The Story Grant

Every three months, we award a Story Grant to an individual, community group, or non-profit organisation with a story worth sharing.

The grant provides creative support to develop a short film, animated piece, or digital story that might otherwise never be made.

We are particularly interested in stories from people and communities who face barriers to being heard, including disabled, neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, and grassroots community voices.

One story. Every three months.

Rules

Every three months, we donate our time and creative expertise to help one person or organisation bring an important story to life.

The selected recipient will receive support to create a short film, animated piece, or digital storytelling project.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are welcome from:

  • Individuals

  • Community groups

  • Registered charities

  • Non-profit organisations

  • Social enterprises

  • Grassroots initiatives

Applicants must be based in Aotearoa New Zealand.

What the Grant Includes

The Story Grant may include:

  • Creative consultation

  • Story development

  • Script or concept support

  • Video production

  • Animation or motion design

  • Editing and post-production

The exact scope will be determined collaboratively with the successful applicant.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

  • Story strength

  • Potential impact

  • Creative potential

  • Feasibility within available resources

  • Alignment with the values of the Story Grant

What We’re Looking For

We are interested in stories that:

  • Inspire understanding or connection

  • Amplify underrepresented voices

  • Explore community, identity, resilience, creativity, or social issues

  • Have the potential to create positive impact

  • Would be difficult to produce without support

What We Cannot Fund

We are unable to support:

  • Political campaign advertising

  • Commercial product promotion

  • Hate speech or discriminatory content

  • Projects requiring significant travel or large production budgets

  • Projects with deadlines that exceed our available capacity

Important Information

  • One Story Grant is awarded every three months.

  • Not all applications can be funded.

  • Applicants may reapply in future rounds.

  • Successful applicants retain ownership of their story and final project.

  • What a Mess Media Lab may showcase the completed work for promotional and portfolio purposes only with permission.

Application Form

Because all stories deserve to be heard.