Competition United States

2026 First Look Project

Run by Script Pipeline

Unlike Script Pipeline's main contests, this one scores concept and market appeal next to the writing, so it rewards high-concept features and pilots. Scripts compete in six genre or length categories, and each category has its own USD 2,500 winner. The extended tier runs to October 30, 2026, with winners out December 15.

Extended deadline Oct 30, 2026 (closes in 10 days)

Dates

DeadlineDateFee
Special entryFeb 5, 2026 passedUSD 35
Pre-registerApr 10, 2026 passedUSD 45
EarlyJun 25, 2026 passedUSD 55
RegularSep 30, 2026 passedUSD 60
LateOct 15, 2026 passedUSD 65
ExtendedOct 30, 2026USD 70

Deadlines are as the organizer states them. Check the time zone on the official page.

At a glance

Entry fee
From $70Extended tier, the only one left
Formats
Feature, TV pilot
Language
English
Where
United States (enter online)
Who can apply
Feature scripts and original pilots in any genre, animation included. A script that is under option or a shopping agreement on the day of entry is not eligible; a deal signed after entry is fine. Each script goes in one category only.
Prizes
Six category winners each get USD 2,500: four film categories (Action and Sci-Fi, Comedy, Drama, Horror and Thriller) and two TV categories (hour and half-hour).

What to send

Length
Pilots roughly 30 to 60 pages; features full length, no count given
Also asked for
Genre hybrids may pick any fitting category

Need your pages in standard screenplay format first? The free screenplay formatter lays them out and saves a PDF.

What it gives besides money

Winners are circulated to producers, managers and agents over the long term, get one-on-one development help and mentoring from Pipeline executives, and are invited to private Symposium events.

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