Creative storytellers, filmmakers, photographers, writers and artists have an opportunity to receive funding through the Ocean Culture 2027 Storytelling Grants. The programme welcomes applicants aged 18 and above from any country, offering grants of £1,000, £3,000 and £5,000 to develop impactful stories about the ocean.

The initiative supports creative projects that inspire people to appreciate the ocean, understand marine issues and take action to protect marine environments. Applications close on 1 December 2026. OFCY +1

1. Opportunity Overview

The Ocean Culture Storytelling Grants are an international funding initiative designed to support creators who use storytelling to strengthen people’s connection with the ocean.

Now in its fourth year, the programme has supported storytelling projects across more than 30 countries. It provides financial assistance, a platform and support to help selected creators bring their ideas to life and reach wider audiences.

The 2027 programme welcomes applications from individuals and teams working in different creative disciplines.

2. Grant Location and Work Arrangement

• Location: Worldwide.
• Programme type: International creative storytelling grants.
• Work arrangement: Independent project development.
• Eligible applicants: Individuals and creative teams.
• Creative disciplines: Film, photography, writing, illustration, audio, music and other storytelling formats.

Applicants can develop their projects in their own countries and communities. The programme is particularly interested in local voices and stories that have not received enough attention.

There is no requirement to relocate to another country to participate. OFCY +1

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3. Grant Funding and Benefits

Successful applicants can receive one of three funding amounts, depending on the size, scope and production requirements of their proposed projects.

Grant category	Funding
Micro Grant	£1,000
Mid Grant	£3,000
Full Grant	£5,000

The funding categories are designed to accommodate projects with different financial requirements.

Additional benefits include:

• Financial support to develop creative projects.
• Access to Ocean Culture’s storytelling platform.
• Opportunities to reach international audiences.
• Support for raising awareness about ocean conservation.
• Opportunities to contribute to global environmental discussions.
• Connection with an international community of ocean storytellers.

The £1,000 grant is intended for smaller projects, while the £3,000 and £5,000 grants accommodate projects with higher production costs, including travel, permits, specialist equipment and extended production timelines.

Important: This is a project funding opportunity, not salaried employment. No monthly salary or employment contract is advertised. OFCY +1

4. Storytelling Themes and Project Categories

Applicants are encouraged to submit original storytelling proposals under one of three programme themes.

Inspire

This category supports stories that create emotional connections with the ocean through beauty, personal experiences, exploration and inspiring encounters.

Possible formats include photography, films, essays and illustrations.

Educate

This category focuses on communicating knowledge about ocean science, marine species, coastal communities, ocean history and environmental issues.

Applicants can submit documentaries, written features, podcasts and educational photography projects.

Protect

This category supports stories highlighting threats to marine environments and showcasing solutions that encourage meaningful action.

Projects could explore marine pollution, habitat restoration, conservation policies and community-led environmental initiatives.

Applicants should select the theme that best reflects their proposed storytelling project. OFCY +1

5. Qualifications and Experience Requirements

The programme is open to creative individuals with an interest in developing meaningful ocean-related stories.

Applicants should demonstrate:

• A compelling and original storytelling idea.
• An understanding of the selected storytelling theme.
• The ability to communicate ideas through an appropriate creative format.
• A clear explanation of the project’s intended audience and impact.
• A realistic project timeline and budget.
• An interest in ocean awareness, education or conservation.

Previous professional experience is not listed as a mandatory requirement in the published eligibility information. Applicants should nevertheless provide examples of previous creative work to demonstrate their storytelling abilities.

Both emerging and experienced creatives are encouraged to explore the opportunity.

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6. Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Ocean Culture 2027 Storytelling Grants, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be based in any country worldwide.
• Become members of the Ocean Culture community. Membership is free.
• Have a storytelling project connected to the ocean.
• Apply individually or as part of a creative team.

The programme accepts applicants from Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America and other regions worldwide.

Importantly, applicants do not need to be professional filmmakers or established journalists. The programme welcomes different creative backgrounds and storytelling approaches. OFCY +1

7. Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following materials:

1. Video pitch (1–2 minutes)

The video should introduce the applicant and explain:

• Their name and location.
• Where the proposed project will take place.
• What the story is about and whom it supports.
• The selected theme: Inspire, Educate or Protect.
• Why the story matters.
• How the story will be presented.
• The expected impact or change.

2. Project proposal (PDF)

Prepare a short PDF of no more than two pages outlining:

• Project budget breakdown.
• Proposed implementation timeline.
• Expected impact.

3. Previous creative work

Include links or PDF examples of previous projects to demonstrate your creative abilities.

Applicants should also review the official programme guidance and frequently asked questions before submitting. OFCY

8. How to Apply

Interested applicants should follow these steps:

• Visit the official Ocean Culture website.
• Access the 2027 Storytelling Grants application page.
• Join the Ocean Culture community for free.
• Review the eligibility criteria and application requirements.
• Prepare your video pitch, project PDF and previous work samples.
• Complete and submit your application through the official application platform.

Ensure that your proposal clearly explains how your story will inspire, educate or encourage action to protect the ocean.

9. Application Deadline

Deadline: 1 December 2026

• Applications opened: 2 November 2026.
• Application deadline: 1 December 2026, midnight GMT.
• Expected announcement of successful applicants: By 31 January 2027.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their proposals early to avoid last-minute technical difficulties. OFCY

10. Official Application Link

Apply here: Ocean Culture 2027 Storytelling Grants – Official Application Page

Final Thoughts

The Ocean Culture 2027 Storytelling Grants offer an exciting opportunity for creative individuals worldwide to secure funding for projects that communicate the importance of protecting the ocean.

With grants of up to £5,000, global eligibility and opportunities for different creative disciplines, the programme is worth exploring for filmmakers, photographers, writers, artists and emerging storytellers.

Applicants with original ideas and a clear vision for creating meaningful environmental impact should prepare their proposals and apply before 1 December 2026.

Article prepared for Career Global Connect.