ISF seeks to create meaningful pathways for emerging screenwriters by addressing key challenges in the industry. The program provides financial accessibility through competition entry fee coverage for approved applicants. With a strong emphasis on career development and industry education, ISF offers seminars, networking events, and 1:1 mentorship sessions designed to equip writers with the knowledge and connections needed to advance their careers. To foster long-term relationships, ISF builds a sense of community through cohort-based collaboration and partnerships with industry leaders. These initiatives collectively aim to empower screenwriters with the tools, connections, and confidence to navigate the industry and build sustainable careers.

The program’s educational sessions will commence in May and conclude in July. Writers accepted into ISF must make themselves available for these sessions, as participation in workshops and cohort-based events is essential to gaining the full benefit of the program. These sessions help us learn more about a writer’s needs, so we may be unable to offer 1-on-1 industry mentor meetings for those writers who miss too many sessions.

Financial Assistance: ISF will typically grant one award per accepted project, covering the early-bird or regular entry fee for one major screenplay competition via reimbursement

Cohort Model & Networking: Participants will join a cohort of up to 15  screenwriters, creating a collaborative environment for shared learning and support. ISF will host a dedicated introductory session in May at the start of the program. This session will provide a foundation for building relationships, exchanging script feedback, and maximizing the program’s benefits through peer collaboration.

Seminars and Workshops: ISF will host a minimum of three group seminars focused on screenwriting craft and career development (rather than individual script feedback). 

Access to Industry Mentors: Each selected screenwriter receives at least one personalized 1-on-1 session with an industry mentor. This session can be used as a career guidance meeting or a Q&A session tailored to the writer’s professional goals. Writers must attend a majority of the weekly education program session to be eligible for these mentor meetings.

Live Script Readings: Screenwriters in the program who advance to the semi-final or final rounds of screenplay competitions may have their scripts read by talent at the CFA Studio. These readings will be performed in front of a live audience. ISF handles casting, audience invitations, and event management. For those outside Los Angeles, the readings will be live-streamed, ensuring accessibility for all participants, regardless of location.