The 2027 Graton Fellowship from Sundance Institute supports California Native filmmakers with funding, mentorship, and Sundance Film Festival participation to advance their film projects.
Funder: Sundance Institute
Due Dates: November 16, 2026
Funding Amounts: $25,000 each for two fellows; yearlong mentorship and festival support included
Summary: Supports California Native artists in film with funding, mentorship, and Sundance Film Festival access.
The fellowship aims to empower artists from federally and nonfederally recognized California Native tribes to share their stories through film. Two selected fellows will each receive a $25,000 cash grant, along with a year of comprehensive support. This includes mentorship from the Sundance Institute Indigenous Program staff, access to creative and professional development resources, participation in the Sundance Film Festival, and strategic support for their film projects. The program is designed to nurture unique California Native voices and increase representation in the film industry.