About

The National Geographic Society is seeking proposals from a diverse community of storytellers to explore and illuminate the interconnected ecological, cultural and scientific narratives rooted in the Mekong River Basin.

The opportunity centers on themes of human–wildlife coexistence, biodiversity documentation, the link between culture and nature, resilience and preservation of ancestral traditions, water stewardship, urban–river relationships, and diaspora communities’ ecological connections.

They aim to support creative projects across all mediums that bring ancestral knowledge and contemporary scientific understanding into broader awareness. The initiative encourages deeply specific and place-based storytelling that reflects unique local experiences, whether from a single village, an urban canal, or a distinct stretch of the river.

Applicants can request funding of up to $20,000, with selected projects allowed to utilize the funds over a two-year period. Proposals must include a clear and well-justified budget along with a defined plan for evaluating the impact of the project.

Successful applicants will become part of their Explorer Community, gaining access to future funding opportunities, training programs, software tools, and additional resources. Applications must be submitted through their online portal in English, and each applicant may submit only one proposal as a project lead.

Eligibility

Eligibility prioritizes storytellers who have lived in or have substantial experience working within the communities they aim to represent, or who can demonstrate strong collaborative relationships with local stakeholders. Applicants must also provide a portfolio showcasing previous media work, such as a website, as part of their submission.

Post Date: April 15, 2026