Cate Blanchett, Coco Francini, Dr. Stacy L. Smith, and USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative Launch New Round of Proof of Concept Accelerator Program
EXCLUSIVE: Dirty Films, in collaboration with Cate Blanchett and Coco Francini, is renewing its partnership with Dr. Stacy L. Smith and the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative to launch a second cycle of the Proof of Concept Accelerator.
Supported by Netflix, the Proof of Concept Accelerator aims to discover and elevate emerging filmmaking talent. Launched in 2024, its inaugural year featured 10 filmmakers, each receiving a $50,000 grant to create a short film, along with mentorship from industry leaders. The program culminated in a showcase at Netflix’s Tudum Theater, where filmmakers presented their work to agents, executives, financiers, and industry partners.
For its second iteration, the program will select eight new filmmakers whose stories prioritize the perspectives of women, trans, and non-binary individuals. Participants will receive immersive education, mentorship, and production resources, again culminating in an industry showcase. Applications are currently open and will be accepted until February 6, with selected participants to be announced in April.
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Blanchett and Francini stated, “With Proof of Concept, we want to give filmmakers the resources and mentorship to build short films that express their most daring, expansive ideas. The first cohort showed us what is possible when emerging talent is supported at a critical moment. We cannot wait to see what new worlds and voices rise in year two.”
Dr. Smith emphasized, “The goal of Proof of Concept has always been to identify new talent and compelling stories that can make an impact on the entertainment industry. We are excited to launch another year of this program and to see the storytellers and their work that emerge.”
This second installment of Proof of Concept coincides with the Displacement Film Fund, a separate initiative established by Blanchett aimed at amplifying the voices of displaced filmmakers and those known for telling compelling stories about the refugee experience.
