SHOOT's Production Outlook Survey of agency chief creative officers, creative directors, heads of production and executive producers found diversity and inclusion to be among the prominent issues of concern. Various initiatives have emerged to help spark progress on the DEI front--including on the entertainment content creation side. One such program is the inaugural Film Independent Imaginar TV Incubator for Fearless Latinx Creators launched by Film Independent and FX, a division of Disney Entertainment, in collaboration with the National Association of Latino Independent Producers (NALIP).

The Incubator will sponsor six Latinx creators as they participate in workshops, conversations and individual meetings providing support, insight on the FX Networks drama programming brand and direct access to industry leaders. 

Shola Ajewole, SVP creative & cultural diversity, FX, said, “This program continues our longstanding commitment to developing programming that is reflective of the world we live in, and amplifying the voices we have not yet heard from.”

Gina Balian, president, FX Entertainment, added,  “By combining Film Independent’s innovative writer programs and knack for finding the next generation of creators with FX’s brand of fearless storytelling, we have been able to create a new program to engage Latinx creators in our search for the next hit series for FX.” 

The first part of the two-week Incubator is a three-day intensive that will focus on workshopping selected one-hour drama pilots, deepening pitch skills, and gaining access and insights into the FX development process. Creators will pitch their original one-hour drama pilots to FX at the conclusion of the initial intensive. Over the remainder of the program, creators will have individual meetings with creative advisors and execs to develop a second original drama concept that will be pitched to FX on the final day. A $3,000 grant will be awarded to each participant, along with travel grants as required for selected creators participation.

Celebrating 30 years, Film Independent Artist Development programs support creative voices and diverse perspectives in film and television by giving filmmakers crucial resources they need to advance their projects and build sustainable careers. Alumni of Artist Development programs include Tze Chun (I’m a Virgo), Linda Yvette Chavez and Marvin Lemus (Gentified), LaToya Morgan (Duster), and Robbie Pickering (Gaslit).

The application deadline for the Incubator for Fearless Latinx Creators is February 2, with an extended deadline for Film Independent members on February 9. To apply, visit filmindependent.org.