There are two one-month Fellowship periods a year in fall and spring, with dates to be specified later.
A $5,000 stipend will be paid before start of a Fellowship period. The award, to be spent at the discretion of the Fellow, is designed to cover travel to Paris, accommodation, and expenses associated with the month in Paris. In addition to the stipend, the Library will connect the fellow to resources and people in Paris that could be helpful to his or her project.
The American Library in Paris Visiting Fellowship is made possible through the generous support of The de Groot Foundation.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
We welcome the applications of all researchers, journalists, writers (both fiction and non-fiction), poets, screenwriters, playwrights, directors, and documentary filmmakers.
Applicants should be researching or working on a project that contributes to cross-cultural discourse. Particular attention will be paid to an applicant’s ability to offer the Library’s community a variety of opportunities for exploring a topic. All topics and subject matters are eligible.
Applicants need not be American. International applicants are encouraged. The proposed project must be in English. Members of the Library governance are not eligible recipients of a Visiting Fellowship.
WHAT IS EXPECTED OF VISITING FELLOWS?
Visiting Fellows must be in Paris during the period of the fellowship, and are expected to be present in the American Library for a minimum of three half-days a week. During their residency, fellows will present an hour-long evening program at the Library, participate in a Library reception, meet with staff informally to explore a topic of mutual interest, and extend the Library’s reach by participating in events arranged by the Library with other organizations in Paris.
At the conclusion of the Visiting Fellowship period, fellows will provide the Library and the funding foundation with a written report of the Fellowship experience. Fellows are expected to appropriately acknowledge the Library and the Visiting Fellowship in publications and print media related to the Fellowship project. Fellows will participate in the Library’s social media communication, fundraising campaigns, and other public events.
HOW TO APPLY?
This year’s application form asked applicants to provide a single file containing:
A cover letter (one page) and CV (two pages max.).
The narrative description of your project (one page max.). In this description, please indicate the timeline and current stage of the project, what you hope to accomplish during your residency period, and why a fellowship at the American Library will contribute to its success.
Three proposals (max. 50 words each) for cultural programs at the Library during your residency period. These can include evening conversations, workshops, performances, panels, or other event formats.
The names and contacts of two professional references.
A one-time application fee of 30 €.
americanlibraryinparis.org/visiting-fellowship
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Sesame Workshop Writers' Room
Sesame Workshop
DEADLINE: April 8, 2024 by 12pm EST
INFO: Sesame Workshop Writers’ Room is a writing fellowship from the creators of Sesame Street.
Fresh new writing talent that reflect the diversity of our vast audience. Emerging storytellers who are selected to join the Writers’ Room will receive hands-on writing experience guided by Sesame Street veterans and other media industry leaders. Each participant will develop and write a pilot script for their own original kids concept. Past fellows have gone on to develop their own original content with Sesame Workshop, as well as write for Sesame Street and various programs at Nickelodeon, Disney, DreamWorks, and more! Learn about the 2023 fellows and speakers below.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
Up to 8 writers will be selected
Sessions are expected to take place virtually from July to August 2024
Learn from industry writers, producers, agents and executives
Learn and complete all steps of creating an original pilot episode script
Includes eight, three-hour sessions on creating original children’s content
Up to two participants will have the opportunity to receive creative development deals and further mentorship
APPLICATION CHECK LIST:
Application form: Application must be submitted by April 8th, 2024 12PM EST.
Original script sample: 11-page maximum; should NOT contain Sesame Street elements, characters, or intellectual property; can be an excerpt from a larger piece wholly written by the applicant; must model a 3 act story structure; and be kid-friendly content for viewers up to age 12…we’re looking for great characters and stories that inspire kids to be smarter, stronger and kinder!
Resumes: 2-page maximum. Anything longer will be disqualified. More info on your script: what’s the bigger picture/idea of your script sample? (up to 100 words)
Personal statement: tell us about yourself, for example, why you want to write for children’s educational media, how your experiences influence the stories you tell, why you value diversity/representation in children’s media, etc. (up to 250 words)
ELIGIBILITY CHECK LIST:
Participants must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
No extensive media writing experience, such as having written more than six episodes for a network or cable scripted/narrative series
Participants must be 21+ years old
Participants must be able to attend and complete writing assignments for all 8 sessions, which will be held virtually from June to August 2024