call for films: SAWCC Short Film Night
South Asian Womxn’s Creative Collective (SAWCC)
DEADLINE: August 2, 2026
INFO: Ever wanted to see some movies, but wish they were… short? Introducing SAWCC Short Film Night!
SAWCC is looking for South Asian women and gender-expansive artists to share their stories. They want to curate a mix of films and media from animated shorts to documentaries to scripted films – you name it, they’re interested!
Directors will be asked to speak on a (short) Q&A after the screening and we will give preference to those who can attend the event.
EVENT DETAILS:
Friday September 18 from 7-9pm at Stuart Cinema
37-18 Northern Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11101
docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScFQWJC9hlHaobJmlrL0DuVlvLKioUiFIdBVEIBzB2QkpY1TA/viewform
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Black Boy Writes & Black Girl Writes Mentorship Initiative
DEADLINE / FEES:
Early Bird - August 15, 2026 / $25
Regular - August 31, 2026 / $50
Final - September 30, 2026 / $75
INFO: The Black Boy Writes & Black Girl Writes Mentorship Initiative, which launched at the start of 2021, is dedicated to supplying industry access and resources to preWGA Black screenwriters.
The program is international and you don’t have to live in Los Angeles to be considered. Most of the programming is virtual, but out-of-town and international mentees will be flown in at the beginning of the year for the class kick-off and again for the end-of-year class retreat.
The goal of the program is to position and equip Black writers with the resources and knowledge to acquire representation, a staffed writing position, and/or optioned content.
PRIZES:
Monthly Writer Roundtables with established writers/industry leaders. Past participants include D’Lo Louis (Proximity Media), Deneise Davis (One of Them Days), Ahmadou Seck (VP Scripted, MACRO), Golden Globe Winning Writer Kemp Powers (Soul, One Night in Miami), Kay Oyegun (This is Us), Oscar Winner Peter Ramsey (Co-Director, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse).
Writing workshops to fine-tune their scripts and prepare them for fellowships, generals, and staffing opportunities.
General meetings with Networks and Production Companies. Past participants include Hartbeat, Gilga, FX, Netflix, Hooray Media, Nick Jr., Mattel, Plan B, Macro, and MarVista.
Each mentee will receive the latest in Final Draft software.
Mentees will have access to program mentors/industry professionals: Jackie Penn (4400, The Catch, Turner & Hooch), Andre Ferguson (Power Book II: Ghost), Chris Sanford (Reasonable Doubt), Kira Talise (Wonder Man), Past guest mentors include Steven Canals (Creator, Pose), and Sara Finney Johnson (Creator, Moesha and The Parkers).
At the end of the program, each mentee will have the opportunity to be read by Mike Gauyo’s agents at Culture Creative and Lit Managers at M88, for representation consideration.
Community with the Black Boy & Black Girl Writes Mentorship Alumni Network.
RULES & GUIDELINES:
All applicants must be pre-WGA to qualify. Meaning you must not be a member of the Writers Guild of America.
The first round of the application process will require a bio, one TV half-hour script or one TV one-hour script (of any genre), and a short essay. Multi-cams are accepted.
Half-hour scripts can't be more than 35 pages. One-hour scripts can't be more than 65 pages.
Applicants who reach the third round will interview with Mike Gauyo and his Chief of Programming, Heather Daughtry, before the new cohort is selected.
Mentees accepted into the program must be able to attend all programming events. Exceptions will be made for individuals that have emergency conflicts.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Do I have to live in Los Angeles?
The program is international and you don’t have to live in Los Angeles to be considered.
What are the program committments?
This mentorship program is a year-long initiative that provides a pathway to eliminating barriers to entry. Most of the programming is virtual, however, mentees are required to attend two in-person events: the commencement weekend for the class kick-off, and the end-of-year retreat to close out the program.
Is there an age requirement?
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
Can I submit my feature film?
No. Please submit either a TV half-hour script or one TV one-hour script, of any genre.
Half-hour scripts can't be more than 35 pages. One-hour scripts can't be more than 65 pages.
scrybe.to/competitions/black-boy-writes-black-girl-writes-mentorship-initiative
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NEWNARRATIVES
New Filmmakers LA
DEADLINE: August 18, 2026 at 3:00pm PT
INFO: Originally launched in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery 150 in 2021, NewNarratives, presented by NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA), enters its sixth year in 2026 as an initiative dedicated to discovering the next generation of independent storytellers. The program identifies exceptional emerging creative voices and provides the funding, mentorship, industry access, and visibility needed to transform ambitious ideas into impactful films and series. By investing in artists whose stories transcend borders, challenge convention, and expand the cultural conversation, NewNarratives helps cultivate the future of global independent storytelling.
Thanks to the continued support of the Rhulen Family Foundation, honoring acclaimed independent producer Anthony Rhulen (The Butterfly Effect), NewNarratives will award $35,000 USD in cash grants during the 2026 cycle across three distinct funding opportunities designed to support projects at various stages of development and production.
NEWNARRATIVES GRANTS:
The main NewNarratives Grant category will award four (4) grants of $5,000 USD each to support emerging filmmakers developing short films, feature films, or episodic series (fiction, documentary, live-action, animation, or experimental) at any stage of the creative process. Eligible projects may be in concept development, early development, pre-production, production, post-production, or audience strategy and distribution planning.
NEWNARRATIVES ENVIRONMENTAL STORYTELLING GRANT:
Supported by Athens Services, this category will award one (1) grant of $5,000 USD to a short film (fiction, documentary, live-action, animation, or experimental) currently in post-production that meaningfully explores themes of climate, environmental sustainability, conservation, or humanity's relationship with the natural world. This grant celebrates filmmakers using the power of storytelling to inspire greater awareness, dialogue, and action around the environmental challenges shaping our communities and our future.
NEWNARRATIVES ABSURD AI STORYTELLING GRANT:
Supported by Absurd, this category will award one (1) $10,000 USD grant to an emerging filmmaker developing a short or feature film, across fiction, live action, animation, or experimental work, at any stage of production. The grant will be accompanied by a three-month fellowship supporting the awarded artist as they explore using Absurd’s AI storytelling tools as a way to reimagine what independent filmmaking can look like with AI. Absurd will begin onboarding beta users on August 3, 2026.
AWARD ANNOUNCEMENT: September 8th, 2026 at 11:00am PT
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Applicant must have written, directed or produced at least one project that has been accepted into a film festival or industry recognized development competition (such as a screenplay contest)
NewNarratives grant applicants’ projects must be a live-action narrative, experimental, animated and/or documentary short or feature or episodic series, in any stage of production. For the NewNarratives Environmental Storytelling Grant and the NewNarratives Absurd AI Storytelling Grant, the project must adhere to the guidelines outlined in those grant categories
Applicant may only submit one project in total, including projects on which you share a credit. Content must be written or created by the applicant. The proposed project must be original and unreleased
Application’s material must be written in English
Applicant must be able and willing to complete the project if funding is awarded
Applicant must be willing to sign project submission release
Applicant must be or become a Rising Creator or Champion level member of NewFilmmakers Los Angeles
REQUIRED SUBMISSION ITEMS:
Work sample of previously completed narrative, experimental or documentary feature, short or episodic project or a script that has been selected for an industry recognized development competition (such as a screenplay contest)
Video work samples must include English subtitles for any content not in English language
All submitted project materials must be in English
Treatment (no longer than 2 pages)
Concept deck (no longer than 12 pages)
Project synopsis of project (no longer than one paragraph)
Working title
Submitter biography
Submitter statement
All items must adhere to applicable character count limits
If applying for the environmental awareness grant, you must submit a link to your short film that qualifies per the guidelines and is in its post-production phase
newfilmmakersla.com/NewNarratives/
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Merrell Brand-Supported Storytelling Program
Sundance Collab x Merrell
DEADLINE: August 18, 2026 11:59 pm PT
INFO: In collaboration with Sundance Collab, Merrell is launching a global storytelling program built to bring its brand platform, It Starts Outside, to life through emotionally grounded, culturally resonant films.
This program explores the simple power of being outside through stories about people, perspective, and transformation. Moving beyond traditional advertising, the focus is on social-first storytelling rooted in real moments, real communities, and human truth.
Through a series of original social-first short films, selected filmmakers will explore how stepping outside can spark connection, renewal, and personal change.
THE CHALLENGE: We are seeking five filmmakers from around the world to each create their own original, 60-90 second film designed specifically for vertical social platforms. Your mission is to explore Merrell’s core belief, It Starts Outside, for a world that is increasingly lived indoors. From our homes to our screens, we are more disconnected than ever. The outside is the antidote. It is where we find reset and reconnection to culture, community, perspective, and even ourselves. It is Merrell’s purpose as a brand to share the simple power of the outside with everyone. We are seeking filmmakers who share that belief and mission and want to inspire the world to do the same.
Selected filmmakers will enter an intensive online program over three days in September designed to learn about collaborating with a brand. The filmmakers will then receive $20K to make and deliver their greenlit concepts, cutdowns (:06, :15, :30), and stills between October and December, with designated program check-ins.
THE CREATIVE BRIEF: IT STARTS OUTSIDE:
Submission Requirement: How would you approach this brief? (Up to 500 words)
Objective: Create a concept or “take” for a 60-90 second, vertical film that captures a complete, emotionally resonant story rooted in the "simple power of being outside". We are not looking for a "commercial;" it is a human story where the outside acts as a catalyst for change.
Foundation: Merrell believes transformation begins the moment we step outside. The outside is not defined by terrain, performance, or distance. It is defined by what it unlocks in people.
Your story should reflect:
Transformation: A moment of reset, reconnection, or personal shift.
Connection: A sense of belonging, community, or renewed relationship.
Human truth: An observed, emotionally grounded moment that feels real.
Built from Merrell’s 2026 repositioning and “It Starts Outside” brand platform, the core creative territory is not 'outdoor adventure' in the traditional sense. The strongest stories will show what changed in a person because they went outside, whether it's emotionally, physically, mentally, creatively, spiritually, psychologically, or other. This does not necessarily equate to a final achievement.
TIMELINE:
Selected artists notified by Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Merrell Brand-Supported Storytelling Program (periodic online sessions): September - December 2026
Merrell Brand-Supported Storytelling Intensive (online): September 30- October 2, 2026
Production: October 2026
Post-Production: November 2026
Delivery: December 14, 2026
To learn more about the brief and how to apply, join our upcoming Insider Session with Merrell’s Creative Director, Alex Ho and Sundance Collab Director, Patty West on August 11.
collab.sundance.org/catalog/Merrell-Brand-Supported-Storytelling-Program
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Shore Scripts Short Film Fund
Shore Scripts
DEADLINE:
Early – August 20, 2026
Regular — September 30, 2026
Final — October 30, 2026
INFO: The 2026 Fall Season of the Shore Scripts Short Film Fund will award a $15,000 cash production grant to one short script and $4,000 cash in finishing funds to one short film in post-production.
The Short Film Fund offers an opportunity for emerging screenwriters and filmmakers to receive much-needed financial support to get their work produced and distributed. Our partnerships with ARRI Rental, Oscar-nominated producer Maria Gracia Turgeon, and Tribeca short film programmer Kimberley Browning elevate the films that come through our Fund with free camera equipment, mentorship, and film festival strategy.
Many of our 28 previously funded short films have screened at some of the top film festivals in the world, including Sundance, Tribeca, BFI London, Austin, Cannes, Encounters, and Palm Springs. One even won a BAFTA! Several of those writers and writer/directors have gone on to gain representation, sell screenplays, get staffed on Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, & BBC shows, and develop their shorts into features and TV shows.
SUMMARY OF BENEFITS:
The Grand Prize Winner will receive a cash production grant of $15,000, free camera equipment rental from ARRI Rental for the duration of production, and support from Shore Scripts from development to distribution.
The Finishing Funds Winner will receive a cash grant of $4,000 in finishing funds for a short film currently in post-production, and support from Shore Scripts through post-production and distribution.
Both Winners will connect with two-time Oscar-nominated producer MARIA GRACIA TURGEON for project and career guidance, receive a film festival strategy package from Tribeca programmer KIMBERLEY BROWNING, and have the opportunity to have their completed films circulated to select members of our Industry Roster.
Top 5 Finalists (production grant) will receive feedback on their script from one of our esteemed Judges.
Top 15 Finalists (production grant) will have the opportunity to have their scripts circulated to select members of our Directors Roster.
Finalists (finishing funds) will receive feedback on the rough cut of their film from one of our esteemed Judges.
shorescripts.com/shortfilmfund/
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Sundance Episodic Program 2027
Sundance Institute
DEADLINE: August 25, 2026
INFO: The Sundance Institute Episodic Program is an entry point for emerging to mid-career writers and creators across all scripted series platforms. Through a rigorous lab experience and customized support, the program provides artists with the knowledge and industry access to move their projects and careers forward.
The Episodic Lab offers writers an opportunity to workshop an original pilot and develop their writing and pitching skills. Working with accomplished showrunners, producers, and executives, the fellows participate in one-on-one story meetings, pitching sessions, craft workshops, and writers rooms, which altogether provide creative and strategic tools to develop their pilots and navigate the industry.
AWARDS + PRIZES: From these submissions, one project will be selected and awarded a separate monetary grant provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation that spotlights a series with an illuminating emphasis on any subject of science, including but not limited to medicine, energy, technology, and invention.
RULES + TERMS: The official rules (“Rules”) govern the submission of materials to the Sundance Institute (“Institute”) 2027 Episodic Program (the “Program”). The submission window opens on July 13, 2026 at 12:00 a.m. Pacific Time (“PT”) and ends on August 25, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. PT (“Application Period”).
Each applicant (as defined below) has the opportunity to create and submit an original television script (“Script”) and other pertinent information (together, the “Application”) to Institute to be considered for acceptance into the Program. Institute may select up to ten (10) Applicants to receive the opportunity to further develop their Script either through 1) virtual workshops leading up to the in-person episodic lab (or through an online platform, if necessary, as determined by Institute) (“Lab”), or 2) a virtual intensive which will take place entirely online (“Intensive”), as set forth more fully below.
By agreeing to the Terms And Conditions found on the Program submission form located at https://filmfreeway.com/SundanceEpisodicLab2027, the person or people submitting the Script (each an “Applicant”, who may also be referred to herein as "you" or "your") acknowledges and agrees that they have obtained consent from any and all co-writers or other individuals with rights in and to the Script (hereafter called the “Script Owners”). By submitting the application, Applicant agrees that they have read, understood, and will comply with the Rules set forth below:
ELIGIBILITY:
The Program is open to international and U.S. participants, subject to international travel guidelines and restrictions. By submitting an application, each Applicant agrees to be bound by these Rules and the decisions of the Selection Advisory Committee, which are final and binding on all matters relating to this Program. The Program is subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must be 18 years of age or older at time of application.
The Script must be the Applicant’s original creation or adapted from optioned source material. The Script must be written in the English language.
The Script draft must be revised or new, not already produced; not already sold to a third party; and not distributed online or otherwise.
Applicants cannot have already had an episodic project (pilot or pitch) that has been produced by a studio or network in the past.
The Script shall not infringe the copyright or any other proprietary right of another individual or entity. The Applicant is responsible for all rights pertaining to the project (including the Script).
filmfreeway.com/SundanceEpisodicLab2027
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MediaMaker Fellowship
BAVC Media
DEADLINE: August 30, 2026 at 11:59pm PT
INFO: The MediaMaker Fellowship is devoted to supporting documentary filmmakers using bold cinematic language and innovative impact strategies to grapple with critical issues of our time.
Our cohort is a collaborative, community-driven space that places diversity, representation, and ethical relationships with storytelling at the forefront of our practice. We aim to build a safe space for filmmakers to workshop their films, establish critical bonds and relationships, and gain valuable insights as they go on to build their careers in the field. We seek candidates who have the potential to impact our understanding of how documentaries can transform the world, as well as expanding the quality of the art of nonfiction.
OFFERINGS + STRUCTURE:
This ten-month-long program supports the development of documentary projects that are nearing post-production, and includes:
$10,000 distributed to each Fellow over the course of the Fellowship (plus additional travel per diems)
Professional mentorship and strategy sessions focused on documentary storytelling, career sustainability, fundraising, distribution, and more.
Two San Francisco convenings (travel paid) comprised of immersive tailored workshops, intimate feedback sessions, and presentations by leading filmmakers and industry figures.
All-access pass, round trip flight, accommodations, and a customized itinerary for two film festivals or industry conferences assuming travel is safe and advisable. All plans are subject to change according to pandemic restrictions and best practices, as well as the availability of festival programs.
Consistent workshops and check-ins, 1-3 hours in length, scheduled in advance, throughout the year.
A built-in support network.Opportunities for continued mentorship and support in the future as a MediaMaker alum.
All Fellowship applicants and Fellowship alumni are eligible for five hours of one-on-one mentorship through the BAVC MediaMaker Connect Mentorship Program.
ELIGIBILITY:
The MediaMaker Fellowship program is particularly interested in supporting a diverse cross-section of media creators from across the U.S. who are in the process of directing their first or second feature-length documentary. Candidates who have directed a feature previously should take care to clearly demonstrate in their application that this project represents a significant creative leap compared with any previous work and make a strong case for why they need a collaborative fellowship experience at this stage of their career. Above all, ideal candidates should demonstrate a strong capacity for artistic growth and willingness to participate in peer mentorship and collaborative learning experiences with a diverse cohort of other filmmakers.
The applicant should be the Director and the creative lead of their project – applying as an individual. They must be the only person on their filmmaking team who is applying this year. If they are part of a Co-Directing team they should discuss this program with their partner and together determine which person would most benefit from and have the capacity to participate in a fellowship of this nature at this juncture. This Fellowship required significant time and energy over the course of nine months and applicants should be prepared for the commitment to their cohort if selected. Full time students are not eligible for the fellowship.
The project you are applying with should be a feature length film (shorts, series, and podcasts are not eligible), non-commercial (meaning the film is not being created for a market audience with the intent of generating income through the promotion of products, services, or organizations), primarily documentary or non-fiction in nature (this includes hybrid docs which are encouraged to apply), and should have the potential for social impact (social impact can be defined in many ways and is in no way restricted to policy outcomes).
Eligible films will have at least begun production and may have started post-production. A project would be considered too far along to benefit from the Fellowship if a fine cut is expected before the end of the program year. Projects should be in a place to benefit from workshopping (scenes, story, structure, edit, etc.) with the cohort and seasoned guest filmmakers. This is not a fellowship for filmmakers who are still in early development on their project.
Though there is no citizenship requirement for the Fellowship, at this time the program cannot support Fellows who are primarily based outside of the U.S. Applicants must primarily reside in the United States and not expect to reside outside of the U.S. for a major part of the year.
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Screenwriting Lab
Film Independent
DEADLINE / APPLICATION FEE:
August 31, 2026 / $65 for non-Members
September 14, 2026 / $45 for Film Independent Members
FREE for Filmmaker Pro Members (limited to one waived fee per Membership year)
INFO: The Screenwriting Lab is a two-week workshop held in the first quarter of the year, designed to provide individualized story and career development for emerging screenwriters with a fiction feature screenplay.
Each Screenwriting Fellow will be paired with a Creative Advisor, with whom they’ll work one-on-one and in group sessions to further develop their project over the course of the program. The Screenwriting Lab also helps to further the careers of its Fellows by introducing them to film industry veterans who can offer guidance on both the craft and business of screenwriting. A variety of guest speakers may screen and discuss their own films and offer career insights, and a final pitch event offers further opportunity for individualized feedback and discussion with industry executives.
WHO CAN APPLY?
The Screenwriting Lab is open to any writer applying with a completed draft of a feature-length project they wish to workshop during the program, with an eye toward production. More details available in the FAQ section below.
HOW TO APPLY:
Applicants must submit the following materials for consideration:
A cover letter detailing what drew you to apply to the Screenwriting Lab and why this is the right time for you to participate in the program (500 words max)
One complete, feature-length screenplay
An artist statement explaining the genesis of the story, your creative vision and intentions for the film (750 words max)
A look book (optional)
A logline (25 words) and synopsis for the film
Bios of attached key cast and crew, if any – Attachments are not required for consideration
Project status and history, including any relevant development history, awards received or labs and/or markets attended with the project
A narrative directing sample, if you plan on directing the film with which you are applying
FAQs:
Screenwriting Lab is for writers only; other collaborators are not invited to participate.
Writing partners/teams are welcome to apply and need only submit one application.
We are open to filmmakers at any level of experience.
International applicants are eligible; the script must be translated into English for consideration.
Adaptations are eligible; the applicant must retain rights to the underlying material.
At this time, documentary, short film and television projects are not eligible to apply.
We will reconsider projects that have previously been submitted, provided the writer(s) can demonstrate progress on the project and/or professional development.
Filmmakers may apply to multiple Film Independent Artist Development programs and there is no requirement to have participated in any one program before another.
Please note: Each applicant must be the author of the script they submit.
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 $105.
Applicants will be notified three to four weeks prior to the start of the program.
Applicants who are invited to participate in the program should plan to be in Los Angeles for the duration of the Lab. Film Independent is unable to subsidize any travel, lodging and/or visa expenses for any participants attending from outside of Los Angeles. Participants are expected to attend all sessions in person.
For more information, please email: artistdevelopment@filmindependent.org.
To learn more about Film Independent Fellows and their projects, visit our Talent Guide.
filmindependent.org/programs/artist-development/screenwriting-lab/
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storyknife writers retreat
Storyknife |📍Homer, AK
DEADLINE: August 31, 2026
APPLICATION FEE: $45.00
INFO: Women’s stories are vital and important. Currently, those stories whether expressed in poems, plays, novels, essays, or memoirs are not published, reviewed, or promoted as often as the work of men. Storyknife provides women with the time and space to explore their craft without distraction. Every aspect of a residency at Storyknife is steeped in a profound generosity of spirit so that each writer knows she and her work are valuable. Storyknife residents carry away both this affirmation and a living community of women writers to assist their valuable work wherever they go.
Residencies at Storyknife in Homer, Alaska, are either for two or four weeks. Resident’s food and lodging is covered during the period of their residency, but travel to and from Homer, Alaska, is the responsibility of the resident. Residents stay in individual cabins & dine at the main house. An on-staff chef is responsible for food preparation.
Four week residencies begin on the 1st of each month and end on the 28th, April through October. Two week residencies are held in April, June, and August and begin on the 1st of each month and end on the 14th OR begin on the 15th and end on the 28th.
Please make sure that you subscribe to our newsletter below or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
ELIGIBILITY:
Applicants must:
Be woman-identified
Be 21 years of age or older
Apply as an individual artist, not a collaborative group or team
Writers who have been in residency for a minimum of two-weeks at Storyknife must wait five years before they can re-apply for another residency.
Please note that for the 2027 residency season, the Board of Directors of Storyknife strongly suggests that all residents must be vaccinated and appropriately boosted against COVID-19.
You will provide a work sample and answer four questions (each answer 300 words or fewer).
How have you sought to educate yourself as a writer? (Formal education not a prerequisite, but evidence of curiosity and learning in your applicable genre is.)
What is your experience with publishing your work? (Publishing is not a prerequisite but is considered a goal for writers who attend Storyknife.)
What project will you pursue while in residency? (Please note that you will be free to work on whatever writing you wish during residency. We simply are interested in what you think you’ll be pursuing.)
Why would a writing residency benefit you at this time especially?
WRITING SAMPLE REQUIREMENTS:
Writing samples should reflect work completed within the last two years. All writing samples must be uploaded through Submittable. Written work samples will be uploaded directly within the application.
Applicants can submit published or unpublished writing samples.
All writing samples must be combined into one PDF file.
A writing sample not to exceed 10 pages (prose: double-spaced 12 point font, poetry: single-spaced 12 point font acceptable). Prose includes screenplays and stage plays which also must conform to the 10 page limit.
This is an anonymous jurying process. Any writing samples with identifying material will be disqualified (including in the file name). Do not include your last name, address, or publication credits in your writing sample (including the file name). This only refers to the writing sample, not the answers to the questions.
TRAVEL FUNDS: In 2027, there will be multiple opportunities for travel cost stipends. Those that want to be considered for travel funds will indicate so on their applications.
QUESTIONS? If you have questions regarding your eligibility or preparing your application, contact executive director, Erin Hollowell, at ehollowell@storyknife.org.
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2026 BLACK LIST PARENTHOOD WRITERS FELLOWSHIP
The Black List
DEADLINE: September 1, 2026 by 11:59pm PT
INFO: The Black List is thrilled to announce that it has partnered with the Van Leer Foundation, Equimundo, The Human Safety Net, and the American Institute for Boys and Men to launch the 2026 Black List Parenthood Writers Fellowship.
The Parenthood Fellowship will support four writers in developing compelling, evidence-informed film or television scripts about parenthood as a transformative human experience. Scripts must focus on the beginning of life, stories about pregnancy and becoming a parent and how the transition into motherhood and fatherhood reshapes who we are - especially during the rollercoaster of the first 5 years. Each writer will receive a $15,000 grant, creative mentorship, and expert input, with the goal of shifting cultural narratives and inspiring broader recognition of parenthood’s human and societal value.
During the Fellowship, each recipient will be paired with an experienced creative mentor to support their rewrite, with whom they will meet three times. The writers will also be connected with a panel of experts who will provide the latest science and evidence on parenthood cutting across neuroscience, biology, psychology, anthropology and more to counter misconceptions and outdated tropes on parents and parenting. A cohort mentor will convene the writers monthly as a group for additional feedback and programming.
Fellows will have six (6) months to complete a revision of their script. The latter half of the Fellowship will focus on pitch development and industry education. At the end of the Fellowship, each recipient will provide a revised version of their script and will be invited to attend the 2027 Lights! Camera! Impact! Storyteller Gathering during the Venice Film Festival with their pitches. Lights! Camera! Impact! is an annual forum celebrating the power of storytelling hosted by The Human Safety Net in the heart of San Marco Piazza in Venice.
To be considered for the fellowship, writers must submit a completed feature-length screenplay or television pilot with strong parenthood themes. The script must be submitted in English; if the script is a translation, please indicate the original language it was written in and/or what language it will be produced in.
In order to submit, the writer’s project must be hosted on www.blcklst.com and have at least one Black List reader evaluation attached to their project. Writers can use existing reader evaluations and/or purchase a new evaluation. During the submission process, writers will also be asked to briefly explain why parenthood is an important theme in their work and how it resonates in their script.
Fifty (50) fee waivers are available for eligible projects. Writers can apply for a waiver on the program submission page. Receiving a waiver will allow a writer to submit a project for consideration at no cost to themselves. Waiver distribution will be prioritized by both demonstration of financial need and the underrepresented subject matter of the project. Writers will be asked to provide a brief explanation for why they need a waiver upon application. Waivers are only available for new projects that have not yet been hosted on the Black List website. Waivers will be approved at the partners and the Black List’s discretion.
Each fellowship recipient will retain complete ownership of their work.
WHAT MAKES A COMPELLING PARENTHOOD STORY?
The Fellowship is looking for projects with writers that are passionate about themes of early parenthood, becoming a parent, and/or caregiving. Scripts will be considered both for craft excellence and concept originality. Most of us are told our first story by our parents. Yet the story of becoming a parent: the fear, the transformation, the hilarious absurdity, the quiet heroism is rarely told. One of the most defining chapters of our lives often goes unseen. We are looking for projects that feel surprising, urgent, capture curiosity and reframes our understanding of why parenthood matters.
In order to ensure representation of diverse parenthood experiences, we will be selecting at least two projects that focus on fatherhood and/or male caregiving. These are stories that show that men are wired to care too. Stories that challenge the common sit-com trope of the incompetent dad. Stories that amplify the idea that caring men is not something that we need to create but rather something that we've always had all around us. We can all tell stories about a man who showed up for us, who cared for us. How do they look, how do they exercise their care muscles? How do they choose to lean into our superhuman power for interdependence?
We also want to ensure that we are selecting projects that reflect the international landscape of parenthood. We will select at least one project that is set in Europe, in one of the countries where The Human Safety Net is active, and that project will focus on families who are at risk of social exclusion with children aged 0 to 6.
RESOURCES:
“Tip Sheets for Content Creators: Writing with care about men and boys, family and caregiving” (Equimundo)
“This is Us? How TV Does and Doesn’t Get Men’s Caregiving” (Equimundo, Geena Davis Institute)
“What is Nurturing Care? Basic briefings on the concepts of early childhood and the core framework guiding all work” (Nurturing Care for Early Childhood Development)
“Brain Architecture: An ongoing process that begins before birth” (Harvard's Center on the Developing Child)
“The Best Start in Life: Early Childhood Development for Sustainable Development” (SDG Academy)
"Why Dads Matter" (University of Maryland, College of Education)
THE SELECTION PROCESS:
Writers who meet the submission requirements will be able to opt into consideration via the Black List website until midnight PST on September 1, 2026.
Based on the strength of their scripts as determined by the Black List’s script evaluations, a long list of up to forty (40) projects will be invited to submit a one-page personal statement, a professional resume, and a short essay on how their project engages with themes of parenthood. From those projects, up to ten (10) projects will be named to the short list. All short list writers will be interviewed by the Parenthood Fellowship committee.
Following those interviews, four fellowship recipients will be selected no later than October 30, 2026. The Fellowship will commence in November 2026.
NEW TO THE BLACK LIST?
If you are new to the Black List, register for a free account by clicking the “sign up” button in the upper right hand corner of your screen. Once you are logged in, you will be able to upload your script, purchase the mandatory minimum of one evaluation, and submit your script for Fellowship consideration. If you have any questions, please check out our FAQ or email us at support@blcklst.com.
REQUIREMENTS:
You must post an original screenplay or pilot teleplay (one hour or one half hour) on www.blcklst.com, with at least one (1) evaluation, and opt-in to the Program during the Submission Period. The materials should tell stories about parenthood as a transformative human experience. Scripts must focus on the beginning of life, stories about pregnancy and becoming a parent and how the transition into motherhood and fatherhood reshapes who we are - especially during the rollercoaster of the first 5 years.
You must agree to: (1) these Submission Requirements; (2) all terms relating to the Program posted on Black List’s website, which you should review and read in full; and (3) the Submission Agreement, which governs the submission of your material to Sponsors and Black List. The Submission Agreement includes important, legally binding terms and conditions, including arbitration of any disputes, which you must read in full before accepting.
If requested, you must submit (by a date determined by Sponsors and Black List) the following materials, which are also governed by the Submission Agreement:
Contact and other personal information;
Personal statements and any requested additional information; and
Executed originals of the Submission Agreement.
If selected for the Program, as a condition of your participation, you must agree to Sponsors and Black List’s terms of participation.
You must be at least 18 years of age and not a minor in the state or country of your residence at time of submission.
If the submitted materials are written by a team consisting of one or more writers: (i) each member of that writing team must comply with these Submission Requirements, including agreeing to the Submission Agreement described above; and (ii) all members of the writing team must opt-out of the Program if any other member becomes ineligible (including as a result of failing to timely agree to the Submission Agreement or failing to timely provide the materials listed above).
The submitted materials must be wholly original to you and you must be the sole owner of all rights. The submitted materials must not in any way infringe upon the copyright of any person or entity or, to the best of your knowledge in the exercise of reasonable prudence, constitute libel, defamation or invasion of privacy or any other rights of any third party. You understand and agree that Black List will share any information that you provide in connection with the Program with Sponsors.
blcklst.com/programs/2026-black-list-parenthood-fellowship
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The Renegades Launch Fund
Picture Story Studios
DEADLINE: September 1, 2026
INFO: Founded by indie production company Picture Story Studios, The Renegades Launch Fund provides emerging filmmakers with funding, practical education, production tools & templates, peer mentorship and community. We are building the kind of ecosystem many filmmakers need but struggle to find outside traditional institutions.
The system we ourselves wish existed.
Strong scripts stall every day because filmmakers lack access to budgets, schedules, collaborators, named talent, honest feedback, and a realistic next step. The Launch Fund was created to help close that gap and make sure your script doesn’t die on your hard drive.
Look, our mission is simple: connect storytellers to each other, demystify the industry, share resources, make great films that exist & more importantly, THRIVE outside of the mainstream system. This is our direct personal investment in those stories.
In our inaugural year, we received 112 submissions from 12 countries. Several of our selected projects went on to receive larger grants, awards, and industry recognition - and we take pride in amplifying those projects and providing that springboard.
Our readers and mentors are working filmmakers whose credits include A24, HBO, Netflix, Amazon, and more. Our feedback is personal, useful AND above all, affordable.
We work hustle jobs ourselves, we get it and we believe no artist should choose between advancing their career and paying rent that month.
Our fees are intentionally kept low and that’s the way we like it.
We are genre-agnostic. We care about voice, originality, emotional impact, production viability, and a filmmaker’s ability to articulate why this project needs to exist.
If the work is bold and unapologetic, we want to meet you.
Formerly The Renegades Micro Production Grant
AWARDS + PRIZES:
Grand Prize Winners: Two
*Package Worth: $2,095
One feature screenplay and one short screenplay will each receive:
$600 USD
A customized professional production schedule (by an industry AD who works on some of your favorite shows!)
A two-hour production and strategy consultation with Picture Story Studios
Six months of membership in The Renegades Filmmaker Community
Promotion through The Renegades newsletter, website, social media, and partner network
Tailored written feedback from a working director, writer or producer
Free submission to the next Launch Fund cycle
Consideration for a scholarship place at the inaugural 2027 Catskills Writers Retreat, subject to program availability and final terms
Runners-Up: Two
*Package Worth: $1,395
One feature screenplay and one short screenplay will each receive:
A customized professional production schedule
A one-hour production consultation with Renegades founder Natasha Rivera
Tailored written feedback
Six months of membership in The Renegades Filmmaker Community
Promotion through our newsletter, website, social media, and partner network
Free submission to the next Launch Fund cycle
Every Applicant Receives:
Brief written feedback from a human reader who thoughtfully engaged with the project
3 months of membership in The Renegades Filmmaker Community for access to writers groups, free seminars, networking events, and future funding opportunities
We take pride in our reviews and you'll never see a copy&paste communication from us.
Feedback is returned within three months of the notification date and is offered as guidance, not gospel. You know your story best. Take what serves the work and leave the rest.
filmfreeway.com/TheRenegadesProductionGrant
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WOMEN DIRECTING MENTORSHIP
SeriesFest x Shondaland
DEADLINES / FEES:
Regular -- September 15, 2026
Final - November 1, 2026
INFO: SeriesFest and Shondaland are honored to partner on our eighth cycle of the Women Directing Mentorship: A competition designed to discover aspiring female directors with unique voices and provide a launchpad for their careers. Founded in 2019, The Women Directing Mentorship is anchored by the prestigious opportunity to shadow a director on an episode of a Shondaland original series.
The 2027 winner will be announced at the thirteenth annual SeriesFest in Denver, Colorado! Creatives and the Television Industry will gather from around the world at SeriesFest: Season 13 to celebrate the impact of the Women’s Directing Mentorship Program during the annual festival.
ELIGIBILITY:
To qualify, you must have 3 years of professional experience (in any professional role, not just Director). This can include having experience directing independent shorts, series, and films.
Applicants who have previously directed a network series are ineligible.
Must be 21+ years of age.
Applicants should to be based in the United States or the United Kingdom.
No directing teams will be considered. We encourage you to apply individually.
ENTRY MATERIALS:
Work Sample
A short film or a feature
Personal Introduction Video
3–5 minute video introducing yourself, your unique voice and style, and why you think you’re the right fit for the Women Directing Mentorship. Be creative! (see examples below)
Reel
Reel under 15 minutes or a short film showcasing your directing work. This reel can include student work.
CV/Resume
Entry Fee
PRIZE:
The director selected for the Grand Prize will shadow a director for an episode of a Shondaland production. The cycle 8 winner and semi-finalists will receive an all-access badge to SeriesFest: Season 13 in 2027.
SeriesFest and Shondaland are committed to amplifying the finalists and recipient through editorial features, social media, and national press opportunities. Explore examples of media coverage on Variety, Forbes, Indiewire and more here and on SeriesFest.com and Shondaland.com.
If your work is selected, you must fulfill the following requirements by the date(s) designated by SeriesFest:
(1) You must execute a release agreement wherein you:
Indemnify and hold harmless SeriesFest, LLC, its parent company, its affiliates, and subsidiaries and any of their respective directors, officers, employees, and representatives against any claim arising out of exhibition of your film at SeriesFest.
(2) Agree to participate in a reasonable number of customary promotional and publicity activities [including press junkets, telephone interviews, sending press packages, and public appearances to promote the SeriesFest]
(3) You own the project IP and have the rights to any affiliated source material