LA-based nonprofit Exceptional Minds, which runs an academy that trains young neurodivergent adults for careers in VFX and animation, has received a US$1-million, multi-year grant from The Walt Disney Company.

It will go towards developing the academy’s curriculum, which teaches both technical and professional skills needed for post-production jobs in the entertainment business, according to a release. While the technical component covers areas like animation, CG-gaming and VFX, the professional readiness training includes portfolio creation, interviewing and career planning.

In addition to its academy, Exceptional Minds runs a studio (which employs academy graduates) and a post-graduate program (for further training in specialized areas). Graduates of the academy have worked for companies like Marvel Studios and Nickelodeon.

The new grant stems from Disney’s Future Storytellers initiative⁠, which supports skill-building and career opportunities for underrepresented talent in media and entertainment. It launched a scholarship program for Black creatives last year, and has contributed funding to Girls Who Code.

Companies like Netflix, Cartoon Network and Sesame Workshop have worked with Exceptional Minds in the past to provide mentorship programs for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Over the past couple of years, studios and toy companies have been focused on improving neurodiverse representation in their ranks and content by partnering with nonprofits. Last month, for instance, Mattel TV introduced brake car Bruno to its cast for Thomas & Friends. The show’s first-ever character with autism was developed in collaboration with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN).

Featured image: David Siegel (right), executive director and CEO of Exceptional Minds and Christine Cadena, VP of diversity and inclusion at The Walt Disney Company.