Information Density: Sundance Institute – Signal Evidence & AI Readability

[H2] Become a Member for Exclusive Benefits

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[H2] Save the Date! The 2022 Sundance Film Festival is set for January 20 – 30.

Plan Your Trip

[H2] Submit Your Film to the 2027 Sundance Film Festival

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[H2] 2027 Sundance Film Festival To Take Place
January 21–31 in Boulder, Colorado

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[H2] 2027 Sundance Film Festival To Take Place
January 21–31 in Boulder, Colorado

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[H2] Submit Your Film to the 2027 Sundance Film Festival

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[H2] News & Stories

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[H3]
2026 Sundance Film Festival: Local Lens

June 18, 2026

[IMG: A young black girl with short bangs wearing a baby blue sweater and a black coat is walking with her hands in her pockets as two bystanders look on.]

[H3]
Sundance Film Festival 101: Powerful Films by Black Directors

June 17, 2026

[H3]
Sundance Film Festival 101: Films by Directors With a Signature Style

June 16, 2026

[H2] Upcoming Events

[H2] Events

Tuesday, July 7Capturing the Visceral Horror of Coming of Age in Leviticus

[H2] Learn More >

Thursday, July 9Bridging Divides Through Storytelling

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Sundance Collab: Writers’ CafeJoin us every Friday for writing accountability to help progress your latest project forward.

[H2] Learn More >

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[H2] 16 Looks From Sundance Institute–Supported Films To Inspire Your Spring Wardrobe

This season, take some sartorial cues from Sundance-supported movies that deliver a serious spring vibe, showcasing everything from bold prints to sophisticated classics that feel just right for the warmer months ahead.

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[IMG: Sundance Collab Filmmaking Courses]

[H2] Support the Sundance Institute

Founded by Robert Redford in 1981, the Sundance Institute is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering new voices in American storytelling and championing independent stories for the screen.Make sure you’re a part of the transformative impact of the Sundance Institute, where support such as granting, labs, and invaluable mentorship has served a crucial catalyst for filmmakers for over 40 years. Join us in lifting up the next generation of artists and storytellers by becoming a member, joining Donor Circles, or by making a donation today.

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[H2] Artist Opportunities

OPEN APPLICATIONSGraton Collab Artist Opportunity

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Membership & Donor Circles

[H2] Membership & Donor Circle

Our community of supporters is as dynamic and diverse as the artists we champion. We believe there are many meaningful ways to contribute, and we invite you to find the path that resonates most with you. Your investment is vital in preserving and nurturing the work of artists, ensuring that thoughtful, provocative, and independent voices continue to flourish.

For all Membership questions, please contact: membership@sundance.org For all Donor Circle questions, please contact: donorcircles@sundance.org We are pleased to accept donations via mail at:Sundance InstituteAttn: Accounting, Patron CirclePO Box 684429Park City, UT 84068-4429We do not accept payments via Paypal.All Membership and Donor Circle gifts are for one (1) year from the date of activation.All benefits are subject to change at any time.

For all Membership questions, please contact: membership@sundance.org For all Donor Circle questions, please contact: donorcircles@sundance.org

[H2] Membership Tiers and Benefits

Championing independent filmmakers and introducing new audiences to their work is the heart of our mission at Sundance Institute. We do this through transformative artist programs, unique industry mentorship opportunities, and critical filmmaking grants; initiatives all funded by the institute with your support.

Compare all Membership Benefits

[H5] Year-Round Benefits:
Sundance Collab Access: Collab is the Sundance Institute’s online artist community. You will receive a newsletter and invitations to artist conversations, workshops, and Master Class opportunities hosted by filmmakers and industry professionals. Discount on both Collab Master Classes and On-Demand Courses.
[H5] Sundance Film Festival Benefits:
October Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase up to 2 Festival Ticket Packages (10 tickets per package) before the general public.January Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase Single Film Tickets before the general public.Early Ticket Package Fulfillment: Opportunity for Ticket Package holders to select screenings before access opens to the general public.Filmmaker Submission Fees Discount: Receive a discount on one early or official film submission to the Sundance Film Festival.

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Renew Now

Gift the Innovator Membership

[H5] Year-Round Benefits:
Inside the Archives: A newsletter that gives a behind-the-scenes look into the Sundance Institute’s vault of photos, posters, videos, and memories from the past 40+ years. Sundance Collab Access: Collab is the Sundance Institute’s online artist community. You will receive a newsletter and invitations to artist conversations, workshops, and Master Class opportunities hosted by filmmakers and industry professionals. Discount on both Collab Master Classes and On-Demand Courses.Merchandise Discount: Enjoy a special discount off Sundance Film Festival merchandise.
[H5] Sundance Film Festival Benefits:
October Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase up to 3 Festival Ticket Packages (10 tickets per package) before the general public.January Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase Single Film Tickets before the general public.Early Ticket Package Fulfillment: Opportunity for Ticket Package holders to select screenings before access opens to the general public.Filmmaker Submission Fees Discount: Receive a discount on one early or official film submission to the Sundance Film Festival.

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Renew Now

Gift the Enthusiast Membership

[H5] Year-Round Benefits:
Inside the Archives: A newsletter that gives a behind-the-scenes look into the Sundance Institute’s vault of photos, posters, videos, and memories from the past 40+ years. Supporter Shorts: Enjoy this monthly series of a short film from previous Festivals.Sundance Collab Access: Collab is the Sundance Institute’s online artist community. You will receive a newsletter and invitations to artist conversations, workshops, and Master Class opportunities hosted by filmmakers and industry professionals. Discount on both Collab Master Classes and On-Demand Courses.Merchandise Discount: Enjoy a special discount off Sundance Film Festival merchandise.
[H5] Sundance Film Festival Benefits:
October Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase up to 4 Festival Ticket Packages (10 tickets per package) before the general public. January Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase Single Film Tickets before the general public.Early Ticket Package Fulfillment: Opportunity for Ticket Package holders to select screenings before access opens to the general public.Setting the Scene Events: Join us for an exciting event hosted by the Festival Programmers, where you and a guest can enjoy a first look at what’s in store for this year’s festival program. Dates TBA.  Filmmaker Submission Fees Discount: Receive a discount on one early or official film submission to the Sundance Film Festival.

Join Now

Renew Now

Gift the Film Buff Membership

[H5] Year-Round Benefits:
Inside the Archives: A newsletter that gives a behind-the-scenes look into the Sundance Institute’s vault of photos, posters, videos, and memories from the past 40+ years.Supporter Shorts: Enjoy this monthly series of a short film from previous Festivals.Sundance Collab Access: Collab is the Sundance Institute’s online artist community. You will receive a newsletter and invitations to artist conversations, workshops, and Master Class opportunities hosted by filmmakers and industry professionals. Discount on both Collab Master Classes and On-Demand Courses.Merchandise Discount: Enjoy a special discount off Sundance Film Festival merchandise.
[H5] Sundance Film Festival Benefits:
October Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase up to 5 Festival Ticket Packages (10 tickets per package) before the general public.January Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase Single Film Tickets before the general public.Early Ticket Package Fulfillment: Opportunity for Ticket Package holders to select screenings before access opens to the general public.Setting the Scene Events: Join us for an exciting event hosted by the Festival Programmers, where you and a guest can enjoy a first look at what’s in store for this year’s festival program. Dates TBA. Filmmaker Submission Fees Discount: Receive a discount on one early or official film submission to the Sundance Film Festival.

Join Now

Renew Now

Gift the Storyteller Membership

[H2] Donor Circle Tiers and Benefits

Created for independent film and arts enthusiasts, Donor Circles brings our community of generous supporters together with artists and Institute leadership through premium access to the Sundance Film Festival, digital and in-person events, and opportunities to engage with our artist community.

Compare all Donor Circle Benefits

[H5] Year-Round Benefits:
Inside the Archives: A newsletter that gives a behind-the-scenes look into the Sundance Institute’s vault of photos, posters, videos, and memories from the past 40+ years. Supporter Shorts: Enjoy this monthly series of a short film from previous Festivals.Sundance Collab Access: Collab is the Sundance Institute’s online artist community. You will receive a newsletter and invitations to artist conversations, workshops, and Master Class opportunities hosted by filmmakers and industry professionals. Discount on both Collab Master Classes and On-Demand Courses.Merchandise Discount: Enjoy a special discount off Sundance Film Festival merchandise.
[H5] Sundance Film Festival Benefits:
October Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase 1 Full Festival Express Pass OR 1 First Half Express Pass for complete access to any in-person screening or premiere without the need for reservations.October Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase up to 5 Festival Ticket Packages (10 tickets per package) before the general public. January Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase Single Film Tickets before the general public.Early Ticket Package Fulfillment: Opportunity for Ticket Package holders to select screenings before access opens to the general public.Pre-Sale Access – Festival Celebration: Opportunity to purchase Festival Celebration tables and/or individual tickets before the general public.Donor Services Office: Access to personalized customer support and box office services during the Festival.Setting the Scene Events: Join us for an exciting event hosted by the Festival Programmers, where you and a guest can enjoy a first look at what’s in store for this year’s festival program. Dates TBA.Filmmaker Submission Fees Discount: Receive a discount on one early or official film submission to the Sundance Film Festival.

Join Now

Renew Now

[H5] Year-Round Benefits:
Inside the Archives: A newsletter that gives a behind-the-scenes look into the Sundance Institute’s vault of photos, posters, videos, and memories from the past 40+ years. Supporter Shorts: Enjoy this monthly series of a short film from previous Festivals.Sundance Collab Access: Collab is the Sundance Institute’s online artist community. You will receive a newsletter and invitations to artist conversations, workshops, and Master Class opportunities hosted by filmmakers and industry professionals. Discount on both Collab Master Classes and On-Demand Courses.Merchandise Discount: Enjoy a special discount off Sundance Film Festival merchandise.
[H5] Sundance Film Festival Benefits:
October Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase up to 2 Full Festival Express Passes OR 2 First Half Express Passes for complete access to any in-person screening or premiere without the need for reservations. October Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase up to 5 Festival Ticket Packages (10 tickets per package) before the general public. January Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase Single Film Tickets before the general public.Early Ticket Package Fulfillment: Opportunity for Ticket Package holders to select screenings before access opens to the general public.Pre-Sale Access – Festival Celebration: Opportunity to purchase Festival Celebration tables and/or individual tickets before the general public.Donor Services Office: Access to personalized customer support and box office services during the Festival.Setting the Scene Events: Join us for an exciting event hosted by our Festival Programmers, where you and a guest can enjoy a first look at what’s in store for this year’s festival program. Dates TBA.  Filmmaker Submission Fees Discount: Receive a discount on one early or official film submission to the Sundance Film Festival.

Join Now

Renew Now

[H5] Year-Round Benefits:
Inside the Archives: A newsletter that gives a behind-the-scenes look into the Sundance Institute’s vault of photos, posters, videos, and memories from the past 40+ years. Supporter Shorts: Enjoy this monthly series of a short film from previous Festivals.Sundance Collab Access: Collab is the Sundance Institute’s online artist community. You will receive a newsletter and invitations to artist conversations, workshops, and Master Class opportunities hosted by filmmakers and industry professionals. Discount on both Collab Master Classes and On-Demand Courses.Merchandise Discount: Enjoy a special discount off Sundance Film Festival merchandise.
[H5] Sundance Film Festival Benefits:
October Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase up to 4 Full Festival Express Passes OR 4 First Half Express Passes for complete access to any in-person screening or premiere without the need for reservations. October Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase up to 5 Festival Ticket Packages (10 tickets per package) before the general public. January Pre-Sale Access: Opportunity to purchase Single Film Tickets before the general public.Early Ticket Package Fulfillment: Opportunity for Ticket Package holders to select screenings before access opens to the general public.Pre-Sale Access – Festival Celebration: Opportunity to purchase Festival Celebration tables and/or individual tickets before the general public.Donor Services Office: Access to personalized customer support and box office services during the Festival.Setting the Scene Events: Join us for an exciting event hosted by the Festival Programmers, where you and a guest can enjoy a first look at what’s in store for this year’s festival program. Dates TBA.  Filmmaker Submission Fees Discount: Receive a discount on one early or official film submission to the Sundance Film Festival.

Join Now

Renew Now

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[H2] 2026 Sundance Film Festival

Premium Pass & Package Purchase Guidelines

DEADLINES: October 1, 2026: Must be active to qualify for the Donor Circle and Members Pass and Package Pre-Sale.January 2, 2027: Must be active to qualify for Donor Circle and Member Early Ticket Package Fulfillment and the Single Ticket Pre-Sale.All Memberships are valid for one year from the date of activation. All benefits are subject to change.

Sundance Film Festival is a celebration of independent storytelling, made possible by the unwavering generosity of our donor community. We are profoundly grateful for your contributions, which champion independent artists and bring their vital stories to the world. As a token of our deep appreciation, we are pleased to extend these premium  benefits for the Film Festival.

[H2] Donors who contribute $100,000 or more annually

Express Passes: Opportunity to purchase up to 10  Express Passes (First Half, Full Festival, and/or Online Passes). Express Passes are designed for our most committed supporters and offer complete access to any screening or premiere—without the need for reservations. These passes are exclusively available to top-tier donors beginning October 7, 2025, and are limited in number. Early purchase is recommended. Contributions must be received by October 1, 2025 to access this benefit. Express passes include VIP donor concierge services: a dedicated team member will help curate your itinerary and hand-deliver materials. Plus, enjoy exclusive perks at the Eccles Center, including a separate VIP entrance and reserved seating, crafted to make your Festival truly unforgettable.Priority Access Festival Ticket Packages: Opportunity to purchase up to ten ticket packages (10 tickets per package) before the public starting October 7, 2025.Recognition: Your support will be recognized on scre

[H2] Labs,
Fellowships, Grants,
Programs

Labs,Fellowships,Grants,Programs

[H2] Support for Independent Storytellers

“Sundance deepens the resolve of artists, bringing them together in a creative community so that they know they are not alone.” — Robert Redford, President and FounderThe Sundance Institute’s artist programs provide dynamic support at every step of the creative journey for individuals with distinct voices in film and episodic storytelling. Each program consists of labs, grants, intensives, sessions, and ongoing resources for artists to nurture their projects and sustain their careers. Through year-round activities, we provide the space for artists to create and share their stories with the world. Since our inception, the Institute’s programs have supported more than 11,000 artists and fostered a community for independent storytellers to learn, grow, connect, and give back.

[H2] Artist Opportunities

OPEN APPLICATIONSGraton Collab Artist Opportunity

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[H2] Labs, Grants, and Fellowships

At the Institute’s core is a commitment to champion the creation of unique work by individual storytellers. Through open applications and by invitation, we offer labs, grants, intensives, mentorships with accomplished professionals, and ongoing support to advance the development, production, and completion of independent work.We encourage artists from around the world to apply for our programs.View our open and upcoming applications on our deadlines page.

[H2] Artist Accelerator

The Artist Accelerator Program offers opportunities for artists to access funding to advance their projects, build their networks, and grow professionally.

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[H2] Catalyst

Catalyst introduces prospective financiers to a slate of top-notch, Sundance Institute–supported documentary and fiction projects seeking financing. We aim to build a culture of partnership between independent investors and filmmakers.

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[H2] Documentary Film

The Documentary Film Program (DFP) provides year-round support to nonfiction filmmakers worldwide in the production of cinematic documentaries on contemporary themes.

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[H2] Episodic

The Episodic Program provides artists with the tools and training to develop their original series and pilot script.

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[H2] Feature Film

The Feature Film Program provides year-round support to the next generation of filmmakers and encourages a rigorous creative process with a focus on original and deeply resonant storytelling.

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[H2] Ignite

Ignite identifies and supports new voices and talent from the next generation of filmmakers ages 18 to 25 and fosters fresh audiences for independent storytelling.

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[H2] Indigenous Program

Sundance Institute’s commitment to supporting Native American artists is woven throughout our history. The program is designed in response to the specific needs of Native and Indigenous storytellers.

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[H2] Equity, Impact, and Belonging

The Equity, Impact, and Belonging Program encompasses our initiatives across all programs within our organization to deepen engagement with storytellers and audiences across ethnicities, genders, abilities, sexual orientations, and geographic regions.

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[H2] Producers Program

The Producers Program supports both fiction and nonfiction producers at all stages of their feature-length projects and their careers through a year-round continuum of support.

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[H2] Women at Sundance Institute

Women at Sundance Institute is dedicated to providing support to women filmmakers while creating gender equity in American media and innovating ways for women to succeed as storytellers who shape our cultural landscape.

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[H2] Sundance Collab

Sundance Collab is a free-to-join global learning and storytelling community for creators. The community platform gives filmmakers opportunities to get advice, personalized feedback, and resources while forging new connections with other artists. Learn, share, and connect.

Join Now

[H2] Code of Conduct

All Sundance Institute programs — including our labs, intensives, and sessions — are environments where bold, creative, and distinctive voices are celebrated. Sundance Institute is committed to allowing attendees to experience these programs free of harassment, discrimination, sexism, and threatening or disrespectful behavior. We reserve the right, without notice or refund of any related costs, to limit or revoke access to our programs for those who engage in such conduct. If you are involved in or witness something that violates this code of conduct, please notify someone on our staff, and we will work swiftly and discreetly to take appropriate action. For emergencies, immediately dial 9-1-1.

[H2] About Us

About Us

[H2] Our Story

“Storytellers broaden our minds: engage, provoke, inspire, and ultimately, connect us.” — Robert Redford, president and founder

As a champion and curator of independent stories, the nonprofit Sundance Institute provides and preserves the space for artists in film and episodic storytelling to create and thrive.Robert Redford founded the Institute in 1981 to foster independence, risk-taking, and new voices in American film. That year, 10 emerging filmmakers were invited to the Sundance Resort in the mountains of Utah, where they worked with leading writers, directors, and actors to develop their original independent projects.Today, our team of 165 employees works year-round to offer 12 labs and intensives, grants exceeding $3 million, and ongoing mentorships that support more than 1000 artists each year. Each January, the Sundance Film Festival introduces a global audience to groundbreaking work and emerging talent in independent film.In addition to the Festival, the Sundance Institute hosts many public programs in the U.S. and around the world to connect artists with audiences to present original voices, inspire new ideas, and create community around independent storytelling.

A Story Begins: History of Sundance Institute. Explore our timeline

[H2] Annual Reports

Read the 2025 Sundance Film Festival Economic Impact Report More >Read the 2024 Sundance Film Festival Economic Impact Report More >Read the 2023 Sundance Film Festival Economic Impact Report More >Read the 2020 Sundance Film Festival Economic Impact Report More >Read the 2019 Sundance Institute Annual ReportMore >Read the 2018 Sundance Institute Annual ReportMore >

Read the 2023 Financial Statements And Independent Auditor’s ReportMore >Read the 2022 Financial Statements And Independent Auditor’s ReportMore >Read the 2021 Financial Statements And Independent Auditor’s ReportMore >Read the 2020 Financial Statements And Independent Auditor’s ReportMore >Read the 2019 Financial Statements And Independent Auditor’s ReportMore >Read the 2018 Financial Statements And Independent Auditor’s ReportMore >Read the 2017 Financial Statements And Independent Auditor’s ReportMore >

Donor Privacy Policy

[H2] Our Mission

The Sundance Institute is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the discovery and development of independent artists and audiences. Through its programs, the Institute seeks to discover, support, and inspire independent film and media artists from the United States and around the world, and to introduce audiences to their new work.

[H2] Our Vision

We believe that a story driven by an individual, authentic voice can awaken new ideas that have the power to delight and entertain, push creative boundaries, spark new levels of empathy and understanding, and even lead to social change. We support independent storytellers and advance the impact of their work in the world.

Robert Redford, President & Founder More >

[H2] Board of Trustees

Ebs Burnough, Board ChairMore >Sean Bailey, Vice ChairMore >Jason BlumMore >Kimberlé CrenshawMore >Philipp EngelhornMore >Caterina FakeMore >Nina Fialkow More >Jeanne Donovan FisherMore >Scott Frank More >Robert J. FrankenbergMore >Patrick GaspardMore >Donna GruneichMore >Charles D. KingMore >Ann LewnesMore >Wonya LucasMore >

Gigi Pritzker, Vice ChairMore >Shripriya MaheshMore >Pat Mitchell More >David NevinsMore >Peter NicksMore >William PlapingerMore >Alejandro Ramírez MagañaMore >Amy RedfordMore >Geoffrey K. SandsMore >Greg SarrisMore >Blair Ligelis SteinMore >Kimberly StewardMore >Tessa ThompsonMore >Barry TyermanWalter L. Weisman, Chair EmeritusMore >

[H2] Director's Advisory Group

Jason Hirschhorn More >
Andrew JareckiMore >
Aminatou SowMore >

Tim Wu More >
Lauren ZalaznickMore >
Blake Krikorian 1967-2016More >

[H2] Leadership

David Linde: CEOMore >Michelle Satter: Founding Senior Director, Artist ProgramsMore >

Eugene Hernandez, Festival Director and Head of Public ProgrammingMore >

[H2] Sundance Institute Departmental Contacts

[H2] General Inquiries

[H2] institute@sundance.org

[H2] Customer Support

[H2] sundancesupport@sundance.org

[H2] Accessibility

[H2] accessibility@sundance.org

[H2] Accounting

[H2] accounting@sundance.org

[H2] Corporate Giving

[H2] corporategiving@sundance.org

[H2] Individual Giving

[H2] giving@sundance.org

[H2] Sundance Film Festival
Industry Office

[H2] sio@sundance.org

[H2] Media Relations

[H2] press@sundance.org

[H2] Membership

[H2] membership@sundance.org

[H2] Indigenous Program

[H2] indigenous_program@sundance.org

[H2] Documentary Film Program

[H2] dfp@sundance.org

[H2] Feature Film Program

[H2] featurefilmprogram@sundance.org

[H2] Institutional Giving

[H2] institutionalgiving@sundance.org

[H2] Human Resources

[H2] hr@sundance.org

[H2] Ignite Program

[H2] ignite@sundance.org

[H2] Artist Accelerator

[H2] artistaccelerator@sundance.org

[H2] Store

[H2] sff_merchandise@sundance.org

[H2] Donor Circles

[H2] donorcircles@sundance.org

[H2] Outside Legal Counsel

[H2] Corey Field, Esq.

[H2] Utah Community Program

[H2] Please visit
sundance.org/sundancelocals

[H2] Legal Department

[H2] legal@sundance.org

Interested in working for the Sundance Institute?Browse available opportunities on the job board.