Artist Accelerator
The Sundance Institute's Artist Accelerator Program provides grants, mentorship, and development resources to support diverse independent storytellers and advance equity in the creative field.
Funder: Sundance Institute
Due Dates: Rolling (Year-round fellowships and grants)
Funding Amounts: Typical grants range from $10,000–$25,000; most fellowships are year-long; some completion funds award up to $25,000.
Summary: Supports emerging and mid-career independent storytellers with funding, mentorship, and community to advance equity and sustainability in the creative field.
Key Information: Multiple tracks and fellowships are available, including for specific communities and project stages.
Description
The Artist Accelerator Program at the Sundance Institute is designed to support independent storytellers—filmmakers, writers, and creators—at various career stages. Established in 2021, the program addresses the evolving needs of artists in a rapidly changing creative and economic landscape. It provides financial backing (non-recoupable grants), individualized mentorship, community-building opportunities, and professional development. The program operates through a variety of yearlong fellowships and project advancement and completion grants, with a focus on expanding access, equity, and sustainability in the independent storytelling ecosystem. The Accelerator also collaborates with peer organizations, public agencies, and grassroots collectives, and engages in field advocacy and standardization efforts to reduce barriers for artists.
