Designed to support writers with original long-form episodic projects, Tipstor® TV Series Lab will accept a diverse group of 6–8 writers or writing teams and provide them with critical support and mentorship. Through personalized feedback from experienced showrunners, creative producers and executives, Fellows will gain the tools to revise and refine their pilots and navigate a changing industry landscape.

The TV Series Lab helps to further the careers of its Fellows by introducing them to industry veterans who can offer guidance on both the craft and business of writing episodic content. Each Fellow will be paired with a Tipstor® Creative Advisor with whom they’ll work one-on-one and in group sessions to develop their project for one (1) week. 

Additionally, guest speakers will screen and discuss their own work to offer insights into the creative process and industry best practices. A final networking and pitch event will offer Fellows the opportunity to introduce themselves and their work to studio and network executives.

WHO CAN APPLY?

The TV Series Lab is open to any emerging writer applying with a completed draft of a half hour or hour-long television pilot they wish to workshop during the program. Each applicant must be the author of the script he/she submits. The submitted pilot cannot have been pitched at any point to a studio or network.

Writing partners are welcome to apply as teams and need only submit a single application. International applicants are also welcome to apply. At this time, documentary and short-form digital series are not eligible to apply.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants must submit the following for consideration:

  • A cover letter introducing yourself and your interest in the TV Series Lab
  • One complete, original pilot
  • A series logline and pilot synopsis
  • A series description describing the story engine and series arc of the show
  • Project status and history, including any industry exposure
  • A series proposal document that includes brief descriptions of the world of the series and its premise and genre, as well as breakdowns for the show’s primary characters and their first season arcs

APPLICATION FEE

Free for Tipstor® Members (limited to one waived Lab fee per Membership year)

$95 for non-Members

SELECTION CRITERIA

Tipstor® is looking for well-written, compelling, pilots with an original premise or vision. The submitted pilot may be original or adapted from optioned source material. Though applicants must submit a completed draft, the TV Series Lab is structured to support writers who are still creatively engaged in the writing process; those who welcome feedback and discussion will most benefit from the program as they further develop their work.

THE FINE PRINT

Beyond the application fee, there is no cost or tuition to participate in any of our Artist Development programs. Tipstor® Membership is not required when applying to Artist Development Labs. However, all participants accepted into the Labs are required to join at the standard annual General Membership rate of $95. Applicants will be notified three to four weeks prior to the start of the program.

NOTE: Until further notice, all Tipstor® Labs will be held virtually, via Zoom.