How to Go to Film School for Free and Make Money

Project Involve is a free, intensive, nine-month annual program that offers 30 up-and-coming film professionals from under-represented communities the opportunity to hone skills, form creative partnerships, utilize free or low-cost production resources and ultimately gain the industry access necessary to succeed as artists.

Running from October through June, the Lab is comprised of:

• Mentoring: Each Fellow is paired with a notable professional in the same field, e.g. screenwriters with screenwriters. Mentors share knowledge, contacts and experience, giving young filmmakers invaluable guidance.
• Masters Workshops: Ten Masters Workshops with top professionals offer insights and information on the art and business of filmmaking.
• Short Film Production: Fellows are given the resources and opportunity to gain hands-on practical experience. Fellows team up to produce at least six 10-minute shorts during the program, which are screened at the LA Film Festival.
• Educational and Networking Events: Opportunities to learn from and connect with working artists and key professionals include the LA Film Festival and the Film Independent Forum, an annual event that brings together roughly 80 filmmakers and executives for a series of enlightening panel discussions.

Those involved in Project Involve are able to gain access to the following fellowships:

Amazon Studios Film Fellowship

The Amazon Studios Film Fellowship provides a $10,000 grant to a visionary filmmaker in Project Involve.

Focus Features Lili Elbe Fellowship

The Focus Features Lili Elbe Fellowship provides a $10,000 grant to a transgender filmmaker in Project Involve.

The FOX | HBCU Media Alliance Fox Film Fellowship

The Fox Film Fellowship awards a $10,000 grant to a FOX | HBCU Media Alliance (FHMA) member in Project Involve.

LAIKA Animation Fellowship

The LAIKA Animation Fellowship provides a $10,000 grant to an animator in Project Involve.

LMU SFTV Project Involve Fellowship

Alumni of Loyola Marymount University who apply to Project Involve can ask to be considered for the LMU Project Involve Fellowship. The fellowship includes a $10,000 cash grant, as well as inclusion in Project Involve. To be eligible for this fellowship, applicants must be alumni of Loyola Marymount University.

Participant Media Fellowship

The Participant Media Fellowship endows an exceptional filmmaker in Project Involve with a $10,000 grant.

Sony Diversity Fellowship

The Sony Diversity Fellowship provides a $10,000 grant to an outstanding filmmaker in Project Involve.

To apply click here.