2026 Fall Cycle Sandbox Fund

Sundance Institute | Sandbox Fund

The deadline for the 2026 Sandbox Fund fall grant cycle is August 10, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. PT/4:30 p.m. MT/6:30 p.m. ET. All filmmakers who submit applications by this deadline will be notified regarding the status of their application no later than the end of December 2026.

The Sandbox Fund offers grants, engagement events, and other opportunities for independent artists seeking to explore the intrinsic link between science and culture through innovative storytelling. The program is administered by the Sundance Institute Documentary Fund in collaboration with Sandbox Films, a documentary production studio that illuminates the art and beauty of scientific inquiry. 

Grants are offered to independent artists who are working at the intersection of science and nonfiction storytelling. The partnership identifies and supports nonfiction projects that inspire a deeper interest in science, especially among those who don’t think of themselves as science enthusiasts.

Submissions are accepted at any production phase, from development through post-production. All proposals must convey some vision for a finished film. Projects that have not yet secured characters or participants, cannot articulate a story or structure, or cannot explain the project’s driving central question are discouraged. We are unable to consider proposals for story research. You do not need any prior funding or a fiscal sponsor in order to apply.