Grants & Gigs: Introducing The Shortlist

Hey Shero Squad, ✨

Today’s Shortlist is all about opportunities that don’t have time to wait. Out here in the wild, I not only get these random opportunities in my inbox, but the algorithm also seems to drop them into my social feeds everywhere I go.

I never want you to miss them, so that’s exactly why we created the Shortlist—a midweek roundup of unique opportunities with tight deadlines that are worth jumping on before they disappear.

This week’s edition includes a casting call for a major network television series seeking young talent, an opportunity from a major Hollywood talent agency looking for fresh manuscripts from authors, a gig with an acting studio, and a grant with a fast-approaching deadline for creatives who are ready to get their art out into the world.

I’ve been seeing more and more of these manuscript calls from major entertainment companies lately, and it tells me one thing: they’re actively searching for new voices and original stories. That’s great news for creators who have been waiting for an opening.

If you know someone who would love these kinds of opportunities, send them our way. Shero’s Geeky Grants & Gigs has quietly become a bit of an underground Hollywood secret. Of course, we also keep landing in Substack’s Top 30 Film & TV publications, so I’m not sure how much longer we’ll stay underground.

Good luck applying! And as always, if you land a grant, gig, internship, or opportunity because of this newsletter, let us know so we can celebrate with you. We absolutely love doing the happy dance for our community.

See you on Friday!

xoxo,

Shequeta

🎯 For: Young and emerging artists working in any creative medium, including photography, film, animation, illustration, performance, sculpture, fashion, or experimental work.
💰 Amount: $500 USD each for two artists selected monthly.
📅 Deadline: August 18, 2026
🎬 Details: Lantern Beverages is awarding two artist grants each month to support the creation of an original piece featuring Lantern Matcha Soda. Artists of all experience levels are encouraged to apply—no follower count or professional background is required. Applications are judged on the strength of the proposed idea. Submit your portfolio along with a brief description of your project by email.
🔗 Apply HERE: info@lanternbeverages.com

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