Applications are now open for the 2026 Doc Society Climate Story Fund, an international funding opportunity supporting independent nonfiction storytellers who are creating powerful narratives around climate, environmental justice, and social transformation.

The fund provides grants of up to USD 125,000, along with strategic guidance and long-term support to help filmmakers and audio creators strengthen both their productions and their impact campaigns.

About the Climate Story Fund

The Climate Story Fund supports creative nonfiction projects that inspire audiences to imagine a more just, sustainable future while encouraging meaningful action on climate-related issues.

Rather than focusing on a single theme, the 2026 funding round welcomes a wide range of stories connected to climate and environmental challenges. Projects may explore topics such as biodiversity, Indigenous knowledge, food systems, migration, conservation, agriculture, housing, technology, social justice, or community resilience.

The fund is particularly interested in projects that amplify underrepresented voices and present fresh perspectives capable of engaging diverse audiences.

Eligible Project Types

The programme supports:

• Documentary films of any length
• Nonfiction documentary series
• Radio documentaries
• Nonfiction podcasts

Applications are accepted from projects in late production through rough cut, as well as completed works seeking funding for impact campaigns.

Short documentary films are especially encouraged to apply and may submit applications from the late development stage onward.

Project Requirements

Eligible projects should:

• Be independently created and artistically controlled
• Demonstrate a clear social impact vision
• Address climate-related themes from original and compelling perspectives
• Include an impact strategy designed to engage target audiences
• Have secured support from at least one institutional funder beyond the production company
• Be capable of completing production or implementing impact activities within one year of receiving funding

Projects involving Indigenous communities or collective storytelling models are also welcomed, provided applicants clearly explain their collaborative approach and decision-making process.

Application Process

Applications begin with an online Expression of Interest (EOI). Projects that meet the eligibility requirements and demonstrate strong creative and impact potential may then be invited to submit a full application.

Applicants will typically be required to provide:

• Completed online application
• Work sample or visual materials appropriate to the project's stage
• Project budget in U.S. dollars
• Information on the project's impact strategy
• Additional supporting materials if shortlisted

Directors and producers of selected projects should also be available to participate in the programme's virtual Impact Lab.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on several factors, including:

• Originality and quality of storytelling
• Relevance to climate-related issues
• Potential to inspire public engagement and positive change
• Ethical approach to storytelling and community representation
• Strength of the proposed impact strategy
• Capacity of the team to successfully complete the project within the required timeframe

The selection process also values projects that reach audiences beyond traditional environmental circles by presenting climate stories through diverse themes, emotions, and lived experiences.

The deadline to submit an Expression of Interest for the 2026 Doc Society Climate Story Fund is 6 July 2026.