The Entertainment Industry College Outreach Program has taken a significant step forward by partnering with Amazon MGM Studios. This collaboration aims to create a more diverse and inclusive talent pipeline, bringing together HBCU students and other under-represented groups. The initiative holds great promise for the future of the entertainment industry, as it seeks to amplify the voices of the next generation of leaders.

Amanda Baker-Lane's Perspective

Amanda Baker-Lane, the global head of DEIA for Amazon MGM Studios and Prime Video, emphasizes the importance of building a home for talent. She states, "We are committed to nurturing creativity, inclusive storytelling, and innovation both on screen and off. Through our partnership with EICOP, we will continue to amplify the voices of the next generation of entertainment industry leaders." This partnership is seen as a crucial step in achieving greater diversity and equality within the industry.

How the Partnership Works

The partnership makes it possible for EICOP to continue its initiative of bringing diverse perspectives to the table. Starting in the summer of 2025, student leaders and recent college grads will be offered paid internships across all aspects of Amazon MGM Studios' business. This provides them with valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to contribute to the creative process. By engaging with industry leaders, attending speaker series and events, and building networking skills, these interns will gain exposure and expand their knowledge of the entertainment industry.

Stacy Milner's View

Stacy Milner, president and CEO of the Entertainment Industry College Outreach Program, is excited about the partnership. She says, "We are thrilled to have Amazon MGM Studios join us in this important pipeline development initiative. Together, we will continue to open doors and create access for HBCU Scholars and other underrepresented talent. This will enable them to bring their skills, experiences, and perspectives to the workforce of today's global creative industry." The program's mission of eliminating systemic barriers is further strengthened by this collaboration.

Program Benefits

Members of the student cohort have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders and gain exposure to a wide range of professional development opportunities. They can attend speaker series and events, build networking skills, and visit studio lots to go behind-the-scenes of top entertainment organizations. This hands-on experience allows them to expand their knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of the entertainment industry. EICOP's program provides housing and paid internships, ensuring that participants have the necessary resources to succeed.

Applicant Pool and Future

The program has vetted an applicant pool of over 400 scholars for its summer 2025 program. This indicates the high demand and interest in such initiatives. With the support of Amazon MGM Studios and other industry partners, EICOP is poised to make a significant impact on the entertainment industry. By providing opportunities for underrepresented talent, the program is helping to shape a more inclusive and diverse future for the industry.