Sundance Ignite x Adobe Fellowship 2027 Opens Applications for Young Short Filmmakers Worldwide

The Sundance Institute Ignite x Adobe Fellowship is opening its 2027 application cycle, inviting emerging filmmakers aged 18–25 to apply for a year-long mentorship and professional development program.

The window runs from 12 November 2026 to 11 February 2027, with applications closing at 11am Pacific Time. The program welcomes filmmakers from around the world and will include an in-person lab at MASS MoCA in North Adams, Massachusetts, in June 2027.

A program built around the director

Established in 2015 with Adobe support, Ignite helps young filmmakers develop their creative identities and navigate the transition beyond early short-film projects. It is not simply a production prize for a single film.

Documentary and fiction filmmakers are eligible, and participants gain access to mentoring, peer exchange and resources intended to support their longer-term careers.

Eligibility and film requirements

Applicants must be aged 18–25 on 11 February 2027 and have directed the submitted short. Co-directed films may qualify, but the submission can include only one director for the fellowship.

Sundance Collab’s published guidance sets a maximum short-film runtime of 15 minutes, including credits, and requires a completion date within the 12 months preceding the deadline. Films in other languages must include English subtitles.

Application materials

Filmmakers must submit a recently completed short and identify an active creative project they would like to develop. A treatment, lookbook, pitch deck or screenplay extract can support that proposal.

Film links can be provided through accepted video platforms, while uploaded files must follow the program’s MP4/H.264 specifications. Applicants should consult the final 2027 portal for the most up-to-date technical requirements.

The Ignite Lab and ongoing mentorship

The June 2027 lab at MASS MoCA brings selected filmmakers together for creative guidance and professional discussion. International participants do not need to relocate permanently to the US.

According to current guidance, official travel, accommodation, and meals are covered, but visa costs are excluded. The fellowship also offers opportunities for continued engagement and learning throughout the year.

Previous fellows and financial support

For the 2026 cohort, Sundance selected ten filmmakers from more than 1,100 applicants. Those fellows received a $5,000 artist grant and a year of Adobe Creative Cloud support. The final 2027 grants and benefits had not been confirmed at the time of the announcement.

Former participants include feature filmmakers Sean Wang and Charlotte Regan, illustrating the program’s potential as an early-career professional network.

Information session and next steps

Sundance Collab scheduled a free online information session for 19 November 2026, from 1–2pm Pacific Time, explaining the application process.

Applicants should verify age and film eligibility, prepare their short and project materials, and apply before 11 February 2027 at 11am Pacific Time. Details are at Sundance Ignite.