Tips for Creating a Successful Pitch
Posted on February 17, 2023
Hi current and future STORYHIVERS! Jennifer Park here. I’m the Manager of the TELUS STORYHIVE team leading our programs including Editions, Voices and Summer Crew. I am a passionate advocate for bringing local stories to life and I want to share some valuable tips for content creators looking to create a successful pitch for any of our STORYHIVE programs, but more specifically our recent Anniversary Documentary Edition that is currently open!
Are you passionate about storytelling and interested in bringing your short documentary idea to life? Then look no further!
The STORYHIVE Anniversary Documentary Edition is still open for applications until February 28, 2023! This is your opportunity to showcase your talent and bring your unique voice to the world. Whether you are an emerging filmmaker or new to the industry, we welcome you to apply and be a part of this exciting program.
We understand that creating your first pitch can be a scary and overwhelming experience. However, we have tips and resources available to help reduce any stress and ensure that you submit your best pitch. With $20,000 in production funding and support from established filmmakers, this program is the perfect platform to try creating your first short documentary and to help bring your vision to life.
So, what are you waiting for?
Here are 10 tips for creating a successful pitch:
Be clear about your story idea: Clearly define your short documentary's concept, message and uniqueness to your community. Share your connection to the story and why it's important to tell it now.
Audience Analysis: Identify the target audience you are aiming to reach with your film project and create a pitch that resonates with them.
Research: Conduct thorough research on the subject matter, relevant historical events and the context.
Subject Selection: Determine the main subjects in your story and what makes them compelling.
Showcase your passion: Choose a topic you are passionate about to showcase your enthusiasm in the final product and enjoy the documentary-making process.
Include visuals in your treatment: We encourage including images when creating your draft treatment to help illustrate your concept and bring it to life.
Keep it concise: A pitch should be brief. Keep it simple, concise and include what you think is most important.
Show, don't tell: Use footage or visual aids to help tell your story and bring your pitch to life. When applying to one of our STORYHIVE programs we ask that you include a 60 second pitch video - think of this as your elevator pitch with an overview of your idea, why it's important and why you should tell this story.
Highlight the impact: Explain how your documentary will impact your local community and what message you hope to convey. Take your time to complete the “Why you?” section of the application process and truly let us know why you should be telling the story.
Explain the production plan: Outline the budget, the timeline, and if applicable, the team that will be working on the project.
By following these tips, you'll be on your way to creating a successful pitch for the STORYHIVE Anniversary Documentary Edition. Intake closes soon! Good luck!