Women Write Now

Date Posted: 2022-05-23

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE WOMEN WRITE NOW 2023 SUBMISSION WINDOW HAS BEEN TEMPORARILY CLOSED. A statement from their website reads as follows:

Thank you to everyone who has shown interest in the latest Women Write Now cycle. In light of the ongoing WGA strike, Hartbeat has decided to temporarily suspend submissions for the Women Write Now fellowship program. We want to emphasize our respect for the negotiation process and acknowledge the gravity of the situation. Once the strike has concluded, we will announce new submission and program dates.

Thank you for your understanding.

Source: Women Write Now.

Women Write Now is a script-to-screen fellowship opportunity for Black women in comedy, offered by Hartbeat and the Sundance Institute.

The fellowship exists as a platform for historically underrepresented Black female comedy writers. It is committed to championing the work of talented creators, as well as facilitating development.

During a two-week fellowship in August, three selected writers will develop short comedic scripts under the guidance of huge comedy names. There will be industry-focussed workshops and one-on-one creative development meetings, plus written feedback on the finished scripts. Each writer will receive US$5,000 on being accepted into the Fellowship, and a further US$5,000 on delivery of their final approved script.

These scripts will then be produced by Hartbeat and directed by a celebrity Black female director. The final films will premiere during the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.

After completing the fellowship, the three selected writers will receive a twelve-month first look deal with Hartbeat, meaning you’ll be able to submit original projects to the company, which they may choose to develop!

Sound good? Here’s how to get applying. Firstly, check that you meet the eligibility criteria:

  • Identify as Black or African American
  • Identify as female
  • 18 years or older at the time of application
  • An emerging non-union writer
  • Based in the United States and legally authorised to work in the United States

You’ll need to fill out an online application and submit a short screenplay between 5-10 pages. Hartbeat and the Sundance Institute want to see a strong story, authentic characters, blazing originality and above all, top comedy!

For the full details, terms and conditions, and to submit your application, head on over to the Women Write Now page.

Applications close at 5PM PDT on 5th June 2023.

To head back to the Opportunities Hub, click here.