Film Independent Project Involve Fellowship

Overview

Project Involve is Film Independent's signature diversity program, designed to increase representation in the entertainment industry by supporting emerging filmmakers from underrepresented communities. The nine-month fellowship provides intensive mentorship, education, and the opportunity to collaborate on the production of original short films with budgets funded by Film Independent and its industry partners.

Film Independent, the nonprofit organization behind the Spirit Awards and the Los Angeles Film Festival, has operated Project Involve since 1993. The program has supported over 1,000 fellows, many of whom have gone on to direct features, write for television, and hold leadership positions at studios and production companies. Project Involve alumni include directors, writers, producers, cinematographers, and editors working at every level of the industry.

Fellows are selected across multiple disciplines -- directing, screenwriting, producing, cinematography, editing, and entertainment executive -- and are grouped into production teams to create short films during the program. This collaborative structure mirrors professional production and builds lasting professional relationships among fellows.

What It Covers

• Free participation in the nine-month fellowship program
• Mentorship from established industry professionals paired with each fellow
• Production funding for short films produced during the program
• Master classes and workshops with working filmmakers, writers, producers, and executives
• Film Independent membership and access to the Spirit Awards and other events
• Industry networking through Film Independent's extensive professional community

Eligibility

Applicants must be from communities underrepresented in the film industry, including but not limited to people of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities. Fellows must be based in or able to relocate to the Los Angeles area for the duration of the program. Applicants should have some prior filmmaking experience or education but should not yet be established professionals. Both above-the-line and below-the-line disciplines are represented.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through the Film Independent website. The submission typically includes a personal statement, a creative work sample, a resume, and letters of recommendation. The deadline is usually in August or September. There is no application fee. Applicants indicate their primary discipline (directing, writing, producing, cinematography, editing, or executive track).

Who Should Apply

Emerging filmmakers from underrepresented communities who are based in or can relocate to Los Angeles and who want intensive mentorship, production experience, and professional connections in the entertainment industry. The program is designed for filmmakers who have foundational skills and are ready to take the next step in their careers.

See Also

For independent filmmaking career guidance, see Independent Filmmaking Strategies. For festival strategy, see Film Festival Strategy.