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Annenberg Inclusion Initiative is currently accepting applications for its Mental Health Accelerator Program 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
The Mental Health Accelerator Program, launched by the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, supports emerging filmmakers in producing short fiction films that tell meaningful mental health stories.The accelerator is designed to elevate storytelling that is empowering, hopeful, and socially impactful, while encouraging broader public conversations around mental resilience, emotional capacity, and well-being.
Grant Amount
USD 20,000 per selected filmmaker
Up to three grants awarded
The funding supports the development, production, and completion of the proposed short film.
Applicant Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
Be 21 years of age or older
Be legally permitted to work in the United States
Reside in the U.S. for the duration of the program
Have prior filmmaking experience
Have completed at least two short films previously
Apply as a writer-director with rights to the script
Required Application Materials
Applicants must submit a complete application that includes:
Detailed filmmaker or team information
Personal statement
Resume or CV
Links or copies of at least two previous short films
Letter of recommendation from an industry professional
Proposed short film script
Lookbook for the short film
Information about the feature film project, if applicable
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Apply for Annenberg Inclusion Initiative Mental Health Accelerator Program
