Creative Producing Fellowship and Lab FAQ

How do I apply?
The application for the 2013 Creative Producing Fellowship and Lab will be available November 15, 2012 and will close at 6:00 p.m. PST on February 8, 2013. 

What do I need to Apply?

• Logline
• Synopsis
• Director’s Artistic statement (their creative intent for the film, which can include the genesis of the story, particular themes of interest, and visual style)
• Bios of Producer, Director, and Screenwriter(s)
• letter of recommendation
• Essay answers
• Application fee of $40 (credit card only)

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 2013 Creative Producing Lab are July 29 – August 2, 2013. The dates for the 2013 Creative Producing Summit are August 2 – 4, 2013. The dates for the 2013 Sundance Festival are January 16-26, 2014.

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 to the script and/or elements attached.

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 of your director and writer acknowledging the submission of your project for consideration to the Fellowship.

Do I submit a script or other materials with my application?
You do not need to submit your script at this time. Starting on March 1st, we will begin requesting additional materials, which include a full script, directing sample, and producing samples for applicants invited to the second round. All applicants will receive a notification via email if they are being invited to the second round no later than March 30, 2013. 

Do I need to submit a budget with my application?
No, you do not need to submit a budget with your application, however, you will need to provide a budget number i.e. 1 million. 

Can my project go into production before attending the Lab?
Unfortunately, no. We consider the timing of your Lab and Fellowship to be a crucial component to selection. The Lab is designed, in part, to focus on your creative input and communication with your director and screenwriter on your Fellowship project. If your film is already in production or has already been shot, the impact and relevance of your Lab experience is lessened. 

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. Please only send in one letter. 

Where do I send my letter of recommendation?
The letter of recommendation will need to be emailed to us no later than 6:00 p.m. PST on February 8, 2013. The letter should be sent to Rebecca_Windsor@Sundance.org with “Letter of Recommendation” and your name in the subject line. The letter needs to be sent directly from the person who is writing the letter. 

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 via e-mail no later than June 13, 2013

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 June 13, 2013.

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.

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.