Film Independent Project Involve 2026

This robust program provides invaluable hands-on filmmaking experience from project inception to completion. Participants are paired with mentors at the top of their respective fields, and receive personalized guidance to help move their projects and careers forward.

Each year, 30 filmmakers from diverse backgrounds are given the opportunity to hone skills, form creative partnerships, create short films and gain industry access needed to succeed as working artists.

This annual program will take place in person in Los Angeles from January through October 2026. Project Involve accepts filmmakers into specific tracks that, together, form short film production teams. When applying to Project Involve, you apply to one specific track: writing, directing, writing/directing, producing, cinematography, editing, programming or an executive track. You may apply to be considered for multiple tracks, but please note that each separate track would require a separate application and the payment of a separate application fee.

Project Involve offers career-changing opportunities and experiences, including:

Mentorship — Working industry professionals share knowledge and give guidance on craft and career.
Conversations — 10+ master workshops offer insight on the art and business of filmmaking.
Short Films — Fellows are given resources to produce short films that debut at a special First Look Screening event.
Events — Fellows attend Film Independent’s signature education programs, screenings, networking events and more.
Fellowships — Fellows may be selected to receive cash grants from industry sponsors.

Film Independent Membership is not required when applying to Artist Development programs. However, all participants accepted into the programs are required to join Film Independent at the standard annual General Membership rate of $105.

Applications Open: May 19, 2025
Regular Deadline: July 14, 2025
Extended Member Deadline: July 28, 2025

Applicants will be notified 6-8 weeks before the start of the program. If you don’t receive a notification, please check your spam folder.