Artist Accelerator
Sundance Institute's Artist Accelerator Program supports independent storytellers with fellowships, mentorship, and project grants to advance innovative media projects and foster equity in the field.
Funder: Sundance Institute
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2026 (Artist Accelerator application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Yearlong fellowships and project grants; typical grants range up to $25,000; number of awards and amounts vary by initiative.
Summary: Supports emerging and mid-career independent storytellers with financial, creative, and tactical resources to advance innovative projects and foster equity in the independent storytelling ecosystem.
Description
The Artist Accelerator Program at Sundance Institute is designed to empower emerging and mid-career independent storytellers by providing essential support in the form of fellowships, mentorship, project grants, and community-building initiatives. Launched in 2021, the program responds to the evolving needs of artists navigating a changing creative and economic landscape. It offers a range of opportunities, including yearlong fellowships, individualized mentorship, project advancement and completion grants (including unrestricted grants up to $25,000), and targeted support for underrepresented voices. The program also collaborates with peer organizations and agencies to expand access, equity, and sustainability in independent media, and drives field-wide impact through advocacy and leadership.
