INCUBATOR
THE CHELSEA FILM FESTIVAL INCUBATOR
The Chelsea Film Festival is excited to open applications for the 2026 CFF Incubator- a highly selective program created to support emerging BIPOC filmmakers based in New York City. This initiative is designed for storytellers with bold ideas, fresh perspectives, and a passion for pushing boundaries in film.
Participants will receive creative and professional development support throughout the filmmaking process. Upon successful completion of their film, each selected filmmaker will be awarded a cash grant to support post-production and will secure a guaranteed screening at the 14th Annual Chelsea Film Festival.
Whether you’re working in narrative, documentary, experimental, or animation, the Incubator is a unique opportunity to bring your vision to life while building community, mentorship, and momentum within the industry.
If you’re ready to take your next step as a filmmaker, we invite you to apply.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Read Before Applying
Applications will be accepted from August 1st, 2025 through January 16th, 2026. To apply, you will need the following:
- One (1) original script in PDF format
- Resume in PDF format
- Bio
- Personal statement
- Script synopsis (750 words or less)
- Script genre (drama, comedy, dramedy, documentary)
- Logline (75 words or less)
- 2 additional original loglines of unproduced material
- 1 or 2 Producer(s) mandatory
- Contact details for 2 references
- Cover letter
Candidates for the CFF Incubator should submit their materials no later than 11:59 PM PT on January 15th, 2025 via FilmFreeway. If you have any questions, please email info@chelseafilm.org.
DISCLAIMER
Note: Participants will not be entitled to and will not receive any wages or financial benefits as compensation for their time spent as a participant in the program.
- The Incubator is an educational program and selected participants will receive training similar to that which would be provided in a writing seminar or similar vocational program.
- The Incubator is for the benefit of the selected participants.
- Participants selected for the Incubator will not be entitled to and will not receive any wages, remuneration or financial benefits as compensation for their time spent as a participant in the Incubator.