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Scriptwriters Network (SWN) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1986 by writers, for writers. SWN is dedicated to educating, connecting, and empowering storytellers through professional development, creative community, industry education, competitions, masterclasses, and networking opportunities. For nearly four decades, SWN has supported writers across film, television, streaming, theater, animation, novels, short stories, video games, and emerging storytelling formats.
History
Founded in 1986 by writers who believed education, collaboration, and community strengthen the creative journey, Scriptwriters Network has grown into one of the longest-serving nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting storytellers. Built and sustained by passionate volunteers, SWN has spent nearly four decades providing educational programs, industry outreach, screenplay competitions, networking events, mentorship, and professional resources that have helped thousands of writers pursue their creative and professional goals. Today, the organization continues to evolve by embracing new technologies, expanding educational opportunities, and supporting storytellers across traditional and emerging media.
Mission
To educate, inspire, connect, and empower storytellers by providing the knowledge, resources, professional development, industry access, and creative community they need to strengthen their craft, advance their careers, and bring meaningful stories to life.
Programs
Scriptwriters Network offers educational programs, screenplay competitions, mentorship opportunities, masterclasses, speaker events, and industry-focused resources including the Hollywood Outreach Program (HOP), Television Outreach Program (TOP), High Concept Screenplay Program (HCSP), Short Story Film Program (SSFP), and writer development programs designed to educate, connect, and support storytellers.
Contact
Reach the SWN team at info@scriptwritersnetwork.org.
Programs
Programs run by Scriptwriters Network — many available to WritersQuest members.
The Hollywood Outreach Program (HOP) is Scriptwriters Network’s feature screenplay development and outreach program designed to help writers strengthen their storytelling skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the craft and business of screenwriting. The program focuses on original feature-length screenplays and provides writers with educational resources, professional insights, and opportunities to develop their work.
Learn moreThe Television Outreach Program (TOP) is Scriptwriters Network’s television writing development program designed to help writers strengthen their understanding of episodic storytelling, television structure, and the craft and business of writing for television. The program supports writers in developing their television projects while gaining educational insights into the professional landscape.
Learn moreThe High Concept Screenplay Program (HCSP) is Scriptwriters Network’s feature screenplay program focused on the development of compelling story concepts and strong storytelling foundations. The program encourages writers to explore originality, character, structure, and the elements that make a screenplay engaging for audiences.
Learn moreThe Short Story Film Program (SSFP) is Scriptwriters Network’s short-form storytelling program designed to support writers developing original short film projects. The program encourages creative storytelling, concise narrative development, and exploration of the craft involved in creating impactful short-form stories.
Learn moreThe Masterclass — The Art, Craft & Business of Scriptwriting provides writers with a comprehensive educational experience covering storytelling craft, script development, and the professional side of writing. Through guided instruction, discussion, and practical application, writers strengthen their skills and gain a deeper understanding of the writing process.
Learn moreMasterclass — From Page to Pitch: The Complete Writer’s Lab guides writers through the process of developing their ideas, strengthening their projects, and preparing to communicate their stories professionally. Writers explore story development, presentation skills, and the craft and business considerations involved in moving a project from concept to pitch.
Learn moreThe Script Analysis Readers Class teaches writers and aspiring readers how to evaluate scripts through professional coverage and constructive feedback techniques. Participants learn story analysis, character development, structure, and how to provide thoughtful, specific, and helpful notes while respecting the writer’s creative vision.
Learn morePitch Boot Camp helps writers develop the skills needed to effectively communicate their stories, concepts, and creative vision. Through education and practice, participants learn how to refine their pitches, understand audience expectations, and present their projects with confidence.
Learn moreThe Creative Writing Challenge Part 1 encourages writers to build consistent writing habits, explore creativity, and strengthen their storytelling skills through structured writing exercises and creative development activities.
Learn moreThe Creative Writing Challenge Part 2 continues the creative development process by encouraging writers to expand their skills, deepen their storytelling practice, and continue building confidence through structured writing activities.
Learn moreThe 2-Day Writing Challenge provides writers with a focused opportunity to dedicate time to their creative work, develop writing momentum, and practice completing creative goals within a structured timeframe.
Learn moreScriptwriters Network Speaker Events connect writers with experienced professionals who share knowledge, insights, and perspectives about storytelling, the entertainment industry, and the professional journey of writers.
Learn moreScriptwriters Network Seminar Events provide focused educational opportunities covering topics related to writing craft, industry knowledge, career development, and the evolving landscape of storytelling.
Learn moreThe Social Virtual Networking Event provides writers with an opportunity to connect, share experiences, build relationships, and engage with a creative community of storytellers. These events encourage collaboration, conversation, and professional networking.
Learn moreCelebrating 40 years of Scriptwriters Network — a nonprofit organization founded by writers, for writers, dedicated to educating, connecting, and advancing storytellers. The 40th Anniversary Campaign honors the writers, mentors, speakers, volunteers, partners, program participants, winners, and creative community members who have helped shape Scriptwriters Network since 1986 while looking ahead to the future of storytelling.
Learn moreMembership supports Scriptwriters Network programs and gives you access to the modern creative ecosystem of WritersQuest.
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