Creative Excellence Grant

The Trilith Institute Creative Excellence Grant (TICEG) is a program designed for higher education film students (undergraduate and graduate level) currently enrolled at universities or colleges with a formal working relationship with the Trilith Institute. 

The primary goal of the TICEG is to prepare students for the working environment they will encounter in the Film and Entertainment industry while simultaneously elevating the overall professionalism and quality of their productions. Eligible students can apply for a wide range of benefits from the Trilith Institute, which may include any of the following: 

Potential Grant Benefits:

• Tiered financial grant, based on project need
• Potential for cross university or school collaborations
• Trilith Institute will act as “Supervising Executives” advising on all aspects of project creation (development, pre/production/post, design/animation)
• Access to the Writers’ Room of Georgia, at no charge
• Partner students with one or more mentors to discuss their project, career advancement, and long-term goals
• (2) Free workshop training sessions through the Trilith Institute academic curriculum
• Access to all Trilith Institute applicable partnerships, as available and per vendor and Institute discretion, including but not limited to:
  • Grip and electrical gear from MBS
  • Professional talent through the Alliance Theatre
  • Additional partnerships for camera, post-production, and VFX
• Assistance with identifying industry professional crew and/or advisors
• Discounted meal/crafty options (Chick-fil-A meal cards, The Studio Cafe discount)
• Institute experience and expertise

For more information and instructions on how to apply, email creative.excellence@trilithinstitute.org

Past Recipients

 

Tenderloin – Andrew Sloth

Logline: Tenderloin the Pig is a has-been comedian determined to make a comeback. Opening for Senator Buck Barley’s re-election announcement seems like a surefire way to win the public’s love, but disaster strikes when Buck dies mid-performance. Framed for murder, Tenderloin must now fight to clear his name.

Writer/Director: Andrew Sloth is a young screenwriter and director based in Atlanta. Born and raised in rural Iowa, Andrew has uprooted himself to pursue a Master’s degree in Film, Television and Digital Media from the University of Georgia. He has since firmly planted himself within the Atlanta film industry as a unique voice whose films are offbeat, sentimental, and absurdly funny.  Thanks to his background in improv and his BA in Psychology, Andrew’s comedy has developed a distinct and irreverent style that blends familiar and nostalgic characters with outrageous situations. Beyond his own work, Andrew has contributed to several other shorts and features around the state, and he hopes to continue his trajectory and career path so he can continue to entertain audiences for years to come.

Festival Circuit: Tenderloin premiered at the SIMPLY WEIRD FILM FESTIVAL and won the Audience Favorite vote, taking home the coveted WEIRD WEENIE TROPHY.

 

Beryllium – Andres

Pyramids – Emani Saucier & Chelsea Wilson

Producer: Chelsea Wilson is a 2nd year MFA Film, Television, and Digital Media student at the University of Georgia. She is from Indianapolis, Indiana with a degree in Film and Video Production from Purdue University. She has studied filmmaking for over 4 years and has extensive experience working in producing and development in the film industry. Chelsea is interested in pursuing a career in producing and screenwriting for scripted and unscripted content. She is passionate about exploring unique stories that showcase diverse cultures and human experiences. Chelsea has strong leadership and critical thinking skills that have allowed her to navigate her career as a producer, director, and writer. She brings a comprehensive skill set to the table that will support the creative development and execution of the short film, Pyramids. She is focused on expanding her experience and network in Georgia’s film industry.

Writer/Director: Emani Saucier is a dynamic Film Director and the visionary Owner of Saucier Films, a prominent production company based in Atlanta. With an impressive portfolio that includes projects for esteemed clients such as Google and Adobe, Emani excels at capturing powerful stories on camera. Beyond his directorial prowess, he passionately mentors aspiring storytellers, empowering them to amplify their voices.

Driven by a steadfast mission to illuminate the lives and experiences of marginalized individuals, Emani channels his exceptional skillset to guide and uplift the next generation of BIPOC storytellers. Through his work, he is dedicated to promoting authentic and accurate portrayals of people of color on screen, fostering meaningful representation that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Emani’s journey is marked by academic excellence, having earned his degree from the renowned Morehouse College. Currently pursuing an MFA at The University of Georgia, he continues to expand his creative horizons and refine his artistic vision. In addition, Emani proudly serves as a U.S. Army Officer, embodying the values of discipline, integrity, and leadership in all aspects of his life.

With an unwavering commitment to his craft, Emani Rashad is an influential force in the world of filmmaking, utilizing his talents and experiences to forge a path of progress and empowerment for underrepresented communities.