2027 Graton Fellowship
The 2027 Graton Fellowship by Sundance Institute supports California Native filmmakers with funding, mentorship, and resources to develop feature films or documentaries and showcase them at Sundance.
Funder: Sundance Institute
Due Dates: November 16, 2026: Application deadline
Funding Amounts: $25,000 per fellow (2 awarded); includes a year of mentorship and support
Summary: Supports California Native artists with funding, mentorship, and Sundance Film Festival participation to advance feature film or documentary projects.
Key Information: Open to artists from federally and nonfederally recognized California Native tribes; proof of tribal affiliation required.
Description
The Graton Fellowship, presented by the Sundance Institute, is designed to empower artists from California Native tribes—both federally and nonfederally recognized—to tell their stories through film. Two fellows will each receive a $25,000 cash grant for a feature-length narrative or documentary project that is in development or production. In addition to the financial award, fellows are provided with a yearlong continuum of creative support, including mentorship from Indigenous Program staff, professional development opportunities, access to Sundance Institute resources, and support to attend the Sundance Film Festival. The fellowship aims to elevate underrepresented California Native perspectives in film.
