Tyler Perry Just Launched a Game-Changing Film Grant for Emerging Creatives—Here’s How to Apply!
- Sahndra Fon Dufe
- Mar 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 31
Tyler Perry Launches Dream Collective to Empower Emerging Filmmakers Amid Industry DEI Cutbacks
Inside the Tyler Perry Studios Dream Collective: A Life-Changing Opportunity for Filmmakers
Renowned filmmaker and media mogul Tyler Perry is celebrated for his extensive contributions to Georgia's film industry, and he has unveiled the Tyler Perry Studios Dream Collective. This initiative aims to nurture and support emerging talent in the entertainment sector, offering a beacon of hope as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs face reductions across Hollywood.
Perry, the acclaimed filmmaker and visionary behind Tyler Perry Studios, has unveiled the Tyler Perry Studios Dream Collective, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at nurturing and empowering emerging filmmakers, particularly those from historically underrepresented communities.
SUCCESS IN GEORGIA: A Legacy of Storytelling and Economic Impact in Georgia
Over the past two decades, Perry has solidified his reputation as a prolific creator, producing a multitude of films and television shows that resonate with diverse audiences. Tyler Perry's impact on Georgia's film landscape is unparalleled. Operating from his expansive 330-acre studio in Atlanta, Perry has produced numerous successful projects, including 11 seasons of the BET series House of Payne. His endeavors have significantly bolstered the state's economy, with Tyler Perry Studios generating approximately $142.7 Million in annual revenue. Since its inception, the studio has contributed nearly USD $907 Million to Atlanta's economy, underscoring Perry's role as a pivotal figure in the region's entertainment industry, according to Atlanta Magazine.
Introducing the Dream Collective
In celebration of his 20th year in Hollywood, Perry is launching the Dream Collective to identify, cultivate, and elevate the next generation of dynamic filmmakers. This three-tiered program focuses on practical training, mentorship, and career sustainability, offering five selected filmmakers a $30,000 grant each to produce a short film in the greater Atlanta area.
Addressing DEI Challenges in Hollywood
The launch of the Dream Collective comes at a critical time when DEI initiatives within Hollywood are experiencing notable cutbacks. Recent studies have highlighted a decline in diversity across top film roles, with actors of color representing only 25.2% of lead roles in 2024, down from 29.2% in 2023. Additionally, the Federal Communications Commission has initiated investigations into companies over DEI policies, further challenging the industry's commitment to inclusivity.
- Georgia JOURNAL
Empowering the Next Generation
In this context, Perry's Dream Collective stands as a proactive effort to counteract the diminishing support for diverse voices in entertainment. By providing resources, mentorship, and platforms for underrepresented filmmakers, the initiative seeks to cultivate a more inclusive and vibrant industry landscape.
Eligibility
Aspiring filmmakers must have five years of experience, be eligible to work in the United States, must have directed two visual samples of narrative (fiction) work within the last five years, and must have a compelling short film that must be shot in Georgia within the program’s budget.
Read Official Rules here
Application Process:
The program unfolds in five rounds:
🔹 Round 1: From April 17 to May 1, 2025, filmmakers can submit their past work and materials that showcase their vision. Only 1,000 entries will be accepted, and 100 finalists will be selected in May.
🔹 Round 2: The 100 finalists will participate in a four-week virtual workshop, gaining insights from industry professionals on collaboration, storytelling, and overcoming challenges in the film industry.
🔹 Round 3: The finalists will submit Short Film scripts, with 10 winners chosen in July 2025.
🔹 Round 4: The 10 winners will engage in an immersive 10-day training workshop at Tyler Perry Studios, working directly with industry professionals, department heads, and actors to refine their projects. After pitching their Short Film vision, five Grand Prize Winners will be selected.
🔹 Round 5: The five Grand Prize Winners will receive $30,000 in production funding from Tyler Perry Studios to bring their Short Films to life. They’ll also gain access to local crew, production resources, and mentorship from Tyler Perry Studios and top industry professionals.
Application Details
Aspiring filmmakers are encouraged to prepare their scripts and pitches in anticipation of the application window, which opens on April 17th and closes on May 1st. This initiative underscores Perry's belief in building one's own opportunities and supporting others whose lives are intertwined with these creative dreams.
For comprehensive program details, official rules, and frequently asked questions, please visit the Tyler Perry Studios Dream Collective website. This platform provides all the necessary information to guide applicants through the process of joining this transformative journey.