Inclusivity Archives

Inclusivity Initiative: From Start to Screen

Pilots applying for the Independent Pilot, Digital Short Series, Late Night, and Collegiate Spotlight competitions have the opportunity to apply for a waiver submission.

Caz Matthews Fund

Caz Matthews is a Colorado-based supporter of SeriesFest and of the independent creators of television content who show their projects at the annual SeriesFest.

Level Forward Impact Award

SeriesFest is excited to partner with Level Forward to present a brand new opportunity for creators applying to the Independent Pilot, Digital Short, and Late Night competitions!

Creators will have the opportunity to opt-in to be considered for the Level Forward Impact Award, which will be given to the episodic pilot and team who demonstrate, on top of their commitment to creative excellence, a thoughtful, thorough and deliberate approach to using storytelling as a means of leveling the playing field for underrepresented people including women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA and alternatively abled voices. In keeping with Level Forward’s mission to advance the access, opportunity, and influence of storytelling, we are looking for compelling and entertaining pilots that have incorporated this ethos into the fabric of their process and project.

Executive Elevation Mentorship

The Executive Elevation Mentorship aims to diversify the landscape of television's top decision makers. Fellows will be paired with top television, new media and digital executives of color in hopes of moving their projects – and careers- forward. As part of our mission, SeriesFest will curate a dedicated group of mentors and mentees to spark change in the landscape of the tv/film/media industry at the leadership level.

Women Directing Mentorship

SeriesFest and Shondaland are proud to have partnered for the past two years on the Women Directing Mentorship — a competition designed to discover aspiring female directors with a unique voice and provide a launchpad for their career. The Women Directing Mentorship is anchored with the prestigious opportunity to shadow a director for an episode of a Shondaland original series and a $5,000 stipend to use during the duration of their mentorship.