The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is marking the 10th anniversary of its Academy Gold Rising internship enhancement program, continuing its mission to help aspiring filmmakers and entertainment professionals build careers in the film industry.
The eight-week summer initiative provides college seniors, recent graduates and early-career professionals with hands-on experience through internships, educational workshops and mentorship opportunities at some of the entertainment industry’s leading companies and organizations.
Since its launch, Gold Rising has become one of the Academy’s signature talent development programs, giving participants access to career-building experiences across filmmaking, production, technology, digital media and entertainment.
“We are excited to celebrate a decade of Academy Gold Rising with an inspiring new class from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives,” said Kim Taylor-Coleman, Academy governor and president of the Academy Foundation Board. “This program provides unparalleled access to industry experiences, mentorship and professional development opportunities.”
The 2026 program officially begins with a two-day orientation before participants embark on internships with major entertainment companies including Disney Entertainment, NBCUniversal, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Lionsgate, STARZ, Monkeypaw Productions and The Black List, among others.
In addition to their internships, participants will take part in exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences at some of Hollywood’s most influential institutions, including the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, the Academy Film Archive, the Margaret Herrick Library, Walt Disney Animation Studios, IMAX, ARRAY, AGBO Studios, Blumhouse and Cosm.
The program also features conversations with Academy members, Oscar nominees and industry executives who share insights into their careers and the evolving entertainment landscape.
Among this year’s featured sessions is a discussion with Focus Features Chairman Peter Kujawski, who will speak about his professional journey, along with a visit to filmmaker Ava DuVernay’s ARRAY creative campus, where participants will learn about storytelling, social impact and narrative change.
Another program highlight explores careers in science and technology through a visit to Cosm, where Academy members and recipients of the 2026 Scientific and Technical Awards will discuss how technological innovation continues to shape filmmaking.
One of Gold Rising’s defining features is its commitment to long-term career development. After completing the summer program, every participant is paired with an Academy member for an eight-month mentorship designed to provide guidance, networking opportunities and professional support as they begin their careers.
Gold Rising is part of the Academy Gold initiative, which also includes programs such as the Student Academy Awards, the Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting and the Gold Fellowship for Women.
As the Academy celebrates a decade of Gold Rising, the organization continues investing in the future of filmmaking by helping emerging talent gain the experience, connections and confidence needed to succeed in one of the world’s most competitive creative industries.