The Writers Lab has opened submissions for their 2026 International Lab. In their 12th year of championing women and non-binary screenwriters over 40, TWL is excited to welcome a new group of writers. We encourage all eligible candidates to apply!
The Writers Lab is the only program in the world devoted exclusively to script and career development for women and nonbinary writers 40+. We honor the fact that gender is personal and specific and seek to create an inclusive and supportive community.
The Lab was produced by co-founders Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon with New York Women in Film & Television from 2015 to 2024..
Submissions are now open for The Writers Lab 2026 International Lab. Sixteen projects will be selected for deep project development, one-on-one mentorship, and career support with industry-leading writers and producers. Features and pilots (1-hour or half-hour) in English are welcome. U.S. and international applicants encouraged. Previous TWL participants have gone on to secure representation, win major fellowships, and see their scripts produced.
At TWL Lab Intensives, writers are challenged to bring fresh eyes to their selected projects and undergo deep project development work in one-on-one and group sessions, with revision guidance and career support from the experienced TWL team and some of the industry’s best writers and producers. The Lab aims to build skills, confidence and community, and to prepare writers for collaborative work and market demands. Shared meals, group activities and panel discussions provide opportunities for broader conversations and creative exchange.
TWL is offering three free virtual workshops to our community, where you will learn more about The Writers Lab and strengthen your submission. The three workshops will be in February and March, ALL on Zoom. Join to meet the team, learn about TWL, and get tips about what makes a script stand out. With Q&A.
Workshop One: Free and open to all.
Wednesday, Feb 11, 3pm ET
Recorded and shared on our website. Submissions open February 12.
Join us to meet the team, learn about TWL, and get tips about what makes a script stand out. With Q&A.
Workshop Two: Open to Early Bird Applicants
Thursday Feb 26, 3pm ET
Join us for tips about what makes a script stand out. With Q&A.
After submitting as an Early Bird applicant, you will be able to update your script one time based on learnings from the workshop! Deadline to UPDATE your script: Tuesday, March 12.
Workshop Three: Open to Regular Applicants
Thursday March 19, 3pm ET
Join for tips about what makes a script stand out. With Q&A.
After submitting as a Regular applicant, you will be able to update your script one time based on learnings from the workshop! Deadline to UPDATE your script: Thursday, April 9.
