Hamilton County, Ohio – Watch the State of the County 2025 given by Hamilton County Commission President Denise Driehaus on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at Memorial Hall.
Author: Loveland Magazine
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Federal funding cuts would significantly affect local nonprofits, survey shows
Cincinnati, Ohio – Recent executive orders and administrative memos have increased the focus on federal grants and contracts. A study exploring the impact such cuts would have on individuals and families in Greater Cincinnati found that most nonprofits receive at least 25% or more of their operating budgets from the federal government. Two-thirds of nonprofits indicated they’d face difficult choices regarding service reductions or closures within six months of federal funding disruption. One organization reported it would be forced to close immediately.
United Way partnered with local funders, including Greater Cincinnati Foundation and Interact for Health, to survey 109 organizations in our region during three weeks in February. The survey sought to identify the scope of services supported locally by federal funding and how organizations might manage a federal funding freeze.
Many organizations said they would pursue private and corporate foundation funding to bridge the gap if faced with these cuts. Federal funding accounts for more than $1 trillion in support for state and local programs. These programs provide services ranging from essential needs and housing to youth education and workforce development. Private philanthropy cannot make up the difference.
“Organizations like United Way provide grants to local nonprofits because we believe in the work they are doing to make a positive impact across our region,” said Moira Weir, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Cincinnati. “While our contributions can be crucial, federal funding often constitutes a significant portion, or even the bulk of, a nonprofit’s budget.”
Federal funding supports state and local operations by design. This policy approach ensures that federal resources provide meaningful support. Local organizations are equipped to respond effectively to communities’ evolving needs, making nonprofits vital for stability.
“Nonprofits aren’t just recipients of federal funding,” said Weir. “They play an important role in the community and help the federal government fulfill its obligations to citizens.
“Without this funding, many of our friends and neighbors could lose access to basic needs or support systems that can put them on a path to a better future.”
[pdf-embedder url=”https://lovelandmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/UWGC_Federal-Funding-Impact-Assessment_1pgr.pdf”]About United Way of Greater CincinnatiWe empower everyone in our region to achieve economic well-being so our entire community can thrive – now and in the future. Founded in 1915, UWGC is one of the region’s largest nonprofit organizations. It is committed to working alongside policymakers, community partners and donors to promote educational success, financial empowerment and housing security. Learn more about UWGC’s work across nine counties in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana at UWGC.org. #UnitedWeThrive -
John “Sawyer” Blackledge awarded Emergency Services Scholarship
Provided Photo
Loveland, Ohio – The Loveland Police Officers Association and the Loveland Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association have awarded their Emergency Services Scholarship to John “Sawyer” Blackledge. Sawyer is a senior at Loveland High School who plans to study criminal justice at the University of Cincinnati and become a police officer.
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What Ohio Teens Should Know About Minor Work Permits
Securing Your Summer Job
The rules change slightly during the summer
With summer right around the corner, many Ohio teens likely plan to use the upcoming break to earn money, build skills, and gain work experience. However, if they don’t take the necessary steps, that summer excitement may quickly turn to disappointment. That’s why the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Industrial Compliance’s Bureau of Wage and Hour is encouraging Ohio youth and their parents or guardians take steps now to understand whether they will need to secure a Minor Work Permit.
While youth aged 14, 15, 16 and 17 are required to have a Minor Work Permit during the school year, the rules change slightly during the summer. During the summer break when school isn’t in session, only individuals aged 14 and 15 are required to have a work permit.
Many mistakenly believe they need to secure a work permit before they start their job hunt; however, teens must secure a job offer first since the permit application requires details about the specific job and its duties. If a teen plans to work multiple jobs over the summer, they need a separate permit for each job.
Minor Work Permits – A Breakdown of the Process
- Start your job search and secure a job offer.
- Download the Minor Work Permit application at com.ohio.gov/MinorWorkPermit.
- Complete the application, have it signed by a parent or guardian, and have your employer fill out the necessary information.
- Return the completed application to the school district in which your child resides. The school district will review and approve any permit applications.
- Once approved, you are permitted to begin working.
“We want to ensure that Ohio’s young workers start their summer jobs on the right foot,” said Stephen Clegg, Wage & Hour Administration Bureau Chief. “Work permits are an important and necessary safeguard to ensure teens are working in safe conditions and within the guidelines set to protect their well-being. Our team is here to support families throughout the process, helping young workers prepare early so they can focus on building skills and gaining valuable experience this summer.”
Ohio outlines specific rules for how many hours teens can work, depending on their age and whether school is in session. During the school year, teens aged 14 and 15 can work up to 18 hours a week, but must conclude their shifts by 7 p.m. on school nights. During summer break, they can work up to 40 hours a week and stay on the job until 9 p.m. Older teens aged 16 or 17 are able to work during the school year until 11 p.m. on school nights; however, they have no restrictions on their work hours when school is not in session.
Regardless of age or season, Ohio law ensures that all minors under the age of 18 get a 30-minute break after every five hours of consecutive work, promoting their well-being throughout the year.
The summer hiring season is often competitive, making it essential to plan in advance. Teenagers and their parents or guardians are encouraged to gather the necessary documents as early as possible to prevent delays when a summer job opportunity becomes available.
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LIFE Food Pantry News and Updates
Loveland, Ohio – A Loveland mother of four teenagers visited the LIFE Food Pantry a few weeks ago. She had been a regular client but stopped visiting after securing a job. Unfortunately, an injury left her unable to work, forcing her to rely on minimal child support. She hopes to return to work soon, but your support made it possible for her to count on LIFE Food Pantry to help feed her family and support them in getting through a very difficult situation.
Donor Spotlight: Kids!
Think you need a big bank account to make a big difference? Nope! In fact, you don’t even have to be an adult. Some of our most active donors are kids.During the past month, two young men celebrating their Bar Mitzvahs commemorated their rites of passage by earning money to purchase in-demand items to fill our shelves. Thank you, Peyton and Levi!
Enzo, who celebrated his seventh birthday in March, requested that friends and family gift him nonperishable food items instead of presents. He is pictured with his haul, all of which he gave to LIFE.
These selfless kids are proof that our youngest community members are making a big impact.
Help Us Stock Our Shelves
Disinfectant wipes, all-purpose cleaners, dish soap, sponges, and laundry detergent are always in high demand.
Three Ways to Get Involved
LIFE Food Pantry is looking for personal shoppers to support clients, donation drivers to pickup food donations, and volunteers to sort and stock donations.
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Apply for Grant Funding During Financial Literacy Month
Educational Organizations/Non-Profits Reminded to Submit Financial Literacy Grant Applications by April 30
Each year, the Division’s Financial Literacy Grant Program awards up to $50,000 in funds to educational organizations throughout Ohio in support of initiatives aimed at improving financial literacy. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, community colleges and state institutions, are encouraged to submit program proposals that aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to become financially independent. Programs may be conducted virtually or in person and should be tailored to community needs.
The deadline to apply for the Financial Literacy Grant is Wednesday, April 30. For more information, visit com.ohio.gov/FinancialLiteracy.
April marks Financial Literacy Month, which is a perfect time for individuals of all ages to assess their financial knowledge, establish realistic budgets, and ensure they are staying on track toward achieving their financial goals. In recognition of this month, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Financial Institutions is sharing tips to help Ohioans better manage their budgets, while highlighting available funding to support youth financial education programs across the state.
“Financial Literacy Month is all about helping to equip people with the information, tools and resources they need to effectively manage their financial circumstances,” Division Superintendent Kevin Allard said. “From setting realistic budgets to managing unexpected expenses, education is key to making informed decisions. Additionally, the Financial Literacy Grant Program is a great opportunity to connect organizations of all sizes who are dedicated to educating young Ohioans with key funding that can make a real and meaningful difference throughout these individuals’ lives.”
Recent statistics highlight the growing importance of financial education. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, approximately 36% of consumers described being “just getting by” with their finances in 2024. In addition, 43% of families reported they had difficulty paying expenses, which marked an increase from 38% in 2023. Generation Z, in particular, struggles with financial literacy, answering only 37% of financial literacy index questions correctly in 2024.
To help individuals make financial progress, the Division offers the following simple, yet effective tips that can be tailored to individual needs and circumstances:
- Determine Your Income: Refer to your net income, not gross income, to create a realistic and achievable plan.
- Track Your Spending: Identify what you’re currently spending your money on so you can find areas for improvement.
- Set Financial Goals: Focus on specific objectives such as building an emergency fund or paying off debt.
- Adjust as Needed: Be flexible and adapt your budgeting to life changes or unexpected challenges.
- Automate Savings: By making savings automatic, you can simplify the process and ensure consistency.
Building smart and easy financial habits is relevant at any age. The Financial Literacy Grant Program is an important part of that process through its funding of initiatives that enhance financial education for young Ohioans that provide the tools necessary to achieve financial independence.
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Latest weather advisories
Little Miami River level prediction for South Lebanon
Loveland, Ohio – The National Weather Service in Wilmington says a tornado outbreak is expected today and tonight from parts of the lower Mississippi Valley into the Mid-South and lower Ohio Valley. Numerous tornadoes, along with multiple long-track EF3+ tornadoes, appear likely. A multi-day, potentially historic heavy rainfall event may produce catastrophic and life-threatening flooding today through Saturday from the Ozarks into the Ohio River Valley.
For Loveland:
• WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM THIS MORNING TO MIDNIGHT EDT TONIGHT... • FLOOD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THIS EVENING THROUGH SUNDAY MORNING • Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible.
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WCPO: The Tri-State is under a FLOOD WATCH starting this evening through Sunday morning. 4-8 inches of rainfall is possible. Expect to see creeks, streams, and rivers rising, some potentially quickly. Flash flooding cannot be ruled out at times, either. Stay weather-aware if you live along those waterways, and be ready to reach higher ground. Showers and storms will arrive in southeast Indiana around 9-10 p.m. The line will then move toward the Cincinnati metro area and the heart of the Tri-State between 10 p.m. and midnight. This is when we’ll see most of our severe thunderstorms and tornado warnings. The line of storms will continue pushing east of I-75 between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., still producing severe storms. The threat of severe weather will end before the morning drive.
Local 12: Strong to Severe Storms likely. Heavy rain takes over into Thursday AM. A Flood Watch has been issued from Wednesday evening through Sunday morning. During this time, waves of heavy rain and storms are expected and some places could pick up 5″ or more of rainfall resulting in flooding.
Fox19: The Tri-State is under an Enhanced Risk (3 out of 5) for severe storms, flooding rain, and powerful winds on Wednesday.
WLWT: By Thursday morning, 2-3 inches of rain will have fallen in some communities, which leads to a flash flooding potential. Totals will be around 5-8+ inches. The heaviest rain bands could also come overnight.
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National Weather Service is predicting significant storm and flooding
Loveland, Ohio – The National Weather Service is reporting that a significant storm will track across the central U.S. and into the Great Lakes through Thursday. Heavy snow and blowing snow is expected from the northern Plains into the Upper Midwest. Further south, severe thunderstorms are expected from the southern Plains into the Midwest as well as a multi-day excessive rain and flooding event Wednesday through Saturday from the Ozarks into the Ohio Valley.
A Flood Watch has been issued for Loveland
FLOOD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM WEDNESDAY EVENING THROUGH SUNDAY MORNING
"People in the watch area, especially those living in areas prone to flooding, should be prepared to take action should flooding develop."
WCPO reports that our region could see 4-8″ of rainfall in total.
Local 12 says a Flood Watch has been issued from Wednesday evening through Sunday morning. During this time, waves of heavy rain and storms are expected and some places could pick up 5″ or more of rainfall resulting in flooding.
The Fox 19 Weather Team says anywhere from three to six inches of rain could fall.
WLWT predicts significant rainfall projected with 5-8+ inches by the weekend.
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noaa.gov provides Little Miami River level information from Milford that is convenient to view.
Historic Crests for Little Miami River in Milford1. 30.50 ft on 03-27-1913 2. 27.30 ft on 01-22-1959 3. 21.81 ft on 07-18-2001 4. 21.69 ft on 04-16-1998 5. 21.28 ft on 03-19-2008 Recent Crests for Little Miami River in Milford
1. 19.65 ft on 02-18-2022 (P) 2. 18.27 ft on 06-19-2021 (P) 3. 19.65 ft on 05-19-2020 (P) 4. 18.00 ft on 04-20-2019 5. 17.65 ft on 03-31-2019 6. 18.45 ft on 02-08-2019 7. 17.38 ft on 02-06-2019 8. 18.00 ft on 04-03-2018 9. 20.43 ft on 02-25-2018 10. 18.56 ft on 11-06-2017 11. 19.91 ft on 03-01-2017 12. 19.35 ft on 05-02-2012 13. 19.13 ft on 12-06-2011 14. 17.87 ft on 04-19-2011 15. 21.28 ft on 03-19-2008 16. 17.07 ft on 03-02-2007 17. 17.88 ft on 03-28-2005 18. 19.10 ft on 01-06-2005 19. 20.62 ft on 01-05-2004 20. 17.10 ft on 09-03-2003 21. 17.29 ft on 06-06-2002 22. 21.81 ft on 07-18-2001 23. 18.20 ft on 02-18-2000 24. 17.50 ft on 02-14-2000 25. 17.40 ft on 01-04-2000 26. 21.69 ft on 04-16-1998 27. 19.33 ft on 06-01-1997 28. 19.30 ft on 05-11-1996 29. 17.17 ft on 04-29-1996 30. 17.89 ft on 05-18-1995 31. 19.30 ft on 04-10-1994 32. 19.30 ft on 01-30-1994 33. 17.50 ft on 05-02-1983 34. 18.80 ft on 06-10-1980 35. 21.18 ft on 09-14-1979 36. 17.75 ft on 05-24-1968 37. 27.30 ft on 01-22-1959 38. 20.90 ft on 03-06-1945 39. 20.10 ft on 04-20-1940 40. 19.55 ft on 01-22-1937 41. 30.50 ft on 03-27-1913 
Alert Hamilton County and Smart 911Hamilton County EMHSA encourages residents to have multiple ways of receiving alerts and warnings. Alert Hamilton County (Alert HC) is a mass notification system used to notify residents about emergencies and other important information throughout Hamilton County. When registering for Alert HC, users can also create a Smart911 profile, allowing first responders to have quicker access to important information in case of an emergency.
Sign up for alerts: www.Smart911.com
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Public Input Wanted: OKI’s draft transportation improvement program
Loveland, Ohio – The Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments (OKI) is a metropolitan planning organization that works with over 100 regional jurisdictions, including Loveland.
OKI is required to prepare a transportation improvement program (TIP) listing all federally funded and other regionally significant transportation projects in the their planning area. OKI updates the TIP every two years, with each spanning four years.
A new TIP is being published and OKI is accepting public comment from March 10 to April 10, 2025 via email to RFields@oki.org.
There is also a public meeting on April 1, 2025, 4 p.m. at OKI’s Office, 720 E. Pete Rose Way, Suite 420, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 or online.
The new TIP will be presented to the OKI Board of Directors for approval at their April 10, 2025 meeting and will then be entered in the Kentucky and Ohio Statewide TIPs.
Questions? Contact Andy Reser.
[pdf-embedder url=”https://lovelandmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Draft-OKI-TIP.pdf” title=”Draft OKI TIP”]
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Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana (OKI) is a Council of Governments (COG) and Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) that works with over 100 regional jurisdictions, governments, and businesses to create an effective regional transportation plan by coordinating and approving federal funding for all surface transportation projects in the eight county region. OKI also works with local jurisdictions on regional planning, air quality, water quality, environmental initiatives and more.
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Cincinnati’s bid for Sundance Film Festival rejected
Cincinnati’s bid to become the new home to the festival rejected in favor of Boulder, Colorado.
A Press Release from the Sundance Institute
Boulder’s Vibrant Community of Artists, Enthusiastic Audiences, and Breathtaking Rocky Mountains Will Provide the Setting for the Future of Independent Film
After a thoughtful and thorough process to identify the future location of the Sundance Film Festival, today the nonprofit Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees is proud to announce that Boulder, Colorado, will become the Festival’s home beginning in 2027.Boulder offers small-town charm with an engaged community, distinctive natural beauty, and a vibrant arts scene, making it the ideal location for the Festival to grow. The Sundance Film Festival is the largest artist program of the nonprofit Sundance Institute. Its Artist Programs cultivate a vibrant ecosystem, supporting artists and connecting their work with audiences. The Festival stands as the pre-eminent gathering of original storytellers and audiences seeking new voices, fresh perspectives, and a celebration of independent film and storytelling.
“This decision was informed by a detailed evaluation of the key components essential to creating our Festival. During the process, it became clear that Boulder is the ideal location in which to build our Festival’s future, marking a key strategic step in its natural evolution,” said Ebs Burnough, Sundance Institute Board Chair. “We have a profound appreciation for the finalist cities and their communities — including Boulder, Colorado, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Salt Lake City, Utah — who presented overwhelmingly strong proposals and dedicated their time, passion, and commitment every step of the way. We have deep respect and gratitude to these communities for their hard work and partnership throughout the past year. Additionally, we sincerely value the steadfast support from our staff and board as we have ventured on this exploration together.”
“The Sundance Film Festival is a catalyst for innovation, creative expression, and the discovery of groundbreaking independent films that inspire and shape the future of storytelling. This process provided the opportunity to imagine how we design the Festival while staying true to our programming and mission. We extend our appreciation to the staff, artists, partners, volunteers, and audiences who have and continue to support that mission,” said Amanda Kelso, Sundance Institute Acting CEO. “Boulder is an art town, tech town, mountain town, and college town. It is a place where the Festival can build and flourish. This is the beginning of a bold, new journey as we invite everyone to be part of our community and to be entertained and inspired. We can’t imagine a better fit than Boulder.”
Together with the Boulder host committee, the Institute envisions the heart of the Festival centered in downtown Boulder utilizing a wide array of theaters and venues, and incorporating spaces around the Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian-only street. Nearby spaces will offer dedicated locations for our community to gather, including select spots on the University of Colorado (CU) Boulder campus. The majestic Rocky Mountains will frame the horizon for festival goers. The Festival will work with the host committee to enhance infrastructure and accommodation options, ensuring that attendees can gather and celebrate independent storytelling in an affordable and sustainable way — key to allowing independent films to shine and maintaining access for our community.
Boulder’s storied and vibrant community of audiences, artists, and filmmakers allows the Sundance Institute to lay the foundation for a strong future for the Sundance Film Festival. Robert Redford founded the nonprofit Institute with a commitment to championing the creation of unique work by storytellers, with the Festival consistently offering a space for artists to share their stories with the world and audiences to discover them. This evolution will preserve the experience that attendees and the global independent film community recognizes and values.
“I founded the Sundance Institute with a commitment to discovering and developing independent artists, with the Sundance Film Festival serving as the platform for stories to help expand audiences and broaden the landscape,” said Robert Redford, Sundance Institute President and Founder. “That mission remains even more critical today and will continue to be our core principle. Words cannot express the sincere gratitude I have for Park City, the state of Utah, and all those in the Utah community that have helped to build the organization. What we’ve created is remarkably special and defining. As change is inevitable, we must always evolve and grow, which has been at the core of our survival. This move will ensure that the Festival continues its work of risk taking, supporting innovative storytellers, fostering independence, and entertaining and enlightening audiences. I am grateful to the Boulder community for its support, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for the Festival there.”
Boulder’s welcoming environment aligns with the ethos the Sundance Film Festival developed in Park City — growing with a community rooted in independent thought, artistic exploration, and social impact. The city’s convergence of arts, technology, music, food, entrepreneurship, and education presents unique and exciting programming opportunities for future iterations of the Festival.
“The Sundance Film Festival’s move to Boulder, Colorado in 2027 preserves and builds on its four decade journey. Together we continue to create a Festival that acts as a vibrant space for independent films and filmmakers to shine. A place where each January, a community of artists, industry, and audiences can gather to discover what’s new in global storytelling,” said Eugene Hernandez, Sundance Film Festival Director and Head of Public Programming. “This city is ready to embrace emerging and established global storytellers, our staff and volunteers, and, of course, global audiences. Whether you are a Sundance Film Festival regular, or someone who has dreamed of experiencing the Festival in person, we invite you to join us in January 2026 in Utah and then come along to nearby Colorado in 2027.”
“Colorado is thrilled to welcome the Sundance Film Festival to its new home in Boulder starting in 2027,” said Governor Jared Polis. “Here in our state we celebrate the arts and film industry as a key economic driver, job creator, and important contributor to our thriving culture. Now, with the addition of the iconic Sundance Film Festival, we can expect even more jobs, a huge benefit for our small businesses including stores and restaurants. Thank you to the Sundance Institute and all of the partners like the City of Boulder, Visit Boulder, the Boulder Chamber of Commerce, and I also want to thank the bipartisan legislators and leadership who have worked tirelessly to make this possible.”
“We are deeply honored that Boulder has been selected to host the Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027,” said Charlene Hoffman, Visit Boulder CEO. “Creativity, innovation, and expression are at the heart of what makes Boulder special, and we’re ready to welcome storytellers and cinema lovers from around the world. Our walkable downtown, iconic venues, and beautiful landscape at the base of the Rocky Mountains sets the stage for the Sundance Film Festival to flourish in its next chapter. It’s been a remarkable experience getting to share our vibrant community with the Sundance Institute and we eagerly await the Festival’s debut in beautiful Boulder, Colorado with excitement and gratitude.”
The Institute and its Board of Trustees want to thank the Festival’s current home and beating heart for more than 40 years — Park City together with the state of Utah. Park City and Utah will always be a formative part of the Festival. The 2026 Sundance Film Festival will take place in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, from January 22 to February 1, 2026, with acknowledgment and profound respect for the roots that the community has laid in the Wasatch Mountains. Park City and Utah’s independent spirit continues to inspire the Institute, and the beloved communities are invited to celebrate the Festival in Utah.
Sundance Institute’s Board also would like to acknowledge and thank the finalist cities of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Salt Lake City, Utah, for their tremendously comprehensive and compelling proposals, as well as their commitment to collaboration and discussion during this exploration. Each of the cities presented dynamic and engaging visions for encapsulating opportunities to imagine and continue to invigorate the Festival both for artists and audiences. After deep analysis and extensive spirited and constructive conversations, the Board of Trustees enthusiastically supports making Boulder the place to experience the incomparable Sundance Film Festival in the years ahead.
The Sundance Institute’s year-long process included a request for information (RFI) on locations, request for proposals (RFPs), meetings and site visits of finalists. The process included a comprehensive evaluation of finalists’ infrastructure, ethos and equity values, event capabilities, and how each finalist could sustainably serve and support the Festival’s ever-growing community of independent artists and audiences. Each finalist demonstrated how they would welcome and continue to foster the diverse Festival community and culture of independent creativity.
Sundance Institute, which is based in Utah, was founded by Robert Redford in 1981 to support, sustain, and discover independent filmmakers and storytellers. The Sundance Film Festival, which celebrated its 41st edition earlier this year, serves as an essential space to introduce unique voices and transform careers. Each January, audiences at the Festival are the first to discover and celebrate bold, creative visions, and exciting emerging independent talent.
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Statements from Boulder, Colorado Host Committee:
“Colorado has long been known for its culture of collaboration, and that spirit was on full display throughout the proposal process,” said Eve Lieberman, OEDIT Executive Director. “Recognizing the opportunity to strengthen our creative economy, create new jobs for Coloradans, boost tourism and elevate Colorado on the global stage, a diverse group of partners came together to showcase Colorado as the ideal next home for the Sundance Film Festival. The relationships we have built and strengthened, especially our partnership with the Sundance Institute, will ensure the Festival’s next act is a tremendous success.”
“We are thrilled to welcome the Sundance Film Festival to Colorado and work with our new partners at the Sundance Institute to ensure a smooth transition to Boulder in 2027,” said Donald Zuckerman, Colorado Film Commissioner. “We can think of no better partner to elevate filmmaking and storytelling in Colorado and look forward to celebrating the many creative milestones that lie ahead.”
Sundance Institute
As a champion and curator of independent stories, the nonprofit Sundance Institute provides and preserves the space for artists across storytelling media to create and thrive. Founded in 1981 by Robert Redford, the Institute’s signature labs, granting, and mentorship programs, dedicated to developing new work, take place throughout the year in the U.S. and internationally. Sundance Collab, a digital community platform, brings a global cohort of working artists together to learn from Sundance advisors and connect with each other in a creative space, developing and sharing works in progress. The Sundance Film Festival and other public programs connect audiences and artists to ignite new ideas, discover original voices, and build a community dedicated to independent storytelling. Through the Sundance Institute artist programs, we have supported such projects as Beasts of the Southern Wild, The Big Sick, Bottle Rocket, Boys Don’t Cry, Boys State, Call Me by Your Name, Clemency, CODA, Dìdi (弟弟), Drunktown’s Finest, The Farewell, Fire of Love, Flee, Fruitvale Station, Half Nelson, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Hereditary, The Infiltrators, The Last Black Man in San Francisco, Little Woods, Love & Basketball, Me and You and Everyone We Know, Mudbound, Nanny, One Child Nation, Pariah, Raising Victor Vargas, Requiem for a Dream, Reservoir Dogs, RBG, Sin Nombre, Sorry to Bother You, Strong Island, Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), Swiss Army Man, A Thousand and One, Top of the Lake, Won’t You Be My Neighbor?, and Zola. Through year-round artist programs, the Institute also nurtured the early careers of such artists as Paul Thomas Anderson, Wes Anderson, Gregg Araki, Darren Aronofsky, Lisa Cholodenko, Ryan Coogler, Nia DaCosta, The Daniels, David Gordon Green, Miranda July, James Mangold, John Cameron Mitchell, Kimberly Peirce, Boots Riley, Ira Sachs, Quentin Tarantino, Taika Waititi, Lulu Wang, and Chloé Zhao. Support Sundance Institute in our commitment to uplifting bold artists and powerful storytelling globally by making a donation at sundance.org/donate. Join Sundance Institute on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, and Bluesky.
Sundance Film Festival®
The Sundance Film Festival, a program of the nonprofit Sundance Institute, is the pre-eminent gathering of original storytellers and audiences seeking new voices and fresh perspectives. Since 1985, hundreds of films launched at the Festival have gone on to gain critical acclaim and reach new audiences worldwide. The Festival has introduced some of the most groundbreaking films and episodic works of the past three decades, including Dìdi (弟弟), A Real Pain, Daughters, Thelma, Will & Harper, Past Lives, 20 Days in Mariupol, The Eternal Memory, Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie, A Thousand and One, Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields, Rye Lane, Navalny, Fire of Love, Flee, CODA, Passing, Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), Minari, Clemency, Never Rarely Sometimes Always, Zola, O.J.: Made in America, On the Record, Boys State, The Farewell, Honeyland, One Child Nation, The Souvenir, The Infiltrators, Sorry to Bother You, Top of the Lake, Won’t You Be My Neighbor?, Hereditary, Call Me by Your Name, Get Out, The Big Sick, Mudbound, Fruitvale Station, Whiplash, Brooklyn, Precious, The Cove, Little Miss Sunshine, An Inconvenient Truth, Napoleon Dynamite, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Reservoir Dogs, and sex, lies, and videotape. The program consists of fiction and nonfiction features and short films, series and episodic content, innovative storytelling, and performances, as well as conversations, and other events. The Festival takes place in person in Utah, as well as online, connecting audiences to bold new artists and films. Be a part of the Festival at festival.sundance.org and follow the Festival on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, and Bluesky.