The Breakdown

Kashif is launching Screenplay for the People, an open call uplifting phenomenal, original short scripts from new and emerging voices.
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Kashif’s Screenplay for the People will recognize eight short screenplays with a $2,000 cash award each. And one storyteller will have their short film executive produced by Kashif in 2027 - an award valued at over $75,000.
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We want to read your original script (up to 18 pages).

There is no fee to apply.
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‍Screenplay for the People is a celebration of writing. Writing means taking a risk. Writing means overcoming.

“We do this in service of wanting to change culture, change the narrative, for our stories to be there so they can be the connective tissue for us to better see each other.”

— Chanelle Elaine, Kashif Founder

How does Screenplay
For the People work?

1. Fill out our brief application.

2. Agree to our terms and conditions.

3. Upload your original fiction short screenplay (up to 18 pages) in standard screenplay format (no docs or non-fiction please)

4. Let us know on the application if you’re interested in the production award to direct your short film.

5. You can only submit one script, so don't hold back.

6. Make sure you have the rights to the material, and it has not been previously produced.

7. Follow us on Instagram and join Kashif’s newsletter for the latest updates about Screenplay for the People.

8. We’re only accepting the first 100 screenplays (so don’t wait to submit).

Who is this for?

You are 18 years of age or older.
You identify with any of the following communities: Black, Indigenous, POC, LGBTQIA+ or gender non-conforming, disabled, veteran, as well as those committed to forging new paths beyond the confines of inherited systems.
You have not previously written, directed, or produced a feature-length fiction film or episodic. If you've made shorts or documentaries you are still eligible.
You reside in the lower 48 States (which excludes Alaska and Hawaii, sorry).
You are not currently enrolled in a film school program.
You are the sole writer of the screenplay and own the rights to the material (i.e. not part of a writing team or adapting a novel).

A Production Award...say more

Are you interested in directing your script? Kashif will executive produce one storyteller's short film - an award valued at over $75,000 - as part of Making Dope Shorts, Kashif’s inaugural filmmaking lab.

Making Dope Shorts is a lab designed to support a writer/director through the creative process of making a short film. Making Dope Shorts provides resources, mentorship from professional filmmakers, works-in-progress feedback, production and post-production support.

Project development begins in 2026 with script revisions and advisor meetings, and continues over the course of 2027 as the project goes into full production.

If selected as a finalist for Making Dope Shorts, you will participate in a live pitching process in New York City in August of 2026 to determine the winner (Kashif will cover transportation costs. Participants must reside in the lower 48 states during the full duration of the lab).

Please note, all production will take place in NY. We still want you to submit your script even if it doesn’t take place in NY. We will work with you to adapt the script for production.

SCREENPLAY For The PEOPLE FAQs

What is the review process?
All scripts will be reviewed by an independent reader panel and selected scripts will move on to additional rounds of review by a jury.

I am a first-time writer without experience, can I apply to the production award?
Yes!

I’m in the process of making a feature film; am I still eligible to apply?
Congrats, friend, on making your feature, but you are not eligible to apply.

When will we receive notification or updates?
Semi-finalists will be announced in June. Finalists in July. Prize winners in August! Dates are subject to change.

What kinds of stories are you looking for? Would you consider producing my epic period drama set over several decades?
Write the thing that’s captured your heart and mind. As long as it’s a fictional idea, we’re into reading it. However, to be considered for the production award your script should be low-budget friendly. It will be produced in the NY area.

I have a great idea, but I’m not a screenwriter. How much does formatting count?
We understand formatting has a learning curve but your submission should read like a screenplay. Here’s a quick tutorial video and software links Final Draft Trial or Studio Binder to get started.

Making Dope Shorts FAQs

Will Making Dope Shorts pay its artists?
Yes. Kashif believes that artists deserve to be paid for their time/work and this includes compensation for the lab participant.

Who owns the film after it's produced?
As the writer/director, you still own your work, however you grant Kashif (and its licensees and assigns) the rights to that work worldwide, in all media, in perpetuity. This would function as a traditional executive producer / writer/director relationship.

Can I upload a pitch deck or budget for my project?
No, but props for having those completed!