Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Film Program
Grants from the Sloan Foundation supporting films that explore science and technology themes, partnering with major film schools and festivals to fund screenplays and productions.
Overview
The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation's Film Program supports the creation of films that depict science, technology, and the lives of scientists and engineers. The foundation partners with major film schools (including AFI, Columbia, NYU, UCLA, USC, and Carnegie Mellon), film festivals (Sundance, Tribeca, San Francisco International), and other institutions to provide screenplay development grants, production funding, and awards for completed films that engage meaningfully with scientific themes.
The Sloan Foundation believes that film is one of the most powerful tools for shaping public understanding of science and technology. Since the program's inception in 1996, Sloan-supported films have included A Beautiful Mind, The Imitation Game, Hidden Figures, and numerous independent features and student films that bring scientific subjects to general audiences.
The program operates through its institutional partners rather than through direct open applications. Filmmakers access Sloan funding through the specific programs at participating schools and festivals, each of which has its own application process and selection criteria.
What It Covers
- Screenplay development grants of $30,000 to $50,000 through participating film schools and festivals
- Production grants of up to $100,000 for feature films with science and technology themes
- Student film prizes at partner schools for screenplays and productions that engage with scientific subjects
- Festival prizes at Sundance, Tribeca, and other participating festivals for completed films
- Commissioning grants for established filmmakers developing science-themed projects
Eligibility
Eligibility varies by partner program. Students at participating film schools can apply for Sloan screenplay and production grants through their institution. Filmmakers with completed projects can submit to Sloan-affiliated festival competitions. The common requirement across all programs is that the project must engage meaningfully with science, technology, mathematics, engineering, or the lives of people in these fields. Projects must depict science and scientists accurately and with nuance.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the specific Sloan partner program relevant to the filmmaker. Check with your film school's Sloan liaison or with the Sloan competition at a participating festival. Each partner has its own application form, deadline, and selection process. The Sloan Foundation does not accept direct unsolicited applications.
Who Should Apply
Filmmakers at all career stages whose projects engage with science and technology themes. Students at Sloan partner schools, screenwriters developing science-themed scripts, and filmmakers with completed films about scientific subjects should explore the Sloan programs available through their institutions and festival submissions.
See Also
For understanding how science and storytelling intersect in film, visit the Filmmaker Glossary. To plan your production budget, use the Production Budget Calculator.
