The Inkubator is a 6-day international writing residency for women and non-binary writers and directors, focused on early script development.
Our tutors help the participants develop their stories while they’re still at the fragile, early stage, guiding them through the process of discovering their characters, plots and themes: from an idea to a fleshed-out treatment.

The Lab is addressed to women and non-binary screenwriters and writer-directors working on a fiction feature film or TV series, currently at the early stage of treatment.
Applicants should have a proven track record, i.e. short films, documentaries or features that traveled to international film festivals or that have been distributed in theatres or online. There are no restrictions on genre or subject matter.

Since English is the working language of the lab, good knowledge of written and spoken English is required.

• The opportunity to work intensively on your story idea and treatment with the support and mentorship of established professionals during group and one-on-ones sessions;
• An intensive, immersive, communal experience of working in a supportive circle of like-minded female creatives from around the world;
  
  
• Dedicated writing time;
  
  
• Online follow-up session 2 months after the end of the residential Lab;
  
  
• Participation in additional activities: film screenings, case studies and discussions on cinema and storytelling;
  
  
• Being part of a larger international HerArts film community;
  
  
• Pleasures of Southern Italy, including delicious food, beautiful scenery and history.

The Lab is project-based, which means that during the week we focus on helping participants in developing stories & treatments of their feature films or TV series pilots. Each edition we invite 8-10 projects from around the world. The participants work in groups, have one-to-one meetings with mentors and time for individual writing.

Since group discussions are an important part of the Lab, participants must be prepared to read other writers' scripts ahead of the Lab and share feedback on their work.

In the evenings, there are additional activities such as screenings, talks and discussions.

Each day is structured around meals which are a great opportunity to continue conversations started earlier in the day, and to enjoy the fantastic food and drink of Casa Seliano.

Optional activities such as a visit to Paestum Archeological Park or the beach are also possible.

The Inkubator edition of HerArts Film Lab will take place between November 10-15, 2025 (arrival on November 9, departure on November 16).

The Lab is set in the 18th century estate of Azienda Seliano in Paestum, in the beautiful Italian region of Campania, around 80 km south of Naples. The nearest airports are: Salerno-Amalfi Coast and Naples International Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli Capodichino).