Artist Accelerator
Sundance Institute's Artist Accelerator Program provides funding, mentorship, and professional development for independent storytellers in film, episodic, and media arts.
Funder: Sundance Institute
Due Dates: Rolling (various tracks open throughout the year)
Funding Amounts: $10,000–$25,000 per grant or fellowship; yearlong fellowships and completion grants available.
Summary: Financial, creative, and tactical support for independent storytellers through fellowships, project advancement, and completion grants.
Key Information: Multiple tracks and funds are available with different eligibility and focus; some are open to all, others to specific communities or genres.
Description
The Artist Accelerator Program at the Sundance Institute is designed to support emerging and mid-career independent storytellers working in film, episodic, and related media. Launched in 2021, the program addresses the evolving landscape of independent storytelling by providing financial resources, creative mentorship, and professional development. Artists receive support through yearlong fellowships, project advancement grants, and completion grants. The program is artist-first, offering non-recoupable funding, individualized guidance, and access to a vibrant creative community. In addition to direct artist support, the program collaborates with peer organizations and public agencies to foster equity, access, and sustainability in the independent storytelling ecosystem.
