2026 Rural Regeneration Storytelling Project – Application

Climate Land Leaders, in collaboration with a working group of climate and agriculture organizations invite  all Rural Land Stewards in the Midwest, USA to apply for a mini-grant of $4,000 to support their storytelling and outreach efforts.

The goal of this initiative is to empower rural voices, amplify local experiences, and highlight the essential role of land stewardship in addressing climate challenges.

  Purpose of the Grant

The mini-grant program is designed to:

• Provide financial support for rural storytellers.
• Encourage narratives that connect land, community, and climate resilience.
• Offer technical and communication assistance to amplify your story.
• Strengthen networks of rural leaders working toward ecological and social regeneration.

  Storytelling Themes

Applicants are invited to root their projects in one or more of the following themes:

1. Reciprocity

• Definition: Exploring the give-and-take between people, land, animals, and generations.
• Focus Questions:
  • How do you care for the land, and how does the land care for you?
  • What practices in your community embody reciprocity?
• Examples:
  • Sharing intergenerational farming traditions.
  • Highlighting community rituals that honor land and water.

2. Resilience

• Definition: Building strength and adaptability in the face of intersecting crises.
• Focus Questions:
  • How are you restoring soil, water, and ecological health?
  • How are you rebuilding community networks disrupted by extraction or colonization?
• Examples:
  • Initiatives to support neighbors harmed by unjust systems.
  • Practical projects that ensure future generations can thrive.

3. Love as Stewardship

• Definition: Demonstrating how love for land and community becomes a force for protection and action.
• Focus Questions:
  • What do you love most about your land or place?
  • How are you nurturing and defending what matters most?
• Examples:
  • Hosting a photo exhibit showcasing beloved landscapes.
  • Organizing a community gathering to celebrate shared values.

  Grant Details

Successful applicants will receive:

• $3,500 as a storytelling salary, recognizing your time, energy, and knowledge.
• $500 for project expenses such as:
  • Travel
  • Food for in-person events
  • Materials for exhibits or gatherings

  Timeline

Projects will be implemented between March and November 2026. Key milestones include:

• March: Virtual project kick-off (60 minutes).
• Monthly: 1:1 planning meetings/check-ins (30 minutes each).
• 2–3 times during the project: Virtual workshops with fellow storytellers (90 minutes each).
  • Topics may include media training and storytelling techniques.
• November: Virtual wrap-up and feedback session (60 minutes).

  Commitments

If accepted, participants agree to:

• Attend scheduled meetings and workshops.
• Produce at least three storytelling outputs, such as:
  • Media coverage
  • Published op-eds
  • Hosting a community gathering
  • Creating a podcast
  • Organizing a photo exhibit
• Dedicate approximately 5 hours per month to the project.

  Support Provided

Participants will receive:

• Access to current science on agriculture and climate impacts.
• Guidance on effective climate communication.
• Feedback on written pieces and messaging.
• Support in reaching local and regional media outlets.
• Amplification of stories through partner organizations’ platforms.

  Why Apply?

This program is more than a grant, it is an opportunity to:

• Share your unique perspective as a rural land steward.
• Connect with a cohort of storytellers across the Midwest.
• Strengthen your community’s voice in climate and agricultural conversations.
• Contribute to a collective narrative of resilience, reciprocity, and love.

  Application Process

• Applications must be submitted by January 23, 2026.
• Click “Next” in the form to provide details about yourself and your project.
• Ensure your project aligns with at least one of the storytelling themes.
• Prepare to demonstrate how your story will inspire, educate, and mobilize.

 

The 2026 Rural Regeneration Storytelling Project is a chance to honor the deep connections between land, people, and community. By applying, you join a movement of storytellers who are shaping a more resilient and loving future for rural America. Apply now.