Lauren Kushner is an independent producer and the co-founder of Early Bird Films which supports filmmakers, nonprofits, and for-profit film entities to elevate exceptional emerging voices. Before launching Early Bird, Lauren was the Director of Artist Development at SFFILM where she oversaw the highly-lauded Artist Development program with an emphasis on strategic planning, significant growth, and furthering filmmaker programs including grants, fellowships, and a robust residency program. Prior to joining SFFILM, Lauren spent six years at Participant Media in the feature documentary and film marketing divisions.