Call for applications for IMPACT MENTORSHIP
Many documentarians create a film to increase awareness and understanding of a pressing issue or story by spotlighting, investigating, or humanizing what is happening, in hopes that their films will make a difference. At the core of impact work is a collection of best practices that take into account how a film will be used as a tool for social change once it is complete.
Story Money Impact (SMI) is offering 10 impact coaching hours to three Canadian documentary films (20–90 minutes in length) by underrepresented creators that are in the later development phases of their projects, so that they can be better positioned for impact upon completion. We previously encouraged applicants in early stage development, but now want to work with folks who are more solidly grounded in what they are proposing to do.
Deadline: April 15, 2026 by 11:59pm Pacific Time
How does it work? SMI will host five x 2 hour virtual sessions with three film teams with documentaries in later development on the following dates:
Tuesday, May 26th, 1:00-3:00 Pacific Time
Wednesday, May 27th, 1:00-3:00 Pacific Time
Thursday, May 28th, 1:00-3:00 Pacific Time
Wednesday, June 3rd, 1:00-3:00 Pacific Time
Thursday, June 4th, 1:00-3:00 Pacific Time
(These sessions times are not open to change, so please check your availability before you apply.)
This cohort will participate in all five sessions together, fostering a group learning environment.
Lead Instructor, Tamo Campos, will introduce the basics of how films are used for change and support the discussion and development of impact goals for each project. There will be a focus on crafting impactful narratives, non-extractive filmmaking, and issue mapping during this process.
SMI requires that a minimum of two team members from each film project be present at each session.
Please note there is a $450 honourarium per film team for the time required to participate in this mentorship.
Eligibility:
Applicants must be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
Filmmaker teams must be majority comprised of creators from underrepresented groups
Eligible filmmakers can be early career or established who want to learn about impact
Projects must not have started formal principle photography (there is some flexibility here; we know that docs get filmed based on real life, not a controlled schedule!)
Content must be current and forward looking towards a better understanding of an issue
Projects and film teams that have applied in the past are welcome to apply again
Who we are: SMI works with courageous and documentary films so that they can be used for systemic change in communities beyond traditional film distribution. SMI supports impact strategy development, education, and partnerships relevant to the documentary’s issue area. This work increases awareness and leads to thought leadership, action and empowerment of individuals and communities creating a powerful catalyst for change.