Project Involve

About Project Involve

"If you don't see yourself in the culture, put yourself there because we need you."

Justin Simien, Project Involve Fellow

For 30 years and counting, Project Involve has been Film Independent's most vital and impactful program. We're proud to be a leader in the ongoing fight to build a more inclusive and equitable industry by supporting emerging filmmakers from communities underrepresented in film and entertainment.

This robust program provides invaluable hands-on filmmaking experience from 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.

Scroll down to learn more about Project Involve and join the cause by clicking the button below to make a donation.

The Program

Running February through October, Project Involve offers career-changing opportunities and experiences.

Mentorship — Working industry professionals share knowledge and give guidance on craft and career.
Conversations — Ten 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.

Learn more about Project Involve Fellowships.

This robust program provides invaluable hands-on filmmaking experience from 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.

Scroll down to learn more about Project Involve and join the cause by clicking the button below to make a donation.

Short Film Production

Project Involve Fellows develop and produce six original short films, from pitch through First Look Screening.

February–March: Treatment selections, story development
April: Filmmaker teams formed, projects pitched
May: Pre-production
June–July: Principal photography
August–October: Post-production

Real, valuable filmmaking experience is at the heart of our program. Film Independent provides script consultation, individualized mentorship, equipment, casting and post-production services to facilitate the development of Fellows' shorts. In addition to a cash production grant, filmmakers are provided with resources for raising additional funds that will help bring their projects to fruition.

Notable Project Involve shorts include Black Boy Joy (2020 NAACP Image Award, Outstanding Short), Liberty (2019 SXSW Narrative Short Film Jury Award) and Emergency (2018 Sundance Special Jury Award).

Watch previously produced Project Involve Shorts.

LAIKA Animation Track

Five Fellows. Two years. One incredible animated short film.

In 2023, we're celebrating Project Involve's 30th Anniversary, as well as four strong years of collaboration with LAIKA. We're also excited to announce that Project Involve + LAIKA partnership has expanded...

We now offer a new, two-year Project Involve LAIKA Animation Track, which supports five Fellows, including a writer/director/animator, producer, cinematographer, supporting animator, and an editor.

Ideal candidates are emerging filmmakers who come from diverse backgrounds and/or communities traditionally underrepresented in film and television. Strong consideration will be given to those who have demonstrated talent in animation and collaborative effort.

In year one, Fellows build relationships with their cohort and mentors, develop their short film project together and participate in program activities, while year two of the program will focus on the production, shooting and editing of the filmmakers' short.

LAIKA Animation Fellows will participate in Project Involve starting February 2023 and be provided with a production grant to create a 3-minute, stop-motion animated film during the two-year program. In addition, each of the five Fellows will receive a cash stipend in recognition of their two year commitment to the program.

Film Independent Membership is required to participate, and Fellows must reside in the Los Angeles area for the duration of the program.

If you're a filmmaker who is passionate about animation, this program is for you. Keep an eye out for future opportunities to apply!

Eligibility and Applications

Each year we support a new, inclusive group of filmmakers with unique visions and diverse perspectives.

Project Involve accepts filmmakers in various tracks that, together, form short film production teams. When applying to Project Involve, you apply to one specific track, which include writing, directing, producing, cinematography, editing, programming, animation and an executive track.

Strong consideration is given to those whose work samples and statements of interest demonstrate talent, responsibility and collaborative effort. Film Independent Membership is required to participate in Project Involve and Fellows must reside in Los Angeles for the duration of the program.

To view deadlines and apply, visit our applications page.

Our extensive list of past industry mentors and guest speakers includes Destin Daniel Cretton (Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings); Ava DuVernay (Selma); Barry Jenkins (If Beale Street Could Talk, Moonlight); Charles D. King (Fences, Mudbound); Reed Morano (The Handmaid's Tale); Christine Vachon (Carol, Boys Don't Cry) and Bradford Young, ASC (Arrival, Selma).

To see more Fellows from prior years, visit our Talent Guide.

We're glad you're interested in Project Involve and invite you to apply today or make a donation to support inclusion in film.

Our Fellows

Project Involve has proudly fostered the careers of more than 800 filmmakers.

Meet the 2023 class of Project Involve Fellows right here.

Fellows include Andrew Ahn (Fire Island); Linda Yvette Chavez & Marvin Lemus (Gentefied); Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians); Jomo Fray (Selah and the Spades); LaToya Morgan (Into the Badlands); Justin Simien (Dear White People); Lulu Wang (The Farewell) and Kim Yutani (Director of Programming, Sundance).