The Sundance Institute Ignite Fellowship supports emerging filmmakers (ages 18–25) with mentorship, professional development, and funding to advance independent storytelling in documentary and fiction film.
Funder: Sundance Institute
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (project submission) | February 2027 (fellowship application closing)
Funding Amounts: $5,000 artist grant per fellow; 10 fellows selected annually; 1-year fellowship duration.
Summary: Yearlong artist development, mentorship, and funding for emerging filmmakers aged 18–25 to advance independent storytelling.
Key Information: Only one submission per applicant; open globally to filmmakers aged 18–25.
Sundance Institute Ignite is a competitive, yearlong fellowship program designed to identify and support the next generation of filmmakers, specifically those aged 18 to 25. Supported by Adobe, the program offers emerging filmmakers a blend of mentorship, artist development opportunities, and financial support to advance their independent storytelling careers. Fellows participate in a weeklong in-person lab, receive professional guidance from Sundance alumni mentors, engage in monthly workshops and webinars, and gain access to a global network of peers and industry professionals. The program is open to both documentary and fiction filmmakers and is intended to foster fresh voices and perspectives in independent film.