Sundance Institute Receives $3 Million Gift: Spielberg-Co-Founded Foundation Backs Directors Lab Return
The nonprofit Sundance Institute announced on October 22, 2026, that it has received a $3 million gift from The Hearthland Foundation, founded by Kate Capshaw and Steven Spielberg with the mission of building a more just, equitable and connected country. The Institute said the multiyear commitment is one of the largest contributions in its history.
The funding will bolster the Institute's Feature Film Program, support the return of its renowned Directors Lab to Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah, and increase fellowships and direct, unrestricted grants to independent artists.
David Linde, CEO of Sundance Institute, called the gift a profound vote of confidence in independent artists and in the Institute's future as it carries forward founder Robert Redford's vision. Rachel Levin, President of Philanthropy at The Hearthland Foundation, said Kate and Steven are proud to help carry the Directors Lab legacy forward and hope the gift encourages others to support Sundance's mission.
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：圣丹斯电影节期间的 Park City 主街与 Egyptian Theatre（2024 年资料图）。照片：Fuzheado，CC0，经 Wikimedia Commons。 / Main Street and the Egyptian Theatre in Park City during the Sundance Film Festival (2024 file photo). Photo: Fuzheado, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.
