STORYHIVE Frequently Asked Questions
What should I put in my pitch video?
To make a pitch video that hits all the marks, ensure that you do the following:
include audio and video (we want to see and hear you)
have the Project Lead on camera, as well as your host (if different people)
clearly state your name as the Project Lead, the title of your project, what city and province you are from and a brief description of your project that tells us…
What’s it about?
Why is it important for you to make this project?
How is it relevant to your community? Do people care about this subject?
How are you going to tell your story?
Why are you the best person to tell this story?
A standout pitch video does not need to be perfect from a technical point of view, but should showcase your passion and plan for how you’d like to tell your story.
As an added tip, avoid reading from a script - just speak about your project authentically. Remember - it doesn't have to be perfect!
What is a serving region?
A serving region is an area that includes communities in Alberta and BC that are eligible to receive grant funding from TELUS STORYHIVE. The funding available in each region is based on a minimum number of TELUS Optik TV subscribers in that region, which is regulated by the CRTC (the Canadian Radio Television Telecommunications Commission). At TELUS STORYHIVE, we are stewards of this funding to support the production content made by and for members of the community.
Communities are often grouped together with their nearest and largest urban centre. To see which serving region your community falls under, refer to https://www.storyhive.com/en/about/serving-regions
What is IP ownership?
Intellectual property, or IP, refers to the ownership of creative works and original ideas. This includes a wide range of creations, including music, visual art, video content and design. At TELUS STORYHIVE, we believe in empowering our creators, which is why the Project Lead always retains full IP ownership.
You own your content, and your agreement with TELUS is specifically for distribution rights.
Are there any popular topics that STORYHIVE sees over and over again in applications? How do I make mine stand out?
Focus on your own, unique perspective and how you will approach your topic of interest in a new way. Some popular topics include artist features, spotlights on local businesses, entrepreneurs, and mental health. These are broad topics, but we are asking you to bring your own angle to the project.
Thinking about producing a cooking series? You might want to consider exploring lesser-spotlighted cuisines or cooking techniques. Or you might want to hone in on a particular audience with the cooking show, for example, how to make healthy and quick meals for toddlers? Or meal-prepping on a budget, or recipes you can make with your airfryer.
There’s nothing wrong with exploring a popular topic or genre, just remember to consider your audience, and how your project can offer something new and different.
What does “locally reflective” mean?
When we refer to “locally reflective” content, we mean that your content must be something that you, as a community member, are passionate about, and that your community is interested in.
Will my topic be of interest to my local community?
Am I making an effort to work with people from my community?
Which locations in my community will I film in?
Most importantly, if you’re interested in a topic, it’s likely others in your community are too!
What are the main differences between producing for broadcast television vs creating a YouTube series?
All projects funded through STORYHIVE will be broadcast on TELUS Optik TV on demand which has broadcast regulations. All content must be suitable for a general audience (G or PG rated), meet certain technical requirements, have fair and balanced views and does not contain any copyright material. If funded, each project lead will have access to these guidelines to ensure your project meets these requirements and is ready to premiere on Optik TV Video on Demand.
Am I eligible for funding?
If you live in any of the eligible serving regions in Alberta and BC, are the age of majority in their province, are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and do not have professional experience in the TV, Film or Radio industries, you can apply!
Our programs are designed for new and emerging user-generated content creators, aspiring documentary filmmakers and podcasters. If this sounds like you, read our program-specific submission guidelines to learn more about submitting your pitch application.
I want to make a show for kids, is there anything I should know?
Whether you are developing a series for a younger audience or collaborating with minors during production, ensuring the safety of children and youth is our highest priority.
STORYHIVE has a specific approval process in place for creators wishing to produce kids' content. For projects aimed at children, it is mandatory that a team member or consultant possesses professional expertise in childhood education and development.
If your production involves working directly with children, you will be required to undergo and provide a vulnerable sector background check.
When applying for a grant to create programming for kids, we will ask you to identify your specific target demographic (such as ages 4 and under, 5-7, 8-12 or 13-18).
If you have any further questions please contact storyhive@telus.com
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Created: September 11, 2026