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The Director Incubator

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Netflix x NALIP Director Incubator is a premier career acceleration program designed to support emerging directors in creating bold, original short films that center stories told from the perspective of women, while advancing their careers in the film and television industry. 

Over the past five years, the program has provided production funding, professional development, mentorship, and unparalleled industry access to exceptional filmmakers. Beginning this year, the program will invest more deeply in each selected fellow, awarding 4 directors with $45,000 production grants to create proof-of-concept short films that meet the demands of today’s evolving independent film landscape. Fellows will also receive individualized guidance, career development opportunities, and the chance to showcase their work to industry leaders.

Applications open now: Submit Here

Get your questions answered: Watch the Info Session Recording

2021 Cohort • 2022 Cohort • 2023 Cohort• 2024 Cohort • 2025 Cohort 

2026-27 INCUBATOR TIMELINE

  • September 1, 2026 — Applications Open

  • September 21, 2026 — Application Deadline

  • Mid October 2026 — Application Review

  • Late October 2026 — Finalists Interviewed

  • November 2026 — Fellows Announced

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Applicants must:

  • Be an emerging or mid-career film or television director.

  • Be based in the United States.

  • Be a current NALIP member in good standing - Become a Member

  • Submit an original proof-of-concept short film project intended for production through the program.

APPLICATION MATERIALS

Applicants must submit the following materials for consideration:

  • Completed online application.

  • Director’s statement.

  • Project synopsis and creative vision.

  • Current résumé or CV.

  • Portfolio or links to previous directing work.

  • Any additional materials requested in the application portal.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Please refer to the questions below before emailing us at [email protected] with your questions. Due to the high number of submissions, please allow up to 3 business days for us to return your email.

You may apply with same project from previous cycles. Applicants should review their materials before resubmitting. We love to see growth between the different application cycles.

Yes, submissions must be a narrative short-form project. Documentary projects are not accepted for this program. Due to the nature of the program, features will not be accepted for the incubator, however, you may adapt your feature into a short film and apply. Animation is accepted.

If your projects go over the $45,000 budget, please provide a full breakdown of your production costs to illuminate the feasibility of your short film and how you plan to come up with the remainder of the funds. Be as detailed as possible. Additional confirmed funds, such as donations, crowdfunding, and grants, should be included. 

Yes.

Filmmakers may apply and film anywhere within the US. If you plan to film outside the US, please share the logistics in your production plan and budget.