We are seeking applicants who will produce films or audio-visual works of up to 10 minutes in length related to social, ecological, and climate justice issues. We believe these issues intersect with every facet of life and, therefore, will consider varied, diverse, and wide-reaching topics. We will also consider all genres (fiction, documentary, experimental, poetic, essay, animation etc.) of storytelling. (We will consider audio projects if you can plan to provide some form of visuals to accompany your project for screening.)
We encourage projects that take an interdisciplinary approach to storytelling (that is, stories that draw from more than one branch of knowledge/knowing; for example: a "hard" climate science topic told through an Indigenous lens; an animation about a frontline community issue; or a profile on a person or group that blends art, philosophy, and science) and are collaborative in nature.
We also encourage students to use this as an opportunity to develop their thesis work, build on class projects, explore personal passion projects, or to try producing media for the first time in a supportive environment!
Storytellers’ Lab Fellows will receive a $750 stipend for Spring 2027
The 2026/27 Storyteller Fellows will:
- Receive a $750 stipend to support their work;
- Receive individualized and group storytelling & production development support from the Storytellers' Lab mentors during both Fall '26 and Spring '27 semesters;
- Be featured at the 5th Annual Climate HQ FilmFest in April 2027. Fellows may also be invited to participate in a panel discussion and audience Q&A on stage with the other filmmakers. Additionally, Storytellers will be featured on our website (with permission);
- Meet and engage with other filmmakers, students, activists, educators, and artists!
Selected Storyteller Fellows will be required to:
- Enroll in a 1-unit course (BIO 681) in Spring '27 with other Climate HQ fellows (attendance is flexible);
- Meet 1x1 at least twice with Lab mentors in Fall/Spring to discuss projects;
- Attend Lab Workshops (no more than four meetings in total) held via Zoom and based on the cohort's interests, needs, and availability in Fall and Spring;
- Participate in online discussions and group updates.
Applications for the Climate HQ Storytellers’ Lab Fellowship are due October 1st, 2026 by midnight.
Selections will be made and awardees notified mid October.
For more details, submission requirements, and to apply, please visit the submission page HERE.
Questions about the application can be sent to ericarp@sfsu.edu