Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw’s Hearthland Foundation Donates $3M to Sundance Institute (Exclusive)

Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw’s Hearthland Foundation has pledged $3 million over several years to Sundance Institute, backing its feature film programme, the return of its directors lab to Sundance Mountain Resort, and more fellowships and unrestricted grants for independent artists. The gift comes as independent film faces financial and industry pressures, and will help Sundance support filmmakers and bring original stories to audiences.

The contribution is among the largest in the Institute’s history, following a $4 million endowment to its Indigenous Program in 2023. Sundance leaders said the funding will strengthen support for artists throughout the creative process and help sustain the Institute’s work; the gift followed discussions between its artist programmes team and Hearthland Foundation.