Nunavut Filmmakers Funding — Story Telling Fund

The Story Telling Fund provides vital financial support to production companies and individual filmmakers in Nunavut, encouraging artistic expression and skill development across various platforms from concept to completion. With funding up to $7,500, this grant serves as a versatile tool for creators to develop projects not currently supported by existing NFDC programs.

The Story Telling Fund, established by Nunavut Film Development Corporation, is a pivotal initiative aimed at bolstering the creative landscape in Nunavut. This fund is designed to provide financial assistance to both production companies and individual filmmakers, enabling them to engage in a wide range of activities that span the creative spectrum. From project development to online marketing, this grant covers a diverse array of creative endeavors not currently catered to by NFDC’s other funding programs. Through this fund, Nunavut Film hopes to foster a thriving environment for local creators, allowing them to hone their skills and share their unique stories. Nunavut, known for its rich cultural heritage and storytelling traditions, has a burgeoning film and media industry. The Story Telling Fund is a crucial part in supporting this industry by offering up to $7,500 per project. Additionally, it provides an Inuktut Language Incentive of up to $1,500, encouraging filmmakers to incorporate and preserve the indigenous language in their work. An additional $250 is available for internet uploading and downloading costs, acknowledging the remote nature of production in the region and the importance of digital tools in modern storytelling. The fund supports a variety of activities, offering flexibility to applicants who wish to engage in different phases of content creation. These include project development, scriptwriting, and editing—essential stages for bringing any story to life. The grant also supports digital media activities like animation, online marketing, and podcasts which are becoming increasingly important in reaching modern audiences. Importantly, it welcomes applications for innovative forms of storytelling like micro-films and vlogging, reflecting the evolving nature of media consumption. It's important to note that this fund is dedicated to projects that are ineligible for other Nunavut Film funding programs, providing a unique opportunity for those whose creative visions might otherwise remain unrealized. It’s also designed to encourage collaborations between emerging filmmakers and experienced producers. Mentorship is a key aspect of the fund’s ethos, aiming to nurture talent by providing guidance through the creative process and assistance with the completion of final accounting for expenses. Eligibility for the Story Telling Fund is straightforward yet specific, ensuring that the fund supports those who are most likely to benefit from it and contribute meaningfully to Nunavut’s cultural tapestry. Production companies must be incorporated in accordance with the laws of the Territory of Nunavut or Canada, with a primary focus on film, television, or digital media content. Individual applicants must be residents of Nunavut, committed to contributing professionally to the industry, and maintaining good standing with Nunavut Film. Funding is disbursed in a structured manner to ensure accountability and progression through the project’s lifecycle. Seventy-five percent of the contribution is provided upon executing a Contribution Agreement, allowing recipients to commence work on their creative projects. The remaining twenty-five percent is payable upon completion and delivery of the project, alongside final accounting to Nunavut Film. This structured disbursement ensures that projects are seen through to completion and that creators adhere to their proposed plans and budgets. The application process for the Story Telling Fund involves a creative evaluation conducted by an Independent Review Committee. This committee reserves the right to request further information, and assesses submissions on a first-come, first-served basis until the allocated budget is exhausted. This approach ensures a dynamic and competitive selection process, encouraging applicants to articulate their visions clearly and efficiently. By facilitating a broad range of creative activities and supporting both individuals and companies, the Story Telling Fund plays a vital role in enhancing the artistic landscape of Nunavut. It not only fuels the local film and media industry but also ensures that the voices of Nunavummiut are heard on national and international stages. Crafted to adapt to the unique needs of creators in this region, this grant is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to bridge cultures and communities.