1. Monetary Award

  • Amount: $50,000 (or tiered prizes: 1st, 2nd, 3rd)
  • Use: Tuition, songwriting courses, instrument purchase (e.g., keyboard/guitar), DAW software, or living expenses while creating music.

2. Studio Time + Production Package

Example Package:

  • 10 hours of studio recording time
  • Professional vocal production and mixing
  • One-on-one songwriting session with a pro
  • Single release support (cover art, DSP distribution)

3. Songwriting Camp Scholarship

  • Sponsor attendance at a respected songwriting retreat, workshop, or camp (Berklee Summer Songwriting, Grammy U, etc.)
  • Or host your own 2-day intensive with music industry mentors.

4. Artist Development Grant

3-month mentorship with:

  • Vocal coach
  • Performance coach
  • Songwriting feedback
  • Branding & social media strategy

Eligibility & Application Process

Target Applicants:
Aspiring or emerging singer-songwriters ages 16–30 (flexible)

Requirements:

  • Submit 1–2 original songs (video or audio)
  • Song lyrics (typed out)
  • Short essay: “How music and songwriting have empowered me”
  • Optional: social media links, live performance clip

Selection Criteria:

  • Originality and emotional impact of songwriting
  • Vocal expression and performance style

Core Scholarship Offerings

  • Tuition Assistance
    Full or partial tuition for a film or screenwriting program $50,000
  • Workshop or Masterclass Enrollment
    Pay for enrollment in reputable screenwriting labs, such as Sundance, Script Anatomy, or Final Draft’s Big Break.
  • Software & Tools
    Cover the cost of professional tools like Final Draft, WriterDuet, Celtx, or StudioBinder.
  • Books & Materials
    Provide a bundle of industry-standard screenwriting books (e.g., Save the Cat, Story by Robert McKee, The Screenwriter’s Bible).

Career-Building Extras

  • Mentorship
    Pair them with an experienced writer, director, or producer for 3–6 months of guidance.
  • Internship or Assistantship
    Partner with a production company to offer a paid internship or shadowing experience.
  • Pitch Coaching or Development Help
    Access to one-on-one coaching sessions on script development and how to pitch to producers/networks.
  • Film Festival or Conference Passes
    Tickets to attend events like Sundance, Tribeca, or industry-specific conferences such as the Austin Film Festival.

Exposure & Recognition

Script Competition Entry Fees

  • Cover entry fees for major screenwriting competitions (e.g., Nicholl Fellowship, Page Awards, Final Draft Big Break).

Feature in a Showcase

  • Host an annual virtual or live “New Voices” showcase of scholarship recipients’ short films or scripts.

Publication or Promotion

  • Feature their bio and sample work on your organization’s website or social media to gain visibility.

Optional Personal Touch

Welcome Kit

  • Include a personalized certificate, branded journal, tote bag, or other inspiring goodies.

Virtual Writer’s Retreat

  • A weekend retreat focused on wellness and creativity—great for networking, writing sprints, and panel discussions.

Monetary Award

  • A set amount $50,000 to assist with tuition, equipment, film production, or festival submissions.
  • Consider tiered awards (e.g., 1st place, runner-ups).

Mentorship

  • One-on-one sessions with you or industry peers.
  • Shadowing opportunities on set.
  • Monthly Zoom check-ins for a year.

Production Support

  • Use of your studio or access to production equipment for their project.
  • Access to crew, editors, or consultants.
  • Free entry to film festivals or showcases you’re affiliated with.

Resume/Career Development

  • Script or reel reviews.
  • Help with building a press/media kit.
  • Introductions or recommendations to industry contacts.

Showcasing Opportunities

  • Feature their short film or project at one of your events or online platforms.
  • Include them in your annual fundraiser or creative showcases.
  • Highlight them in your newsletters, press releases, or social media.

Scholarship Requirements (suggested)

  • Must be enrolled in or recently graduated from a film/media/arts program.
  • Submit a short film or production reel (3–10 mins).
  • Include a personal statement: “Why I Want to Be a Director/Producer.”
  • Letter(s) of recommendation (optional but impactful).

Sponsors