OUR PROGRAMS

Short Film Production Grant

A black and white photo of a film production scene showing a person sitting in a chair with hands folded, a person standing to the left holding a clapperboard, and professional video equipment including a camera and monitor capturing the scene.

Applications due October 30th, 2026

The Narrative Nest Short Film Grant awards $7,000CAD + mentorship to support the production of an original short film of one of our Screenwriting Retreat alumni. The grant is designed to reduce financial barriers for emerging filmmakers and uncover underrepresented stories. Funding may be used towards eligible production and post-production expenses. 

If you’re ready to get your next short film completed — this grant is for you!

The Narrative Nest 2026 Short Film Production Grant is funded by DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society.

APPLY HERE!

Grant Highlights

  • Production Funding

    Bring your story to life with cash support to see your project go from script to screen.

  • Professional Mentorship

    One-on-one mentorship from an industry professional to guide you from pre-production to post.

  • Inclusivity & Creative Freedom

    All filmmaking levels are welcome to apply and all genres will be considered.

  • Barrier-Free Access

    Cost free application process that puts a focus on the artist vs using grant writing language.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • All Narrative Nest Screenwriting Retreat alumni are eligible to apply.

  • We only fund short film scripts under 13 pages. Any genre is accepted!

  • You don’t need to have previous filmmaking experience to apply however, your story must be feasible with the grant amount given and you must deliver a complete film within 1 year of receiving the grant.

  • No, however you will be adjudicated on script quality so make sure to submit a script you feel confident with.

  • The grant winner will be selected by an external jury. Applications will be assessed on script quality, potential impact and budget feasibility.

  • If you have funding from another organization, please contact thenarrativenestinfo@gmail.com to discuss eligibility. We may allow you to apply if you still own the rights to your film.

  • No. You will still own the rights to your film however, The Narrative Nest logo must appear in the beginning of your film and credited as an executive producer in the end credits.

  • All grant applications are reviewed by real people — no AI is involved in the selection process. The chosen grant winner will be required to make a film made by artists!

  • All Narrative Nest team members & jurors sign a non-disclosure agreement before reviewing applications.

Let’s create together!

APPLICATIONS DUE OCTOBER 30TH, 2026!