STORYHIVE 2026 THREE-PART DOCUSERIES EDITION SUBMISSION RULES & FAQs
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 14, 2026.
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
Mar 31-May 14, 2026: Edition Open for Submissions
Apr 7, 2026: Ask Me Anything: Online
May 14, 2026: Intake closes at 23:59 PT
Sep 16, 2026: Grant Recipients Announced
Oct 16, 2026: All Grant Agreements Signed
Oct 20, 2026: Info Session #1 (online) - Welcome to STORYHIVE (for all Project Leads)
Oct 27, 2026: Info Session #2 (online) - The Business of Screen Media (for all Project Leads)
Nov 3, 2026: Info Session #3 (online) - Bonus Content (for all Project Leads)
Nov 4, 2026: Bonus Content (minimum 30 minutes) Production Starts
Jan 12, 2027: Info Session #4 - Meet Your Mentor (for all Project Leads)
Mar 15, 2027: Bonus Content delivery (no rough or fine cuts needed)
Mar 31, 2027: Final Draft Treatment for Main Program completed
Apr 1, 2027: Main Program Production starts
Aug 23, 2027: Main Program Rough Cut delivery
Oct 4, 2027: Main Program First Fine Cut delivery
Oct 25, 2027: Main Program Second Fine Cut delivery
Nov 15, 2027: Main Program STORYHIVE Approval Cut delivery
Dec 13, 2027: Main Program Final Delivery of Project to TELUS STORYHIVE
Dec 5, 2028: Official Edition Launch on TELUS Optik TV and Stream+
Mar 6, 2029: Official Edition Launch on STORYHIVE YouTube channel
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Each STORYHIVE 2026 Three-Part Docuseries Edition Project will consist of a three episode locally reflective documentary Main Program (minimum 15 minutes per episode) plus two episodes of locally reflective interview-based Bonus Content (minimum 15 minutes per episode) . 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 14, 2026 at 11:59PM PT;
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, Cochrane, Crossfield, De Winton, Dead Man's Flats, Didsbury, Exshaw, Fairview, Heritage Pointe, High River, Lakeview, Langdon, Milo, Okotoks, Shepard, Strathmore
Edmonton
Acheson, Alberta Beach, Ardrossan, Beaumont, Brazeau County, Camrose, Devon, Drayton Valley, Edmonton, Edmonton Garrison, Edson, Enoch Cree Nation IR, Evansburg, Fort Saskatchewan, Gwynne, Hinton, Jackfish Lake, Leduc, Marlboro, Morinville, Namao, Nisku, Onoway, Parkland County, Peers, Poplar Ridge, Sangudo, Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove, St Albert, Stony Plain, Stony Plain IR 135, Strathcona County, Sunset Point, Tomahawk, Val Quentin, Vegreville, Wabamun, Westlock, Wetaskiwin, Whitecourt, Wildwood
Fort McMurray
Draper, Fort McKay, Fort McKay IR 174, Fort McMurray, Fort McMurray IR 174d
Grande Prairie
Clairmont, Debolt, Donnelly, Driftpile, Eagle Sham, Falher, Faust, Girouxville, Grande Prairie, High Prairie, Joussard, Kinuso, Lesser Slave River 124 (MD), McLennan, Nampa, Peace River, Slave Lake, Swan River 150E, Widewater
Lethbridge
Coalhurst, Lethbridge
Lloydminster
Medicine Hat
Dunmore, Medicine Hat, Redcliff
Red Deer
Blackfalds, Innisfail, Lacombe, Linn Valley, Penhold, Ponoka, Red Deer, Springbrook, Sylvan Lake
BRITISH COLUMBIA:
Cranbrook
Dawson Creek
Fort St John
Kamloops
Heffley Creek, Kamloops
Kelowna
Creston, Kelowna, Peachland, West Creston, West Kelowna, Westbank
Nanaimo
Black Creek, Bowser, Brilliant, Campbell River, Cassidy, Chemainus, Cobble Hill, Comox, Courtenay, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Cumberland, Denman Island, Duncan, Gabriola Island, 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, Royston, Saltair, Shawnigan Lake, Texada Island, Union Bay
Penticton
Faulder, Fruitvale, Gallagher Lake, Greenwood, Kaleden, Montrose, Naramata, Oasis, Okanagan Falls, Oliver, Osoyoos, Penticton, Penticton IR 2, Rivervale, Rossland, Summerland, Trail, Warfield
Prince George
Beaverley, Lheidli T'Enneh, Prince George
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, Coquitlam, Cultus Lake, Davis Bay, Delta, Fort Langley, Furry Creek, Garden Bay, Garibaldi Highlands, Gibsons, Granthams Landing, Halfmoon Bay, Harrison Hot Springs, 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 IR 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, Deep Creek IR 2, 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 Rogers (including Shaw and any Shaw subsidiaries) 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;
not be a recipient of Canada Media Fund (CMF) funding for their 2026 STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition project;
Be prepared to:
Submit their Project for review on the following dates:
Mar 15, 2027 - Bonus Content Delivery - 2 episodes (no rough cuts or fine cuts needed);
Mar 31, 2027 - Final Treatment for 3 episode Main Program;
Aug 23, 2027 - Main Program Rough Cut delivery - 3 episodes;
Oct 4, 2027 - Main Program First Fine Cut delivery - 3 episodes;
Oct 25, 2027 - Main Program Second Fine Cut delivery- 3 episodes; and
Nov 15, 2027 - Main Program STORYHIVE Approval Cut - 3 episodes;
Dec 13, 2027 - Main Program Final Delivery - 3 episodes.
Complete technical delivery of the Project on or before 5:00 pm PT on Dec 13, 2027 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 three-part documentary series (also known as a docuseries);
Include a three episode locally reflective documentary Main Program (minimum 15 minutes per episode) plus two episodes of locally reflective interview-based Bonus Content (minimum 15 minutes per episode);
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 and it must be about characters, topics or events that are relevant to and reflective of your community of residence.
The narrative of the Project is reflective of the Project Lead’s community of residence; and.
The story synopsis (description) has to explicitly centre on and identify the main subject(s) as community members living in the Project Lead’s community of residence.
Present fair and balanced views, with all stakeholders on an issue fairly represented;
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, false or misleading factual content, or depictions of violence, smoking, drug use or illegal activity of any kind;
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;
Be in English or be able to be subtitled or versioned into English;
Not have been shot more than 15% prior to November 4, 2026 or not just be 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);
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:
Fictional projects including mockumentaries
Animation (can include animated elements, but no fully animated projects)
Video Podcasts
Music Videos
Lifestyle TV, Reality TV, “How to” Documentaries and Docusoaps
User Generated Content (UGC)
Vertical Format Content
News and Reporting (current event style coverage)
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.
TRAINING & MENTORSHIP
We want to set up each Project Lead for success. Project Leads must attend the following 4 virtual info sessions:
Creator Info Session 1 (Welcome to STORYHIVE) - Oct 20, 2026
Topics include working with STORYHIVE, deadlines and deliverables, content guidelines, Content Creator Kit
Creator Info Session 2 (The Business of Screen Media 101) - Oct 27, 2026
Topics include copyright, releases, clearances, permits, licenses, deal memos, working with guilds and unions, scheduling and managing cash flow
Creator Info Session 3 (Bonus Content) - Nov 3, 2026
Topics include interview basics, gear considerations, basic lighting, camera and sound set ups, bonus content delivery, main program prep
Creator Info Session 4 (Meet your Mentor Workshop) - Jan 12, 2027
Topics include intro to the National Screen institute, how the mentorship works, intro to your mentor, keynote presentation from a STORYHIVE alumni
In partnership with the National Screen Institute, each Project Lead is paired with an experienced documentary filmmaker who will support them throughout the Main Program production. The mentor will review, advise and provide feedback through each stage of production, including, but not limited to: Treatment, Scheduling & Budget, Prep, Production, Post-production (Rough Cut / Fine Cut #1 / Fine Cut #2), Marketing & Distribution plans.
Project Leads should be prepared to meet (virtually or in person) with their mentor approximately 1 hour per week throughout the Main program production.
Additionally, all Project Leads will have ongoing support from their STORYHIVE Program Manager throughout the program duration.
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 14, 2026
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 14, 2026.
• 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.
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.
SELECTION ANNOUNCEMENT
Successful Projects will be announced Sep 16, 2026. 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.
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 Three-Part Docuseries Edition?
TELUS STORYHIVE’s first-ever Three-Part Docuseries Edition offers new and emerging filmmakers the opportunity to create a three-episode documentary series that tells a story meaningful to their local community. Participants will be able to develop their episodic storytelling skills, explore a subject in greater depth and share their vision with their community.
Each STORYHIVE 2026 Three-Part Docuseries Edition Project will consist of a three episode locally reflective documentary Main Program (minimum 15 minutes per episode) plus two episodes of locally reflective interview-based Bonus Content (minimum 15 minutes per episode).
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 Three-Part Docuseries Edition?
STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition begins in October 2026 with your first online Content Creator Info Session and ends in November 2027 with the final delivery deadline for your completed three episode 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 their 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 Three-Part Docuseries Edition?
Applications open at 12:00PM noon PT March 31, 2026.
When is the deadline to apply for the STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition?
The deadline to apply for the STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition is on May 14, 2026, 11:59PM PT.
NOTE: The application portal closes promptly at 11:59 pm on May 14, 2026. 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.
Can I apply for the STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition if I have received STORYHIVE funding before?
Yes, you are welcome to apply if you still meet all of the eligibility requirements and are not already in a current STORYHIVE program in which you will be submitting your Final Delivery after intake closes for the Three-Part Docuseries Edition (May 14, 2026). You are not permitted to be a Project Lead in 2 different STORYHIVE programs at the same time.
What will each selected project receive for the STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition?
Each successful project will receive a $20,000 production grant (available to BC and Alberta residents only) from TELUS to produce a three episode documentary Main Program (minimum 15 minutes per episode) plus two episodes of supporting Bonus Content (minimum 15 minutes per episode). 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.
What happens if I am unable to complete and deliver my project?
If you are unable to deliver all of the required project deliverables (with the correct specs) as outlined in your grant agreement, you will be required to return your grant funds to TELUS.
How will successful projects be selected for the STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition?
Each project will go through a rigorous review process by the STORYHIVE Team, external moderators and a selection committee who will determine which projects are selected to receive funding. When making their selections, the selection committee will consider a number of factors including, but not limited to, eligibility, the strength of 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 Three-Part Docuseries 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)
Logline (text field, maximum 220 characters)
Synopsis (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Projected Runtime (enter total combined minutes for the 3 episodes of your Main Program only; minimum 45 minutes (3 x 15 minutes minimum)
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
Project Lead Experience (dropdown)
Production Experience (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Eligibility Requirement (check box)
How did you hear about this program? (dropdown menu)
Draft Treatment that includes an overview of your project, detailed episode breakdowns and potential or confirmed participants to be featured in the film (PDF upload; maximum 5MB)
How are you going to tell your story? (text field, maximum 1000 characters)
How will your program be unique from others that are centred around the same topic?
How do you plan to ensure a fair and balanced perspective, such as including experts, conducting preliminary research, or leveraging subject matter expertise (SME)
Why You? (text field, maximum 1000 characters)
Community relevancy (text field, maximum 1000 characters)
Inclusion Statement (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Key Role Requirements (check box)
Locations (select yes or no with text fields)
Potential Locations (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Additional Languages (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Accessibility Accommodations (text field, maximum 500 characters)
Project Plans (text input, 800 characters)
Have you applied for or received funding from the CMF for this project?
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 I include in my draft treatment?
Your draft treatment should focus on your Main Program (your docuseries). You may include information on your Bonus Content but it is not required.
In addition to an overall description of your docuseries, please also include a separate short synopsis (description) for each of the 3 episodes of your series.
Please note that if you are selected for funding, you will have time to further develop your treatment with the assistance of your mentor before shooting your Main Program.
Here are some questions to consider when creating 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 might the interview subjects evolve over 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.
At least 80% of the budget must be spent in the Project Lead’s community of residence. The maximum amount for travel expenses cannot be more than 10% of your total budget.
CLICK HERE to see a sample budget.
Line items and amounts could be different for your project.
NOTE: You are only providing a draft budget. Both line items and amounts may be revised during production.
What is the Bonus Content?
For the STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition, in addition to your Main Program, you must create and deliver 2 episodes of Bonus Content. Each episode must be a minimum of 15 minutes in length.
The Bonus Content must be locally reflective and related to your Main Program, and it must adhere to a G or PG rating.
Each episode of your Bonus Content can be one of the following:
A single long interview with the Project Lead (you), one of your documentary subjects, a local subject matter expert, a key creative, other crew member, or other local community member.
A compilation of shorter interviews with the Project Lead (you), documentary subjects, local subject matter experts, key creatives, other crew, or other local community members.
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.
The first part of your STORYHIVE journey will focus on enhancing your documentary filmmaking skills and doing research and development for your Main Program. You will be creating 2 episodes of Bonus Content that will give you the opportunity to pre-interview potential subjects, hone your interview skills, and perfect your camera, lighting, and sound set-ups. The Bonus Content is also another way to engage your audience with your project and support your Main Program.
The Bonus Content can be raw unedited interviews. It is designed to support research and development purposes, but you may also end up with some great footage that you will want to use in your Main Program.
Your Bonus Content will appear alongside your Main Program for a period of 3 months when we launch this edition on TELUS Optik TV so think of what might interest viewers who have just watched your Main Program (your Main Program will continue to be available on TELUS Optik TV after the 3 months). Your Bonus Content will not appear alongside your Main Program on the STORYHIVE YouTube channel. Only your Main Program will be uploaded to the STORYHIVE YouTube channel.
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 three episode locally reflective documentary series (minimum 15 minutes per episode) and it must adhere to a G or PG rating.
What kinds of stories is STORYHIVE looking to fund in the STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition?
We are looking for compelling local stories including stories about community builders, health and wellness, local mysteries and lore, innovative local technology, environment, agriculture, and beyond. Pitch any local documentary idea that you are passionate about.
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 Rules before submitting their pitch. We also recommend you check out How do I create a strong STORYHIVE application?
What types of projects are NOT eligible for the STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries 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:
Fictional projects including mockumentaries
Music videos
Animation
Lifestyle TV, Reality TV, “How to” Documentaries and Docusoaps
User Generated Content (UGC)
Video podcasts
Vertical format content
News and Reporting
Slow television, or any programming genre without sound, action, or people (bird cams, yule logs, traffic cameras, etc.)
Video games and other applications
Websites
Talk shows
Religious content
Political content
Projects based outside of British Columbia or Alberta
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.
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.
Why is STORYHIVE launching a Three-Part Docuseries Edition?
TELUS STORYHIVE is launching its first-ever Three-Part Docuseries Edition to give new and emerging documentary filmmakers the opportunity to create a three-episode documentary series that tells a story meaningful to their local community. If you are looking to develop your episodic storytelling skills and explore a subject in greater depth, this edition provides the support and platform to bring your vision to life and share it with your community.
Who is eligible for the Three-Part Docuseries Edition?
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 14, 2026.
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 Three-Part Docuseries 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 subjects 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 - 2 episodes (minimum 15 minutes per episode). Final Delivery (including artwork and reports)
Main Program - 3 episodes (minimum 15 minutes per episode). Rough Cut, 2 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 Main Program throughout production.
The mentor will, to the best of the mentor’s abilities, work with the Project Lead to provide production mentorship and guidance on their Main Program.
The Mentor will be responsible for the following:
Be available to the Project Lead via email/phone/Zoom throughout the Main Program production to discuss the individual needs of the project (approximately one hour per week) and offer advice and assistance as required.
Review, provide feedback and advise the Project Lead through each stage of the Main Program production process, including, but not limited to:
Treatment
Production Schedule and production budget
Post-production: Rough Cut / Fine Cut #1 / Fine Cut #2
Marketing and distribution plans
Use best efforts to enrich the Project Lead's experience and connect them with resources and resource people within the industry, particularly in areas where the Project Lead’s expertise may be lacking.
Adhere to STORYHIVE’s Code of Conduct.
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.
Do I retain ownership of my project?
When you're funded through a STORYHIVE program, you keep 100% ownership of your intellectual property. That means your project is yours to share, grow and monetize, now and in the future.
Under our non-exclusive licensing agreement, your project will appear on TELUS STORYHIVE platforms for up to 10 years, ensuring it reaches audiences while you retain all rights. We're here to support your creative journey with production funding, training, mentorship and distribution, while you stay in full control of your content.
Can we apply as a team for the STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries 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 Three-Part Docuseries Edition will be announced on September 16, 2026.
What happens if my application is successful?
Each successful Three-Part Docuseries Edition 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 20, 2026, Oct 27, 2026, Nov 3, 2026 and Jan 12, 2027. The info sessions are a vital part of the STORYHIVE process for all Project Leads.
How long does my STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition program have to be?
The Main Program must consist of 3 episodes, each with a minimum runtime of 15 minutes, including any credits.
The Bonus Content must consist of 2 episodes, each with a minimum runtime of 15 minutes, including any credits.
When does the STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition project have to be completed?
If provided a grant, a Project Lead must be able to deliver the Bonus Content on or before Mar 15, 2026 5:00PM PT and the Main Program on or before Dec 13, 2027, 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 Program 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 Three-Part Docuseries Edition project be on TELUS Optik TV®, Stream+® and online?
The Bonus Content and Main Program must be delivered to STORYHIVE by the deadlines indicated in your Grant Agreement. The Bonus Content and Main Program will then be encoded and uploaded to TELUS Optik TV®, typically within a few weeks of their delivery. Projects funded by STORYHIVE must be delivered and uploaded to TELUS Optik TV within the same broadcast year they are funded.
The STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries Edition Main Program and Bonus Content will officially launch on TELUS Optik TV® and Stream+® on December 5, 2028 and on the STORYHIVE YouTube channel on March 6, 2029. The official launch is approximately a year after Final Delivery in order to give Project Leads the opportunity, if they wish, to pursue a festival run and other avenues for distribution prior to the official launch.
Can I launch my STORYHIVE Three-Part Docuseries 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 continuing 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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