From Micro-Budget to the Sundance Film Festival: The Real Path of Independent Producing

All of the numbers, none of the secrets. A transparent look at the true indie producing process from start to finish.

This comprehensive live online intensive course reveals the actual mechanics of independent film producing. Unlike theoretical workshops, this class uses real budgets, genuine contracts, and authentic industry documents from an actual indie feature that traveled from micro-budget production to festival circuit success.

Over the course of four days, you'll examine every stage of the independent producing process through the lens of transparency and practical application. Each session combines in-depth analysis of real industry materials with hands-on exercises that simulate actual producer responsibilities. You'll review genuine investor agreements, negotiate industry specific scenarios, analyze authentic festival submission materials, and evaluate real distribution offers.

This intensive format is designed for aspiring producers, filmmakers seeking to understand the business side of their craft, and industry professionals looking to deepen their producing knowledge. The course combines expert instruction with peer collaboration, creating a dynamic learning environment that mirrors the collaborative nature of film production itself. Every topic is grounded in actual case studies and supported by real industry documentation. No secrets, no shortcuts—just the real path of independent producing.

What you'll learn from the course:

• An overview of production budgets
• An understanding of financing models including equity, debt, and pre-sales
• Casting processes and talent agreements
• Post-production workflows from editorial through delivery
• Strategies for festival submission
• Pathways for your film’s distribution

What you bring to the course:

• Familiarity with the film production process - this is not an entry level course
• A basic understanding of the film business

This course will:

• Equip you with core producing skills
• Connect you with a community of peers via discussion boards and live interactive sessions
• Give you a realistic understanding of what it takes to bring an independent film from concept to audience.

Intensive Schedule

• Introductory Session: Monday, July 28
• 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (PT)
• Day 1: Tuesday, July 29
• 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (PT)
• Day 2: Wednesday, July 30
• 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (PT)
• Day 3: Thursday, July 31
• 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (PT)
• Day 4: Friday, August 1
• 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (PT)

A limited number of need-based scholarships are available and are considered on a rolling basis as they are received. Those who apply earlier will have a greater chance of getting support. To apply for a scholarship, please complete the course registration form.

Sundance Collab provides accommodations and support services to participants with disabilities. Accommodations and services are designed to meet the needs of each participant. Please email us at accessibility@sundance.org to arrange for services.