CAPE New Writers Fellowship
A fellowship from the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment supporting Asian American and Pacific Islander screenwriters through mentorship, workshops, and industry introductions.
Overview
The Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment (CAPE) operates the New Writers Fellowship, a program supporting Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) screenwriters who are developing original projects for film and television. CAPE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to championing diversity and inclusion in Hollywood, with a specific focus on increasing AAPI representation in front of and behind the camera.
The New Writers Fellowship pairs emerging AAPI writers with established showrunners, screenwriters, and industry professionals who serve as mentors throughout the fellowship year. Fellows participate in workshops, pitch sessions, and industry networking events that accelerate their development as professional writers and position their projects for industry attention.
CAPE has been a leading voice for AAPI representation in Hollywood since 1991, and its programs have supported writers, directors, and executives who have gone on to shape how Asian stories are told in American media. The New Writers Fellowship is part of this broader mission.
What It Covers
- Year-long mentorship from established industry professionals
- Workshops and craft sessions focused on screenwriting, pitching, and career development
- Industry introductions to agents, managers, producers, and executives
- Showcase events where fellows present their work to industry decision-makers
- CAPE community membership connecting fellows with AAPI entertainment professionals
Eligibility
Applicants must be of Asian American or Pacific Islander descent. Writers must have an original feature screenplay or television pilot in development. The fellowship targets emerging writers who have not yet staffed on a television show or sold a feature screenplay. US-based writers are prioritized given the in-person programming in Los Angeles.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the CAPE website. Submissions include a writing sample (screenplay or pilot), a project description, a personal statement, and a writing resume. The deadline is typically in the fall. There is no application fee.
Who Should Apply
Asian American and Pacific Islander screenwriters with original projects in development who want mentorship from established industry professionals and introductions to agents, managers, and producers. The fellowship is best suited to writers who have completed at least one screenplay or pilot and are ready for professional industry engagement.
See Also
For screenwriting career guidance, see Screenwriting Essentials. To explore filmmaking terminology, visit the Filmmaker Glossary.
