Mental Health Short Film Grant – Voices with Impact

 Mental Health Short Film Grant – Voices with Impact

Voices with Impact invites filmmakers worldwide to submit proposals for short films exploring Coping, Connection, and Community through the lens of mental health.

Deadline

09 September 2025

Grant Value

• $7,500 production grant per filmmaker

• Mentorship and production support

• Distribution via educational programs in collaboration with postsecondary institutions across North America

Purpose & Scope

The grant seeks:

• Authentic, emotional storytelling highlighting mental health themes

• Creative freedom: All genres and formats are eligible (drama, comedy, horror, documentary, animation, experimental, sci-fi, westerns, etc.)

• Fresh perspectives: Underrepresented voices, culturally sensitive storytelling, and innovative narratives

• Encourages stories with unresolved endings and long-term relevance

Eligibility

• Open to filmmakers worldwide

• Excludes AAUW board members, employees, consultants, interns, immediate families, and prior AAUW fellowship or grant recipients (except Community Action Grants/local awards)

• Applicants must provide three links to previous works (film or other creative samples), viewable online (preferably Vimeo)

Evaluation Criteria

Submissions are assessed based on:

1. Artistic originality – Unique and compelling storytelling

2. Accurate mental health representation – Reflective of real experiences and issues

3. Storytelling skill – Narrative clarity, character development, pacing, and engagement

4. Cultural awareness – Sensitivity to diverse experiences and contexts

5. Stigma-reducing potential – Promotes dialogue, understanding, and empathy

6. Feasibility – Ability to deliver a high-quality 5-minute film within the grant resources

7. Professional capacity – Experience and readiness to complete the project

Recommended Approach

• Highlight how your film connects to coping, community, or connection in mental health

• Demonstrate cultural awareness and authenticity

• Show how the film could stimulate conversation or reflection

• Include links to prior work that showcase storytelling ability and creative vision

• Keep the proposal concise, clear, and visually compelling

This grant is ideal for filmmakers aiming to combine social impact and creative artistry to shed light on mental health experiences. The support, mentorship, and distribution opportunities make it especially valuable for emerging and mid-career storytellers looking to reach educational audiences.