Feature Film Program
Forecasted
Feature Film Program supports emerging independent fiction filmmakers through development labs, mentorship, fellowships, and grants to strengthen their stories and move projects toward audiences.
Funder: Sundance Institute
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (2028 Development Track application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Over $300,000 annually in fellowships and direct grants for Feature Film Program alumni
Summary: Supports emerging independent fiction filmmakers through screenplay development, labs, mentorship, fellowships, and grants from development through distribution.
Key Information: The Development Track supports first or second fiction features; the Directors Lab is invitation-only.
Description
Sundance Institute’s Feature Film Program supports independent filmmakers whose work reflects distinctive artistic vision and original, deeply resonant storytelling. Its Development Track provides access to the Screenwriters Lab, Screenwriters Intensive, and selected fellowships and grants. The program encourages experimentation, risk-taking, and rigorous creative development, bringing American and international artists into dialogue across cultural, political, and geographic boundaries.
The Directors Lab enables eight first-time fiction feature directors to workshop scenes with experienced creative advisors, followed by further screenplay development through a Screenwriters Lab. After lab participation, fellows receive customized creative and strategic assistance as their projects move toward production and audiences. Support includes designated mentors, crew and producer recommendations, works-in-progress screenings, and help identifying producers and potential financiers.
