STORYHIVE 2025 PAN-ASIAN STORYTELLER 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 further 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 by 11:59PM PT on May 8, 2025.
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 1-May 8, 2025 Edition Open for Submissions
May 8, 2025 Intake closes at 23:59 PT
Apr 10, 2025 Ask Me Anything: Online
Apr 14, 2025 Ask Me Anything: IG Stories
Sep 10, 2025 Grant Recipients Announced
Oct 21, 2025 Info Session #1 (online) - Welcome to STORYHIVE (for all Project Leads)
Oct 28, 2025 Info Session #2 (online) - The Business of Screen Media (for all Project Leads)
Nov 4, 2025 Info Session #3 (online) - Discussion about Bonus Content (for all Project Leads)
Nov 5, 2025 Bonus Content (30-60 minutes) Production Starts
Jan 6, 2026 Info Session #4 - Meet Your Mentor (for all Project Leads)
Mar 16, 2026 Bonus Content delivery (no rough or fine cuts needed)
Mar 31, 2026 Final Draft Script/Treatment for Main Program completed
Apr 2, 2026 Main Program Production starts
Aug 24, 2026 Main Program Rough Cut delivery
Oct 5, 2026 Main Program First Fine Cut delivery
Oct 26, 2026 Main Program Second Fine Cut delivery
Nov 16, 2026 Main Program STORYHIVE Approval Cut delivery
Nov 30, 2026 Main Program Final Delivery of Project to TELUS STORYHIVE
2027 (Date TBD) Official Edition Launch on TELUS Optik TV, Stream+ and STORYHIVE YouTube channel
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Each STORYHIVE 2025 Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition Project will consist of a 20-45 minute locally reflective documentary or scripted 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:
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 8, 2025 at 11:59PM PT;
Identify as, or be, of Pan-Asian descent which includes individuals with ancestral origins in East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia and Western Asia.
Be a resident of one of the following communities in British Columbia or Alberta:
NOTE: If you are a resident of an Indigenous community that is not listed below but is in close proximity 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, Hanceville, Mcleese Lake, Riske Creek, Soda Creek IR, Stswecem'c Xgat'tem, Toosey 1, Williams Lake
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;
Be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada;
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;
Acknowledge they have read, understand and will adhere to the STORYHIVE Community Code of Conduct: https://www.storyhive.com/code-of-conduct;
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;
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.
Submit their Project for review on the following dates:
Mar 16, 2026 - Bonus Content Delivery (no rough cut or fine cut needed);
Mar 31, 2026 - Final Script or Treatment for Main Program;
Aug 24, 2026 - Main Program Rough Cut delivery;
Oct 5, 2026 - Main Program First Fine Cut delivery;
Oct 26, 2026 - Main Program Second Fine Cut delivery; and
Nov 16, 2026 - Main Program STORYHIVE Approval Cut;
Nov 30, 2026 - Main Program Final Delivery.
Complete technical delivery of the Project on or before 5:00 pm PT on Nov 30, 2026 and receive TELUS’ acceptance and approval of the Program, in its discretion;
Accept sole responsibility for all budget overages for the Project; and
Attend ALL Creator sessions.
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:
Fall into the category of either documentary or scripted film or series pilot episode;
Include a 20-45 minute documentary/scripted program plus 30-60 minutes of Bonus Content;
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;
NOTE: It does not have to be set in the present day. It could be set in the past or even the future.The Project must be set in the applicant's community of residence and it must be about characters, topics or events that are relevant to and reflective of your community of residence.
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);
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.
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;
Be in English or be able to be subtitled or versioned into English.
Not have been shot more than 15% prior to November 5, 2025. STORYHIVE will allow a maximum of 15% of a project that has previously been shot. Not seeking completion funding.
Not have been previously licensed to a broadcaster or appeared on a major network; and
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);
3. 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:
Animation (can include animated elements, but 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
Projects outside of British Columbia and Alberta
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;
Political organizations and candidates; and
Advocacy or special interest groups.
4. HOW TO PARTICIPATE
Click “Join Now” and create your STORYHIVE creator profile on www.mylocalcontenthub.com or simply login if you already have an account.
Submit a completed submission by 11:59PM PT on May 8, 2025
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.
NOTE: The TELUS STORYHIVE team is unable to support any technical issue requests after 1PM PT on May 8, 2025.
That’s it! It costs $0 to apply. If you have any questions at any time, please email storyhive@telus.com. Our team will be happy to help you.
5. SUBMISSION REVIEW
Once the intake period closes, 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.
6. SELECTION ANNOUNCEMENT
Successful Projects will be announced Sep 10, 2025. 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.
NOTE: Due to the high volume of applications we receive for our programs, we will not be able to respond to individual inquiries regarding the status of your application nor provide specific feedback on why a project was not selected.
7. 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
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
What is the STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition?
STORYHIVE’s inaugural Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition is seeking new and emerging filmmakers and stories from the Asian Creative and Filmmaker community. We acknowledge that there is a history of racialized creators being excluded from the film industry via systemic racism, and the lack of representation brings to light inequities in the community. Filmmaking is a form of storytelling utilizing technology to reach a broader audience, and the story of Canada has been primarily told through the lens of white settlers and has either excluded or misrepresented Asian perspectives and identities. Through this Edition we hope to honour and celebrate storytellers from all over the Asian diasporas, and are seeking fictional and non-fictional stories led and created by the community.
Each STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition project will consist of a 20-45 minute locally reflective documentary or scripted 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 Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition?
STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition begins in October 2025 with your first online Content Creator Info Session and ends in November 2026 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 Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition?
Applications open on April 1, 2025.
When is the deadline to apply for the STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition?
The deadline to apply for the STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition is on May 8, 2025, 11:59PM PT.
NOTE: The application portal closes promptly at 11:59 pm on May 8, 2025. 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 Pan-Asian Storyteller 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 documentary or scripted 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 Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition?
Projects will be selected by a selection committee comprised of experienced Asian filmmakers and Asian TELUS team members of diverse Asian heritage. 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 Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition?
To submit an application, you must register as a creator on www.mylocalcontenthub.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.
Phone Number
Address
Optional - Facebook, LinkedIn, IMDb, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok
How did you hear about this program? (dropdown menu)
Community relevancy (text field, maximum 1000 characters)
Why You? (text field, maximum 1000 characters)
How are you going to tell your story? (text field, maximum 1000 characters)
Draft Treatment or Script (PDF upload; maximum 5MB)
Uniqueness of your program
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity plan, if applicable
Filming 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)
Key Role Requirement (check box)
Eligibility Requirement (check box)
Project Plans (text input, 800 characters)
Budget (template with text fields)
Use of Artificial Intelligence declaration
TELUS STORYHIVE Submission Release Agreement (check boxes)
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 or treatment look like?
(FOR SCRIPTED PROJECTS) Here are some suggestions for what to include in your draft treatment:
STORY
How does your story begin? How are you introducing the story and characters to your audience?
What is the conflict? What problem are the characters trying to solve?
How does it get resolved?
How do you plan to tell the story visually?
CHARACTERS
Who are the characters? Give us a brief description of each main character.
SETTING
Where is the story taking place? Gives us a brief description of the setting and why it’s set there.
(FOR DOCUMENTARY PROJECTS) Here are some suggestions for what to include in your draft treatment:
STORY
What’s the main question you’re seeking to answer in your documentary?
How do you plan to tell the story visually?
What do you hope the audience learns or understands from watching the Documentary?
Are there any specific events that you want to cover during the film? (Keep your rough cut delivery date in mind).
INTERVIEW SUBJECTS
Who do you plan to interview? Are they confirmed?
Why do you want to include them in the film?
What do you plan to ask them?
How have the interview subjects evolved for the duration of the film?
What do we learn from them?
NOTE: Your treatment will NOT be made public.
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).
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 documentary or scripted project
Line items and amounts could be different for your project.
NOTE: You are only providing a draft budget. Both line items and amounts may change during production.
What is the Bonus Content?
For the STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Storyteller 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/Participants, Key Creatives, other Crew, or other people in your community.
A series of shorter interviews with the Project Lead (you), Cast/Participants, Key Creatives, other Crew, or other people in your community.
A table read of your Main Program script (for scripted projects). 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 documentary or 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 Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition?
STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition is seeking locally reflective fictional and non-fictional stories led and created by Asian creators. Documentaries and scripted films are eligible including (but not limited to) Drama, Comedy, Action, Romance, Suspense, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Horror, Western, and Musical.
The subject matter is completely up to you but please keep in mind that 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.
Through this program, we hope to honour and celebrate storytellers across all Pan-Asian diasporas, and are seeking narrative short films and documentaries led and created by Pan-Asian communities. We also aim to uplift underrepresented Asian communities, such as West and Central Asian groups.
The Project Lead must self identify as Pan-Asian and be a permanent resident of British Columbia or Alberta.
What types of projects are NOT eligible for the STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition?
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 the STORYHIVE Edition:
Music Videos
Animation (can include animated elements, but no fully animated projects)
Lifestyle or Reality TV
News and Reporting
Video Game and other applications
Websites
News or reporting
Talk shows
Slow television, or any programming genre without sound, action, or people (bird cams, yule logs, traffic cameras, etc.)
Non-Canadian content
Audio-only content
Promotional and advertorial content
STORYHIVE will consider any complete applications that meet all the eligibility requirements for funding. All standard rules regarding acceptable content and exclusions apply.
Most successful applicants spend time reading the fine print in the Submission Guidelines and Rules before submitting their pitch. We created them as a guide for creating an awesome application, so check them out!
NOTE: The subject matter of the Project does not have to be Asian-themed.
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 and it must be about characters, topics or events that are relevant to and reflective of that community.
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.
All finished films must have a minimum runtime of 20 minutes with a recommended maximum of 45 minutes.
NOTE: It does not have to be set in the present day. It could be set in the past or even the future.
Why is STORYHIVE launching a Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition?
Recognizing the importance of Pan-Asian perspectives, and having funded many Pan-Asian-led projects over the past decade, we see a strong need for a dedicated program to highlight Pan-Asian stories and experiences. Historically, STORYHIVE has launched focused Editions, such as the Black Creators Edition and Indigenous Storyteller Edition, to amplify underrepresented voices. This new Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition aims to break down stereotypes and support capacity building of new and emerging Pan-Asian filmmakers in British Columbia and Alberta, empowering the next generation of Pan-Asian storytellers.
The program will offer tailored mentorships and foster industry connections to help ensure sustainable growth within these underrepresented communities. We acknowledge that there is a history of racialized creators being excluded from the film industry via systemic racism, and the lack of representation brings to light inequities in the community. Filmmaking is a form of storytelling utilizing technology to reach a broader audience, and the story of Canada has been primarily told through the lens of white settlers and has either excluded or misrepresented Asian perspectives and identities. Through this Edition we hope to honour and celebrate storytellers from all over the Asian and Pacific Islander diasporas, and are seeking fictional and non-fictional stories led and created by the community.
How did the Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition come about?
While the term “Pan-Asian” is emerging in a Canadian context, our aim is to include as many voices from people who identify with these communities as we can. We are committed to creating focused STORYHIVE Editions that address the disparity in funding available to equity-seeking groups, and endeavor to create expansive categories in which people feel represented.
STORYHIVE is grateful for the strategic guidance of Bakau Consulting in supporting the development of this Edition. Bakau Consulting conducted a full audit of our programs, conducting one-on-one interviews with various STORYHIVE content creators from Asian diaspora and STORYHIVE team members to get their input. Additionally, STORYHIVE is collaborating closely with members of Pan-Asian communities to ensure authentic representation throughout the program. The advisory committee, selection committee, external moderators and mentors for this Edition will be composed entirely of individuals who identify as being from the Asian or Pacific Islander communities.
Who is eligible for the Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition?
The Project Lead must self-identify as being of Asian or part-Asian heritage which includes individuals with ancestral origins in East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia and Western Asia.
The Project Lead must be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada residing in BC or Alberta.
NOTE: To those awaiting approvals for permanent residency as of the submission deadline are ineligible for funding.
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.
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 8, 2025.
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 Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition Submission Rules.
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.
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.
NOTE: 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
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 Pan-Asian Storyteller 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.
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.
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.
When will I know if my application is successful?
Successful projects for the Pan-Asian Storytellers Edition will be announced on September 10, 2025.
What happens if my application is successful?
Each successful Pan-Asian Storyteller 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 21, 2025, Oct 28, 2025, Nov 4, 2025 and Jan 6, 2026. The info sessions are a vital part of the STORYHIVE process for all Project Leads.
How long does my STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition 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 Pan-Asian Storytellers Edition project have to be completed?
If provided a grant, teams must be able to deliver the Bonus Content on or before Mar 16, 2026 5:00PM PT and the Main Program on or before Nov 30, 2026, 5:00PM PT.
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 Pan-Asian Storyteller 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 Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition Main Program will officially launch on TELUS Optik TV®, Stream+® and the STORYHIVE YouTube channel in 2027 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 Pan-Asian Storyteller 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 a question that is not answered in the FAQs, please email the STORYHIVE team at storyhive@telus.com.
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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