The Sundance Film Institute is a non-profit organization founded in 1981 by Robert Redford. It was founded in 1981 by Robert Redford to foster independence, risk-taking and new voices in American cinema. That year, 10 emerging filmmakers were invited to the Sundance Resort in the mountains of Utah to develop their original independent projects under the guidance of top writers, directors and actors.
Currently, the Academy's 180-member staff operates year-round, offering 16 labs and intensive programs, more than $3 million in grants, and ongoing mentorship that supports more than 1,000 artists each year.
The Sundance Film Festival is the Academy's flagship event. Held annually in Park City, Utah, it is the largest independent film festival in the United States.
The first Sundance Film Festival was held in 1985. Over the years, it has provided a platform for emerging filmmakers and spotlighted films such as Reservoir Dogs, Little Miss Sunshine, and Escape from Extinction.
The festival includes competition sections for U.S. and world films, as well as non-competition screenings. Major awards include the U.S. Grand Prize and the Audience Award.
The Academy also offers music, theater, and filmmaking workshops and events throughout the year to support artists.
Notable alumni of Sundance labs and programs include Ryan Coogler, Quentin Tarantino, Behn Zeitlin, Ava Dewina, and many others.
Sundance provides grants, funding, mentorship opportunities, and residential labs to help develop new film voices and projects.
For decades, Sundance has played a key role in launching the careers of independent filmmakers and bringing unique stories to a global audience.
Apply for Labs and Events
Browse the website for current lab and event opportunities. Recruitment schedules vary from year to year.
Submit an online application form. Personal and program information is required.
Applications are reviewed by a panel of judges and selected through interviews.
Apply for Funding
Go through the details of each grant program, such as Documentary Fund, Stories of Change, etc.
Submit application materials, such as proposals, work samples, budgets, etc., in accordance with program requirements.
The committee will review the applications and notify you of the results.
Find a Mentor
Browse the mentor database and contact interested mentors.
You can also open your application and be matched with a mentor by the faculty.
Agree on a mentoring program with your mentor.
Submit your work for the festival
Pay attention to the entry period of each year's festival.
Submit the application form and a portfolio of your work via the official website.
Selection will be made by a panel of reviewers.