Creative Producing Fellowship and Lab FAQ

How do I apply?
Once a year, Sundance Institute accepts open applications for the Creative Producing Fellowship. Applications are available online each year from mid-November to early February.

Do you accept international submissions?
Eligible candidates must live in the United States, though the project may be filmed internationally.

If selected, when do I have to be available to participate and do I have to be there the entire time?
If your project is selected, you are required to be at the Lab, Creative Producing Summit, and Festival for the entire duration. If you have a scheduling conflict, we encourage you to apply in a future cycle when you are available.

What are the dates of the Lab?
The dates for the 2012 Creative Producing Lab are July 30 – August 3, 2012. The dates for the 2012 Creative Producing Summit are August 3 – 5, 2012. The dates for the 2013 Sundance Festival are January 17-27, 2013.

Can I reapply with the same project as last year?
Yes, although we encourage you to re-apply with the same project only if you have made significant revisions.

Can I still apply if I don’t have a director attached?
No, we can only consider candidates with projects that have a director attached. Candidates may not be the writer or director of the submitted project.

I work with another producer; can we both apply with the same project?
Yes, teams of up to two producers may apply together with one project. If there are additional producers, they must also be disclosed on the application but would not participate in the Fellowship if selected.

Can I submit multiple projects?
You may submit up to three projects, but we encourage you to choose one project that is your priority in terms of moving forward. Please note that for each script, you must complete a separate application and submit a separate application fee.

Do I need to have the rights to the script or underlying material in order to apply?
In the event you are selected for the Fellowship, you will need to provide a copy of your attachment, option, or rights agreement for the script and for any underlying material. In order to apply, you will need the approval and signatures of your director and writer acknowledging the submission of your project for consideration to the Fellowship.

Can I submit additional material along with my application?
Please do not submit any additional material including prior films, screenplays, treatments, or source material. We may request additional supporting materials such as script and directing & producing samples at a later date.

Who should I have write my letter of recommendation?
Ideally, your recommender should be working in the film industry (eg. producer, director, executive, film professor) and be familiar with your past work. They do not need to be familiar with the project you are submitting. If you do not have prior film work or relationships, your recommender should be able to address your past creative endeavors.

Can my letter be sent separately to you?
Yes, your letter of recommendation can be either mailed directly (addressed to Rebecca Green at Creative Producing Fellowship by the postmark deadline) or included in your submissions materials.

How will I be notified about acceptance? Will I be notified if I’m not accepted?
All applicants will be notified via email. You will hear from us whether accepted or not.

I haven’t received my notification yet, but all my friends have! What’s wrong??
We deliver our notifications on a rolling basis, so please don’t panic. All applicants will receive a response via e-mail no later than March 30, 2012.

Does it matter if I’ve participated in other non-Sundance labs?
Not at all. We encourage filmmakers to utilize all of the resources available to them in furthering their work and their artistic development.

What is your mailing address?
Please submit your application package to the following address:

Rebecca Green
Creative Producing Fellowship
Sundance Institute
8530 Wilshire Blvd. 3rd Floor
Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Can I deliver my application in person?
Yes, if you live in Los Angeles, you can hand deliver your application materials to our office. Please call our reception to confirm our office hours at (310) 360-1981.

Can I receive feedback on my submission?
Due to the high volume of submissions, we are unfortunately not able to provide individualized feedback.

Does Sundance pay for my travel to Utah?
Sundance does provide air travel, lodging, and meals at the Lab and Summit, as well as air travel and lodging at the Festival for all selected Fellows.

Still don’t see your question answered here? Email producers@sundance.org with further questions with “Creative Producing Fellowship” in the subject line.