StandUp NBC

Overview

StandUp NBC is a talent development competition and fellowship program run by NBC Entertainment that identifies emerging stand-up comedians from underrepresented communities and provides them with development support, industry visibility, and pathways into television. The program is one of NBC's most active diversity initiatives in the entertainment talent pipeline and has launched the careers of numerous comedians who have gone on to appear on NBC programs, streaming specials, and live touring circuits.

For filmmakers, StandUp NBC is most directly relevant to those working at the intersection of comedy performance and film or television production -- particularly comedy writers and director-performers who use stand-up as a foundation for scripted work. Many of the comedians who come through stand-up development programs move into writing, directing, and producing within a few years of their initial development.

What It Offers

Selected StandUp NBC participants receive:

• Development sessions with NBC comedy executives and established comedian-producers
• Performance opportunities at industry showcases in Los Angeles and New York, placing comedians in front of television producers, agents, and managers
• Feedback and coaching on stand-up material and industry presentation
• Access to NBC's talent relationships and referrals to agents and management
• Visibility through NBC's industry networks and promotional channels

The competition culminates in a final showcase, with selected finalists receiving the most intensive development support and the highest-profile industry exposure.

Eligibility

StandUp NBC is open to emerging stand-up comedians who have been performing for a minimum defined period -- typically at least one year of regular stand-up performance -- and who are from underrepresented backgrounds. The program prioritizes diversity of race, ethnicity, gender, and background. Geographic eligibility and specific requirements vary by cycle; filmmakers should confirm current criteria on the NBC Universal website.

Stand-Up to Screen

For comedy filmmakers, understanding the stand-up development ecosystem matters because it produces many of the writers, directors, and performers who power scripted comedy. Stand-up development programs like StandUp NBC, NBC's comedy development more broadly, and similar initiatives at other networks have served as incubators for comedy talent that later produces, directs, and writes independent and studio comedy features and series.

Who Should Apply

Emerging stand-up comedians from underrepresented backgrounds who are actively performing and who want structured industry development support and television visibility. Also relevant for comedy filmmaker-performers who use stand-up as part of a broader creative practice that includes writing and directing.

See Also

For understanding comedy television writing development programs, see the Late Night Writers Workshop listing. For planning a development timeline from performance to production, use the Production Schedule Calculator.