Over 1 in 4 American adults are disabled, that’s 70 million people. Then, why are there less than 2% of disabled characters on screen and 2% of disabled writers in Hollywood writers’ rooms?
Writers often can not access basic opportunities to hone their craft and to meet professionals in entertainment. Access is opportunity. 1IN4 is working to change that by supporting storytellers wanting to write about the experience of disability.
THE WRITERS – Mentees
1IN4 Coalition Creates 1IN4 Writers, a Mentorship Program
1IN4 Writers Mentorship Program (1IN4 Writers) supports writers by creating access to relationships, feedback, and resources, which are key to career building.
Mentees will receive from their mentors feedback on their writing and guidance navigating the industry. Upon the completion of the 2025-2026 mentorship program, each mentee will receive a $20,000 unrestricted grant sponsored by Netflix.
Past programming included speakers from Entertainment 360, Black List, Extracurricular, NBCUniversal, Pillars Fund, Sundance, and Nickelodeon to name a few.
Do you have a completed film script, TV pilot or play with one or more disabled characters?
Are you a U.S. resident?
Apply for 1IN4 Writers!
TIMELINE FOR THE 2025-2026 PROGRAM
SUBMISSION PERIOD: September 8 2025 – October 20, 2025
PROGRAM DATES: December 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026
Form for Mentees
INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS- Mentors
1IN4 Coalition Creates 1IN4 Writers, a Mentorship Program for Writers
Are you an industry professional (writer, director, playwright, producer, executive, manager or agent) looking to mentor writers? 1IN4 Coalition is working to connect writers with professionals in the industry, through 1IN4 Writers Mentorship Program (1IN4 Writers).
Mentors are committed to providing feedback to their mentee’s script, and set aside 3 meetings to answer their questions.
Support 1IN4 Writers by becoming a mentor!
Form for Mentors
FAQ:
Are we allowed to apply after being a previous mentee?
In the interest of providing mentorship to new candidates, we are not accepting applications from program alumni at this time.
I know a friend who is not disabled, but has lived with and cared for a disabled person for decades. Is my friend eligible?
Yes, your friend would be eligible. Anyone that is a U.S. resident with a completed writing sample (pilot, feature screenplay, or stage play) that contains one or more disabled character is eligible.
What about 1IN4 Canadians– can they apply?
This is the first time that we are able to include a grant to this mentorship program. We had to keep it within the U.S., but we hope to broaden our reach for future cohorts!
Do applicants need to be pre-WGA?
No prior guild connections needed to apply.
What does the “unrestricted” grant mean? Does the money have to be used for the script that I submit as a part of my application?
Mentees from the 2025-2026 mentorship cycle will each receive a $20,000 unrestricted grant upon the successful completion of the program. Use it in unrestricted ways: living expenses, short films, or for any purpose that supports the mentee.