STORYHIVE 2024 SCRIPTED EDITION SUBMISSION RULES
Before beginning your Submission, please read these SUBMISSION RULES carefully. In them you will find important information such as key dates, what kinds of stories and projects we give preference to, eligibility requirements, submission requirements and more. This is more than just the fine print. It’s a guide to creating a successful Submission. For even more information, please check out the FAQs at the end of this document. If you have a question that is not answered in the FAQs, please email the STORYHIVE team at storyhive@telus.com.
There is no fee to apply or participate in the edition. Only one (1) Submission is allowed per Project Lead, though the Project Lead is permitted to be a part of other creative teams. Once your Submission is completed and submitted, the Project Lead cannot be changed.
Selected Project Leads retain all the intellectual property rights, including copyright, to their finished Projects but grant TELUS a 10 year non-exclusive licence to record, reproduce, encode, store, edit, alter, modify, perform, broadcast, distribute and exhibit the Program, in whole or in part, on TELUS Optik TV On Demand, Stream+, TELUS websites, STORYHIVE.com and other TELUS branded websites or social media platforms including the STORYHIVE YouTube channel, and in all advertising and promotional materials for Optik TV, Stream+, TELUS and STORYHIVE.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE
Completed submissions must be received before midnight Pacific Time on May 21, 2024. We recommend that you start your application early and submit it at least 24 hours before the deadline to avoid last minute snags. If your completed application is not submitted by the deadline, it will not be eligible for funding.
KEY DATES
Apr 9 - May 21, 2024 Edition Open for Submissions (Intake closes at 23:59 PT on May 21st, 2024)
Sep 19, 2024 Grant Recipients Announced
Oct 22, 2024 Info Session #1 (online) - Welcome to STORYHIVE (for all Project Leads)
Oct 29, 2024 Info Session #2 (online) - The Business of Screen Media (for all Project Leads)
Nov 5, 2024 Info Session #3 (online) - Bonus Content (for all Project Leads)
Nov 6, 2024 Bonus Content (30-60 minutes) Production Starts
Jan 7, 2025 Info Session #4 - Meet your Mentor (for all Project Leads)
Mar 17, 2025 Bonus Content delivery (no rough or fine cuts needed)
Mar 31, 2025 Final Script for Main Program completed
Apr 2, 2025 Main Program Production starts
Aug 25, 2025 Main Program Rough Cut delivery
Oct 6, 2025 Main Program First Fine Cut delivery
Oct 27, 2025 Main Program Second Fine Cut delivery
Nov 17, 2025 Main Program STORYHIVE Approval Cut delivery
Dec 1, 2025 Main Program Final Delivery of Project to TELUS STORYHIVE
2026 (Date TBD) Official Edition Launch on TELUS Optik TV, Stream+ and STORYHIVE YouTube channel
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Each STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition Project will consist of a 20-45 minute locally reflective scripted (narrative) Main Program plus a 30-60 minute locally reflective Bonus Content program. For more info on the Main Program and Bonus Content, see our FAQs.
For projects involving Indigenous communities, cultures, concepts and stories, we encourage applicants to consult On-Screen Protocols & Pathways before submitting their project: https://iso-bea.ca/download/on-screen-protocols-pathways
GRANT DESCRIPTION
Selected Project Leads will each be eligible to receive a Production Grant of $20,000 CAD to create a Project. In addition to the funding, successful creators will receive customized training, filmmaking mentorship and distribution of their projects on select TELUS Platforms. This is a chance to make some content that matters to you and retain the intellectual property rights to your produced work.
The Grant is provided to the Project Lead and is non-transferable; the Project Lead cannot change.
ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible to receive a Grant from TELUS, Project Leads must meet all the eligibility requirements outlined below. The Project Lead will act as the primary applicant and accept responsibility for the obligations under these Terms and, if chosen to receive a Grant, under the terms of the TELUS Grant Agreement.
Project Leads can be first time producers/filmmakers; previous experience is not required in order to be eligible.
EACH PROJECT LEAD MUST:
1. Be the age of majority, or older, in their province of residence (British Columbia or Alberta) as of the STORYHIVE Edition intake deadline date, May 21, 2024 at midnight PT;
2. Be a resident of one of the following communities in British Columbia or Alberta:
NOTE: If you are a resident of an Indigenous community close to one of these listed communities, please reach out to us at storyhive@telus.com to verify your eligibility.
ALBERTA:
Calgary
Airdrie, Arrowwood, Blackie, Brooks, Calgary, Canmore, Carstairs, Chestermere, Chestermere Lake, Cochrane, Cold Lake IR 149A, Crossfield, De Winton, Dead Man's Flats, Didsbury, Fairview, Heritage Pointe, High River, Lakeview, Langdon, Milo, Okotoks, Rocky View County, Shepard, Southeast Calgary, Strathmore
Edmonton
Acheson, Alberta Beach, Ardrossan, Beaumont, Brazeau County, Camrose, Devon, Drayton Valley, Edmonton, Edmonton Garrison, Edson, Evansburg, Fort Saskatchewan, Hinton, Leduc, Leduc County, Marlboro, Morinville, Namao, Nisku, Onoway, Parkland County, Peers, Poplar Ridge, Saint Albert, Sangudo, Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove, St Albert, Stony Plain, Stony Plain IR 135, Strathcona County, Sunset Point, Tomahawk, Val Quentin, Vegreville, Wabamum, Wabamun, Westlock, Wetaskiwin, Wetawiskin, Whitecourt, Wildwood
Fort McMurray
Fort McKay, Fort McMurray, Fort McMurray Indian Reserve No. 174d
Grande Prairie
Clairmont, Debolt, Donnelly, Eagle Sham, Falher, Faust, Girouxville, Grande Prairie, High Prairie, Joussard, Kinuso, Mclennan, Peace River, Slave Lake, Swan River 150E, Widewater
Lethbridge
Coalhurst, Lethbridge
Lloydminster
Medicine Hat
Dunmore, Medicine Hat, Redcliff
Red Deer
Blackfalds, Innisfail, Lacombe, Penhold, Ponoka, Red Deer, Red Deer County, Springbrook, Sylvan Lake
BRITISH COLUMBIA:
Cranbrook
Dawson Creek
Fort St John
Kamloops
Heffley Creek, Kamloops
Kelowna
Kelowna, Peachland, Westbank
Nanaimo
Black Creek, Bowser, Brilliant, Campbell River, Chemainus, Cobble Hill, Comox, Courtenay, Cowichan Bay, Cumberland, Denman Island, Duncan, Heriot Bay, Hornby Island, Ladysmith, Lake Cowichan, Lantzville, Merville, Mill Bay, Mount Washington, Nanaimo, Nanoose Bay, Parksville, Penelakut Island, Port Alberni, Qualicum Beach, Quathiaski Cove, Quinsam IR 12, Shawnigan Lake, Union Bay
Penticton
Creston, Faulder, Fruitvale, Gallagher Lake, Kaleden, Montrose, Naramata, Oasis, Okanagan Falls, Oliver, Osoyoos, Penticton, Penticton Indian Reserve 2, Plamondon, Rivervale, Rossland, Summerland, Trail, Warfield
Prince George
Beaverley, Lheidli T'Enneh, Prince George
Revelstoke
Terrace
Kisumkalum Mountain, Kitselas, Kitselas-Kulspai, Terrace
Vancouver
Abbotsford, Agassiz, Aldergrove, Anmore, Annacis Island, Belcarra, Bowen Island, Brackendale, Britannia Beach, Burnaby, Chilliwack, Chilliwack River Valley, Columbia Valley, Columbus OH 43, Coquitlam, Cultus Lake, Davis Bay, Delta, Fort Langley, Furry Creek, Garden Bay, Garibaldi Highlands, Gibson, Gibsons, Granthams Landing, Halfmoon Bay, Hatzic, Ladner, Lake Errock, Langley, Lindell Beach, Lions Bay, Madeira Park, Maple Ridge, Mission, Montana, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Pender Harbour, Pitt Meadows, Popkum, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Powell River, Richmond, Roberts Creek, Rosedale, Sechelt, Secret Cove, Selma Park, Squamish, Surrey, Thornhill, Tsawwassen, Tsawwassen IR, Vancouver, West Vancouver, Whistler, White Rock, Wilson Creek
Vernon
Armstrong, Canoe Creek IR, Coldstream, Deep Creek, Enderby, Lake Country, Okanagan Indian Reserve 1, Oyama, Priest's Valley 6, Priests Valley, Salmon Arm, Silver Creek, Spallumcheen, Vernon, Winfield
Victoria
Beecher Bay IR, Brentwood Bay, Central Saanich, Cole Bay IR, Colwood, Esquimalt, Highlands, Langford, Metchosin, New Songhees IR, North Saanich, Oak Bay, Saanich, Saanichton, Sidney, Sooke, T'Sou-Ke First Nation / Sooke IR, Victoria, View Royal
Williams Lake
100 Mile House, 108 Mile House, 150 Mile House, Alexis Creek, Alkali Lake IR, Dog Creek IR, Hanvecille, Mcleese Lake, Riske Creek, Soda Creek IR, Stswecem'c Xgat'tem, Toosey 1, Williams Lake
3. Be a resident of the community from which they are applying (see eligible communities listed above) and be able to supply current proof of residency for the address listed on their submission;
4. Be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada;
5. Be able to provide complete, clean, unencumbered chain of title for the Project, must have all the rights, releases and clearances necessary to produce, own and exploit the Project and for deployment of the Project on required TELUS Platforms (including synchronization and master use rights for any music used in the Project), and must enter into a TELUS Grant Agreement with TELUS;
6. Acknowledge they have read, understand and will adhere to the STORYHIVE Community Code of Conduct: https://www.storyhive.com/index/code-of-conduct;
7. Not be an individual associated with TELUS, including but not limited to the following: the employees, contractors, agents and representatives of TELUS, Optik TV, TELUS Satellite TV or another broadcast distribution undertaking (a BDU) such as Shaw Cable, Shaw Direct or any other Canadian cable or IPTV service provider, or any external partners of TELUS who enter into an agreement with TELUS to assist in any way with this STORYHIVE Edition. For clarity, these excluded Individuals may participate in a Submission and a Project as a member of the video production crew provided they are not the Project Lead;
8. Not be working within the traditional Canadian broadcast system or a media professional widely known to the public, and must not have received a broadcast licence from a Canadian broadcaster in the last five years. Please note that funding for STORYHIVE programs is reserved for applicants with zero to limited experience. Applicants with extensive professional experience in the film industry or distribution deals outside TELUS STORYHIVE are ineligible.
9. Submit their Project for review on the following dates:
Bonus Content Delivery (no rough cut or fine cut needed) - Mar 17, 2025
Final Script for Main Program - Mar 31, 2025
Main Program Rough Cut delivery - Aug 25, 2025 ;
Main Program First Fine Cut delivery - Oct 6, 2025;
Main Program Second Fine Cut delivery - Oct 27, 2025; and
Main Program STORYHIVE Approval Cut - Nov 17, 2025;
Main Program Final Delivery - Dec 1, 2025.
Complete technical delivery of the Project on or before 5:00 pm PT on Dec 1, 2025 and receive TELUS’ acceptance and approval of the Program, in its discretion; and
10. Accept sole responsibility for all budget overages for the Project.
11. In the spirit of inclusivity, endeavor to work with crews that also create opportunities for women and non-binary creators in key creative roles wherever possible. It is not a requirement of the program to have a crew in place at the time of application. Key creative roles include: Producer, Director, Writer, Director of Photography, Editor, Sound Designer, Composer, Production Designer;
EACH PROJECT MUST:
1. Fall into the category of scripted film or scripted series pilot episode;
2. Include a 20-45 minute scripted program plus 30-60 minutes of Bonus Content;
3. Be locally reflective. To be considered “locally reflective”, the Project elements must meet the following criteria:
The Project Lead currently resides in the community, town or city indicated on their application to the STORYHIVE edition (the “Community of Residence”);
No less than 80% of the filming and production of the Project will take place in the Project Lead’s Community of Residence;
The Project must be set in the applicant's community of residence (Note - It does not have to be set in the present day. It could be set in the past or even the future.) and it must be about characters, topics or events that are relevant to and reflective of your community of residence. For additional information, refer to our FAQs;
4. Be in compliance with all laws, regulations and policies governing content, taste, community reflection and diversity of voices including the Broadcasting Act, CRTC Best Practice Code, and other relevant Canadian legislation pertaining to the nature of acceptable content (please consult the Canadian Broadcast Standards Council website for further information);
5. Qualify for a G or PG rating; must not contravene the law, promote hatred or contempt towards other individuals or groups; must not contain obscene or profane language or imagery or false or misleading factual content;
6. Be in a format that can be delivered for distribution on IPTV and online (i.e. meet technical requirements for delivery for both video on demand and online) Note: submitted videos must be in a High Definition format; additional 4K delivery (in addition to HD) is optional;
7. Not have been already shot and seeking completion funding. STORYHIVE will allow a maximum of 15% of a Project to have previously been shot;
8. Not have been previously licensed to a broadcaster or appeared on a major network;
9. Not include financing for the production from a broadcaster (i.e. conventional television network like CBC, CTV, Global or City TV, over-the-top Internet-based service provider such as Netflix, or discretionary (specialty) service such as History TV, Documentary Channel or Food Network); and
10. Be in English or be able to be subtitled or versioned into English.
INELIGIBLE PROJECTS
STORYHIVE does not wish to unduly limit the types of content or submissions that it supports, and Submissions for all types of locally reflective Projects are encouraged. However, the following types of projects are ineligible for this STORYHIVE Edition:
Documentaries
Animation (can include animated elements, just no fully animated projects)
Music Videos
Lifestyle TV, Reality TV, “How to” Documentaries and Docusoaps;
News and Reporting
Video Game and other applications
Websites
Talk shows
Slow television, or any programming genre without sound, action, or people (bird cams, yule logs, traffic cameras, silent films, etc.)
Audio-only content
Non-Canadian content
Promotional and advertorial content
In addition, the following types of applicants and project material are excluded from eligibility:
Non-profits groups, organizations and production companies are ineligible. Individuals who work for such groups may apply, but these individuals must commit to being the Project Lead for the duration of the project. These individuals hold the copyright to the project.
Religious or sectarian organizations (except where they represent non-denominational community and social support services);
Political organizations and candidates; and
Advocacy or special interest groups.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
Click “Join Now” and create your STORYHIVE creator profile on storyhive.com or simply login if you already have an account.
Submit a completed submission by 11:59 pm Pacific Time on May 21, 2024
NOTE - You do not need to submit everything at the same time (Click "Save application" to save your work as you go). We recommend that you start your application early and submit it at least 24 hours before the deadline to avoid last minute snags. If your completed application is not submitted by the deadline, it will not be eligible for funding.
That’s it! It costs $0 to apply. If you have any questions at anytime, please email storyhive@telus.com. Our team will be happy to help you.
SUBMISSION REVIEW
Once the intake period closes at 11:59 pm PT on May 21, 2024, all proposed Projects will be reviewed for eligibility. Only proposed Projects that meet the eligibility criteria outlined above will be eligible for consideration by the selection committee. TELUS will have the sole discretion to determine whether a proposed Project meets the eligibility criteria for the STORYHIVE Edition.
SELECTION ANNOUNCEMENT
Successful Projects will be announced September 19, 2024. If your Project is selected to receive a Grant, TELUS will contact the Project Lead directly. TELUS will verify the eligibility of the Project Lead and Project and if successfully verified, in TELUS’ sole discretion, will provide the Project Lead with a TELUS Grant Agreement for review and execution.
DECISIONS OF TELUS
All decisions of TELUS regarding this STORYHIVE Edition are final and binding.
If you have any questions regarding this edition, please email us here: storyhive@telus.com
FAQs
What is the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition?
We're thrilled to embark on a cinematic journey with the new STORYHIVE Scripted Edition: a journey from script to screen, tailored exclusively for scripted genres. Bring your locally reflective scripted 20-45 minute film project to life with $20,000 in production funding, training, mentorship with the National Screen Institute and distribution on TELUS Optik TV and STORYHIVE’s YouTube channel. Unleash your creativity in crafting diverse and captivating short to mid-length fiction films or community TV pilots, from uproarious comedies to intense dramas, and everything in between. Join us on this exciting journey of cinematic storytelling!
Each STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition project will consist of a 20-45 minute locally reflective scripted (narrative) Main Program plus a 30-60 minute locally reflective Bonus Content program. This is a chance to make some content that matters to you and retain the intellectual property rights to your produced work.
No previous experience in film production or other creative endeavours is required for you to submit an application for funding.
For projects involving Indigenous communities, cultures, concepts and stories, we encourage applicants to consult On-Screen Protocols & Pathways before submitting their project: https://iso-bea.ca/download/on-screen-protocols-pathways
What is the expected time commitment for the STORYHIVE Scripted Edition?
The STORYHIVE Scripted Edition begins in October 2024 with your first online Content Creator Info Session and ends in December 2025 with the final delivery deadline for your completed Main Program. Project Leads must be prepared to allocate an appropriate amount of time to the planning, production and delivery of your Project and to meet all deadlines. Project Leads can expect to:
Attend 4 online Content Creator Info Sessions
Review the Slack creator workspace on a weekly basis and be aware of all communications from their assigned STORYHIVE Program Manager
Review the Content Creator Kit
Engage in self-directed learning
Book regular 1-on-1 meetings with your mentor throughout production
The amount of time required for this program can vary week to week. Depending on your experience and team, you can expect to dedicate an average of 10-15 hours a week to this work. Please reflect on your capacity and your other roles and responsibilities in your personal and/or professional life.
You are highly encouraged to assemble reliable team members so that you can outsource parts of your production to other skilled experts e.g. hiring an editor or graphic designer to support you along your journey.
When do applications open for the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition?
Applications open at noon (12:00 pm) Pacific Time (PT) April 9, 2024. The deadline to submit is 11:59 pm PT on May 21, 2024.
What is the deadline to apply for the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition?
11:59 pm PT on May 21, 2024 is the deadline to apply for the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition.
Please note: The application portal closes promptly at 11:59 pm on May 21, 2024. We are unable to accept applications submitted after this deadline. We recommend that you start your application early and submit it at least 24 hours before the deadline to avoid last minute snags.
What will each selected project receive for the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition?
Each successful project will receive a $20,000 production grant (available to BC and Alberta residents only) from TELUS to produce a 20-45 minute locally reflective scripted (narrative) Main Program plus 30-60 minutes of Bonus Content. The Project Leads will also receive mentorship from the National Screen Institute and the selected projects will receive distribution to 1M+ subscribers on select TELUS platforms.
How will successful projects be selected for the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition?
A Selection Committee will review all eligible projects and select which projects receive funding. When making their selections, the Selection Committee will consider a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the submitted application, the impact of the grant on the content creator and the importance of the story to the content creator’s community of residence.
What do I need to submit for my STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition application?
To submit an application, you must register as a creator on STORYHIVE.com.
From there, applicants create an online submission that includes:
PROJECT INFORMATION:
If your project is selected for funding, some of the information and submission materials in this section may be published on the STORYHIVE website or other STORYHIVE platforms.
Project Title (text field, maximum 80 characters)
Genre (select from dropdown list)
Logline (text field, maximum 220 characters)
Synopsis (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Projected Runtime (enter minutes for Main Program only; minimum 20 minutes, recommended maximum 45 minutes)
60 Second Pitch Video (share a public YouTube link to a 55-65 second pitch video)
ADDITIONAL PROJECT DETAILS:
The following submission materials will be reviewed by the Selection Committee and STORYHIVE team. They will not be available to the public.
Optional (Social Media) - Facebook, LinkedIn, IMDb, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok
How did you hear about this Edition? (select from dropdown list)
Community relevancy (text field, maximum 1000 characters)
Inclusion Statement (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Why you? (text field, maximum 1000 characters)
How are you going to tell your story? (text field, maximum 1000 characters)
Draft Script (PDF upload; maximum 5MB)
Locations (select yes or no with text fields)
Potential Locations (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Project Lead Experience (dropdown)
Production Experience (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Accessibility Accommodations (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Additional Languages (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Key Role Requirement (check box)
Eligibility Requirement (check box)
Project Plans (text input, 800 characters)
Budget (template with text fields)
TELUS STORYHIVE Submission Release Agreement (check boxes)
Please confirm that all your submission materials are correct and then agree to the STORYHIVE Submission Release Agreement.
For advice on how to complete each section of the application, please refer to our “How do I create a strong STORYHIVE application?” guide.
What should my draft script look like?
NOTE: Your script will NOT be made public.
Please keep the following in mind when writing your script:
STORY & SETTING: All projects must be locally reflective. This means the story must be set in the applicant’s community of residence (Note - It does not have to be set in the present day. It could be set in the past or even the future.) and it must be about characters, topics or events that are relevant to and reflective of that community.
RATING: The program that you deliver to TELUS must be rated G or PG and have no coarse language. However, you are free to create alternate cuts of your program for other uses such as festivals if you wish.
SCRIPT DRAFT: You must submit a full draft script. It does not need to be a final draft. A rough draft is fine. You will have the opportunity to further develop and refine your script with the help of your mentor who is an experienced filmmaker.
SCRIPT LENGTH: 1 page of script in standard format translates on average to 1 minute of screen time so, for example, if you wish to make a 20 minute film you should write an approximately 20 page script.
SCRIPT FORMAT: You can find many script templates online - as well as "How to" videos. Also, most word processing programs like Microsoft Word offer a script or screenplay template.
Here are the basics on formatting your script:
FONT: 12-point Courier, single spaced
MARGINS: Left: 1.5 inch Right: 1 inch Top: 1 inch Bottom: 1 inch
SCENE HEADINGS: ALL CAPS (optional: may also be in BOLD)
ACTION or SCENE DESCRIPTION: always in present tense. First time you introduce a character, their name should be in ALL CAPS.
DIALOGUE: Character names must be in ALL CAPS and be positioned starting 3.7 inches from the left side of the page. The dialogue block starts 2.5 inches from the left side of the page
PAGE NUMBERS: in the top right corner with a 0.5 inch margin from the top of the page. The first page (title page) should not be numbered.
CLICK HERE to see a script sample.
How do I fill in the budget?
A budget template is provided in the application on the STORYHIVE website. Please enter an estimated cost for each line item that is applicable to your project (remaining fields may be left blank).
NOTE - You are only providing a draft budget. Both line items and amounts may change during production.
Your total budget should add up to the total grant amount. For example, if the production grant for the Edition is $20,000, your budget total should also be $20,000.
Your Total Above the Line "A" cost (including: story rights/acquisitions, writer, development costs, producer and director) should not be more than 20% of your total budget (e.g. if the grant amount is $20,000, your above the line total cannot exceed $4,000)
A budget for unforeseen production costs (“contingency”) should be included. A contingency amount equal to 5-10% of your budget is recommended. Note: Your contingency amount cannot be more than 10% of your total budget.
CLICK HERE to see a sample budget for a scripted short film (note - line items and amounts could be different for your project).
What is the Bonus Content?
For the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition, in addition to your Main Program, you must create and deliver 30-60 minutes of Bonus Content.
The Bonus Content must be a locally reflective nonfiction program that is related to your Main Program and it must adhere to a G or PG rating.
Keep your Bonus Content simple and economical, as the majority of your budget and production time should be dedicated to your Main Program. You will be filming and delivering your Bonus Content during the pre-production phase of your Main Program.
For your Bonus Content, you can film any combination of the following:
A single long interview with the Project Lead (you), Cast, Key Creatives, other Crew, or other people in your community.
A series of shorter interviews with the Project Lead (you), Cast, Key Creatives, other Crew, or other people in your community.
A table read of your Main Program script. You can film a table read with your cast or potential cast or even just with friends. As part of script development it is often helpful to set up a table read so that you can actually hear your dialogue being spoken and get a sense of how each scene is working.
Your Bonus Content will appear alongside your Main Program when we launch this edition on TELUS Optik TV so think of what might interest viewers who have just watched your Main Program. You can also post and share excerpts from your Bonus Content online during your Main Program production to spark interest and start building an audience for your project.
What is the Main Program?
The completed Main Program must be a locally reflective scripted (narrative) program that is 20-45 minutes in length including any and all screen credits and it must adhere to a G or PG rating.
What kinds of stories is STORYHIVE looking to fund in the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition?
We are looking for compelling locally reflective scripted stories that fall within a G or PG rating.
All genres of scripted films are eligible including (but not limited to) Drama, Comedy, Action, Romance, Suspense, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Horror, Western, and Musical.
To be considered locally reflective the story must be set in the applicant's community of residence (Note - It does not have to be set in the present day. It could be set in the past or even the future.) and it must be about characters, topics or events that are relevant to and reflective of that community.
In addition, no less than 80% of the filming and production of the Project must take place in your community of residence.
All finished films must have a minimum runtime of 20 minutes with a recommended maximum of 45 minutes.
What types of projects are NOT eligible for the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition?
Any project that does not fit within the category of scripted (narrative) film or series pilot is ineligible for the Scripted Edition.
Ineligible projects include documentaries (including “How to” documentaries and docusoaps), animation (can include animated elements, but no fully animated projects), music videos, lifestyle TV, reality TV, news and reporting, talk shows, slow TV, audio-only content, promotional and advertorial content, video games and other applications; websites, and all non-Canadian content.
In addition, the following types of applicants and project material are excluded from eligibility:
Non-profits groups, organizations and production companies are ineligible. Individuals who work for such groups may apply, but these individuals must commit to being the Project Lead for the duration of the project. These individuals hold the copyright to the project.
Religious or sectarian organizations (except where they represent non-denominational community and social support services);
Political organizations and candidates; and
Advocacy or special interest groups.
What does it mean to be “locally reflective”?
For a project to be considered locally reflective, the story must be set in the applicant's community of residence (Note - It does not have to be set in the present day. It could be set in the past or even the future.) and it must be about characters, topics or events that are relevant to and reflective of that community.
(Note: The applicant’s community of residence must be one of the communities eligible for STORYHIVE funding. Please refer to the list of communities that are eligible for STORYHIVE grants before applying.)
In addition, no less than 80% of the filming and production of the Project must take place in the applicant’s community of residence.
Why is STORYHIVE launching a Scripted Edition?
STORYHIVE is committed to recognizing and fostering the value and impact of funding scripted programming from new and emerging content creators, aligning with our mission to cultivate and elevate the next generation of storytellers within the Canadian media landscape. Our ongoing support for scripted content exists in our history of funding both scripted and documentary projects, for example, within Focused Editions such as the Black Creators Edition and Indigenous Storyteller Edition.
Introducing our next Editions program – the STORYHIVE Scripted Edition, a dedicated program designed to support fully scripted content. This new program initiative marks a significant stride in our commitment to empowering storytellers and amplifying their voices. We are excited to present this opportunity to our communities and eagerly anticipate the exceptional ideas and narratives that will be brought to life through this program.
All projects funded through all STORYHIVE programs will continue to adhere to our mandate to support and distribute locally relevant and reflective stories, with a focus on topics and themes important to the content creators’ local communities.
Who is eligible for the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition?
The Project Lead must be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada residing in BC or Alberta.
The Project Lead’s community of residence must be one of STORYHIVE’s eligible communities and the Project Lead must be able to supply current proof of residency for the address listed on their submission. Other team members beside the Project Lead are not required to be a resident of an eligible community. Please see the list of eligible communities.
Note: If you are a resident of an Indigenous community close to one of the listed eligible communities, please reach out to us at storyhive@telus.com to verify your eligibility.
The Project Lead must be the age of majority, or older, in their province of residence (British Columbia or Alberta) as of the STORYHIVE Edition intake deadline date, May 21, 2024.
Previous experience is not required to be eligible. The Project Lead can be a first time producer/filmmaker.
For more details, please see the eligibility section in the 2024 Scripted Edition Submission Rules.
What are my responsibilities as the Project Lead?
As the Project Lead, you are the Producer of the program and are responsible for all aspects of the Project with support from your STORYHIVE Project Manager and your mentor.
You will be responsible for:
Signing the grant agreement.
Receiving all payments (you may hire a production accountant to help manage your budget).
All agreements with your cast and crew.
Ensuring that no less than 80% of the filming and production of the program will take place in your community of residence.
Securing appearance and location releases as well as all copyright clearances for music, images and footage used in the film.
Submitting all of your deliverables:
Bonus Content - 30-60 minutes. Final Delivery (including artwork and reports)
Main Program - 20-45 minutes. Rough Cut, Fine Cuts, STORYHIVE Approval Cut and Final Delivery (including artwork and reports)
Communicating regularly with your Mentor and the National Screen Institute program manager as well as your STORYHIVE Program Manager.
Ensuring you and your team adhere to STORYHIVE’s Code of Conduct.
Please note that the Project Lead, as the copyright owner of the Project and the person signing the grant agreement, is the Producer of the Project but may also take on additional key creative roles if they wish to.
What does the training and mentorship look like?
Project Leads will attend 4 online content creator info sessions:
Welcome to STORYHIVE
The Business of Screen Media
Bonus Content & Story Development
Meet your Mentor
STORYHIVE has partnered with the National Screen Institute (NSI) to provide production mentorship.
The NSI will match Project Leads with a mentor who is an experienced filmmaker to help guide and support them and their project throughout production.
The mentor will, to the best of the mentor’s abilities, work with the production team to provide production mentorship and guidance on your project.
Reporting to the NSI Program Manager, and working in conjunction with the NSI team, the Program Mentor will be responsible for the following:
Be available to the production team via email/phone/Zoom throughout the term of the agreement to discuss the individual needs of the projects (approximately one hour bi-weekly) and offer advice and assistance as required.
Review, provide feedback and advise the production team through each stage of the project production process, including, but not limited to:
Script
Production Schedule and production budget
Post-production: Rough Cut / Fine Cut #1 / Fine Cut #2
Marketing and distribution plans
Provide the NSI with written acknowledgement, via email, of review and feedback of the Main Program Rough Cut and Fine Cut # 1 and #2 within the timeframes indicated by STORYHIVE.
View the completed Main Program prior to STORYHIVE Approval Cut delivery.
The Mentor shall use best efforts to enrich the production team's experience and connect the production team with resources and resource people within the industry in areas where the production team's expertise may be lacking.
Adhere to STORYHIVE’s Code of Conduct.
The NSI may be in contact with the Program Mentor from time to time to discuss the development of the production team and the program.
In addition, your STORYHIVE program manager will guide and support you throughout your STORYHIVE journey.
What rights do I need for any materials used in my Project?
If provided a grant, Project Leads must be able to provide a complete, clean and unencumbered chain of title (proof of rights ownership) for the project and must enter into a Grant Agreement with TELUS STORYHIVE.
The applicant must have and retain all necessary release forms and the rights to all the music (including synchronization and master use rights) and all other material including logos and signage, interviews, performances, etc. in your project.
Can we apply as a team for the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition?
All teams must have one person who is the Project Lead and applies for the grant and owns the content. The Project Lead will lead the production aspects of the project.
Project Leads will retain all the rights, including copyright and releases to the completed project.
NOTE - Project Leads do not need to have any team members attached to their project at the submission stage in order to apply for funding.
Once a project is submitted, the Project Lead cannot change. The grant is funded to the Project Lead and is non-transferable. Other team members are not required to reside in one of the eligible communities.
When will I know if my application is successful?
Successful projects for the 2024 Scripted Edition will be announced on September 19, 2024.
What happens if my application is successful?
Each successful 2024 Scripted project is eligible to receive a $20,000 production grant from TELUS to produce their project and the Project Lead will receive mentorship and training. The selected projects will also receive distribution on select TELUS platforms.
Grants are only available to residents of eligible BC and Alberta communities. Before the funding is provided, the Project Lead must submit current proof of residency for the address listed on their submission.
The successful Project Lead must attend mandatory online Content Creator Info Sessions on Oct 22, 2024, Oct 29, 2024, Nov 5, 2024 and Jan 7, 2025. The info sessions are a vital part of the STORYHIVE process for all Project Leads.
How long does my STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted program have to be?
The Main Program must be a minimum of 20 minutes in length, including any credits. A maximum length of no more than 45 minutes is recommended.
The Bonus Content must be a minimum of 30 minutes in length, including any credits. A maximum length of no more than 60 minutes is recommended.
When does the STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted project have to be completed?
If provided a grant, teams must be able to deliver the Bonus Content on or before 5:00 pm PT, Mar 17, 2025 and the Main Program on or before 5:00 pm PT, Dec 1, 2025.
When planning their projects, applicants should note the following dates:
Mar 17, 2025 Bonus Content Final Delivery
Aug 25, 2025 Main Program Rough Cut delivery
Oct 6, 2025 Main Program First Fine Cut delivery
Oct 27, 2025 Main Program Second Fine Cut delivery
Nov 17, 2025 Main Program STORYHIVE Approval Cut
Dec 1, 2025 Main Program Final Delivery
Am I able to screen my project at festivals or online before my final delivery to TELUS or before my project’s official launch date on TELUS platforms?
Projects Leads retain the copyright to their projects and are encouraged to submit to festivals and participate in community screenings. The STORYHIVE Approval Cut of your project must be reviewed and approved by your STORYHIVE Project Manager prior to any screenings, festival submissions or distribution.
Festival entries are entirely optional. It’s up to you as the Project Lead to determine your festival strategy. As no additional funding is available for festival entries, this should be built into your project budget if you plan to apply for festivals.
If you wish to launch your project on your own channels or pursue alternate distribution options prior to the official launch date, please contact your STORYHIVE Project Manager.
Please note that distribution agreements must not conflict with your obligations to STORYHIVE outlined in your Grant Agreement (see section 7 of your STORYHIVE Grant Agreement).
When will my STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition project be on TELUS Optik TV®, Stream+® and online?
Your project must be delivered to STORYHIVE by the deadline indicated in your Grant Agreement. Projects will then be encoded and uploaded to TELUS Optik TV®, typically within a few weeks of delivery. Projects funded by STORYHIVE must be delivered and available on TELUS Optik TV within the same broadcast year they are funded.
The STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition Main Program will officially launch on TELUS Optik TV®, Stream+® and the STORYHIVE YouTube channel in 2026 (Date TBD) several months after Final Delivery. This will give you the opportunity, if you wish, to pursue a festival run and other avenues for distribution prior to the official launch.
Can I launch my STORYHIVE 2024 Scripted Edition project on my own channels before the official launch date?
The STORYHIVE Approval Cut of your project must be reviewed and approved by your STORYHIVE Program Manager prior to any screenings, festival submissions or distribution. If you wish to launch your project on your own channels prior to your final delivery, please contact your STORYHIVE Program Manager.
What accessibility accommodations does STORYHIVE offer for content creators?
STORYHIVE is committed to providing opportunities that are accessible to all content creators. We believe offering accessible programs and ensuring that our accommodations meet the needs of our participants is essential to empowering our communities. Accommodations we offer include (and are not limited to) Live Captioning/Transcription and ASL Interpretation for online events and workshops. We are on a continued journey as we seek to provide the best and most accessible content creator experience possible. If you have any questions or feedback regarding accessibility accommodations within STORYHIVE programs or initiatives, please get in touch at storyhive@telus.com.
Additional Resources:
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