[Sloan Foundation](https://sloan.org)

September 2026 (Nomination/submission) | October 2026 (Finalist application)

$20,000 per prize; two prizes awarded annually; includes mentorship and industry exposure.

Supports emerging filmmakers in developing science- and technology-themed screenplays through grants, mentorship, and industry networking.

Application is by nomination from select graduate film programs only.

--- ## Description The Sloan Foundation Film Program, established in 1996, aims to foster the development and visibility of science- and technology-themed films. Through partnerships with leading film schools and festivals, the program supports filmmakers and screenwriters by providing funding, mentorship, and industry networking opportunities. The annual Sloan Student Grand Jury and Discovery Prizes recognize outstanding screenplays or scripted series pilots that meaningfully integrate science, engineering, mathematics, or technology into compelling narratives. Winners receive a significant cash award, year-round mentorship from both science and film industry professionals, and exposure at major industry events. --- ## Due Dates - September 2026 (anticipated): Nomination/submission deadline for Sloan Student Grand Jury and Discovery Prizes - October 2026 (anticipated): Revised screenplay and formal application deadline for finalists *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Two prizes awarded annually - Each winner receives $20,000 - Includes year-round mentorship from science and film industry advisors, and industry exposure --- ## Eligibility - Open only to nominees from select U.S. graduate film programs: - Grand Jury Prize: American Film Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, Columbia University, NYU Tisch School of the Arts, UCLA, USC School of Cinematic Arts - Discovery Prize: Brooklyn College Feirstein School of Cinema, Florida State University, SUNY Purchase, Temple University, University of Texas at Austin, University of Michigan - Applicants must submit a feature film screenplay or a scripted series pilot that prominently features science, engineering, mathematics, or technology - Nomination by the respective film school is required; unsolicited applications are not accepted --- ## Application Process - Nomination: Each participating school nominates one screenplay or pilot that exemplifies strong integration of science or technology themes - Submission: Nominated works are submitted by the school to the program - Finalists: Selected finalists receive feedback and are paired with a writing mentor for one round of revisions - Final Application: Finalists submit a revised screenplay and formal application in the fall (anticipated October) - Selection: Winners are chosen by a jury of film and science professionals and announced at a public awards ceremony --- ## Additional Information - Winners are celebrated at an awards ceremony and may participate in workshops and public events - Winning screenplays are showcased at the Museum of the Moving Image’s annual First Look Festival - Funds are distributed and monitored by program staff to ensure alignment with project goals - The program does not accept unsolicited scripts, treatments, or pitch letters --- ## External Links - [Sloan Foundation Film Program Overview](https://sloan.org/programs/public-understanding/film) - [Sloan Student Grand Jury & Discovery Prizes Details](https://movingimage.us/sloan-student-prizes/#:~:text=The%20Sloan%20Student%20Grand%20Jury%20Prize%2C%20first%20established%20by%20the,Sloan%20Foundation.) - [Sloan Science & Film](http://www.scienceandfilm.org/) - [Sloan Foundation Grants - Open Calls](https://sloan.org/grants/open-calls) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Details | |---------------------|--------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [frontdesk@sloan.org](mailto:frontdesk@sloan.org) | | Phone | +1 212-649-1649 | | Contact Form | [Sloan Foundation Contact Page](https://sloan.org/about/contact) | ---

Sloan Foundation Film Program

Sign in to see full grant listing