The Climate HQ Storytellers’ Lab provides support and mentorship for students telling their stories about climate and ecological justice.
We are seeking applicants to produce films or audio/visual projects of up to 10 minutes in length with a focus on climate, environmental, and/or social justice topics. In particular, we are looking for projects that take an interdisciplinary approach to storytelling. (that is, stories that draw from more than one branch of knowledge. For example: a scientific look at an issue but told through a justice lens; an animation about a frontline community issue, a profile on a local person or environmental organization that includes scientific and/or racial justice-related perspectives, etc.)
All current students—regardless of production experience—are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage student teams and/or groups, especially those that represent different schools and departments on campus.
Storytellers’ Lab Fellows will receive a $750 Stipend for Spring 2026
Fellows will be required to attend three Storytellers' Lab workshops: One at the end of the Fall '25 semester and two in the Spring '26 semester.
Fellows will receive individualized storytelling & production development support from the Storytellers' Lab mentors.
Selected Fellows and their projects will be featured at the 4th Annual Climate HQ FilmFest in April 2026 alongside professional films.
Fellows may also be invited to participate in a panel discussion and audience Q&A on stage with the other filmmakers.
Projects must be currently in production or will be produced during the Spring 2026 semester. We will consider all genres (fiction, documentary, experimental, poetic, essay, animation etc). We will also consider audio projects if you plan to provide simple visuals (graphics, pictures, etc.)
Applications for the Climate HQ Storytellers’ Lab Fellowship are due November 20, 2025 by midnight.
Selections will be made and awardees notified by December 3, 2025.
For more details, submission requirements, and to apply, please visit the submission page HERE.
Questions about the application can be sent to sustain@sfsu.edu.