Deadline: 27-Feb-2026
The Podcast Pitch, a joint initiative with Sheffield DocFest, supports the creation of original audio documentary projects with funding, mentorship, and industry exposure. Winners receive production awards (£15,000 for first place, £5,000 for runner-up), while finalists gain festival access, travel support, and guidance from audio industry professionals, with projects requiring English-language production and taster audio submissions.
Overview
The Podcast Pitch is a global initiative developed in partnership with Sheffield DocFest, designed to support innovative audio documentary storytelling. It provides financial awards, professional development, and access to industry experts for creators of episodic or single-episode podcasts.
The program encourages projects that:
-
Place contributors at the centre of their own stories
-
Demonstrate strong narrative structure and audience awareness
-
Experiment creatively with sound design and technology
-
Reveal new, unexpected, or emotionally resonant insights
Purpose and Objectives
The initiative aims to:
-
Promote authorial storytelling and curiosity in factual audio
-
Support both experienced and emerging producers
-
Reflect the growth of solo and episodic podcast listening
-
Encourage creative experimentation in narrative and sound
Eligibility
Applicants must:
-
Be audio producers from anywhere in the world
-
Produce content in English
-
Submit up to four minutes of original taster audio
-
Have an executive producer attached to the project
-
Attend Sheffield DocFest for final pitching if selected
Awards can be paid to a registered production company or directly to a sole producer.
Awards and Support
-
Winner: £15,000 production award
-
Runner-up: £5,000 production award
-
Six finalists:
-
Free pass to Sheffield Documentary Festival (June 2026)
-
Three nights’ accommodation
-
Travel contribution of up to £400 per project
-
Access to leading industry professionals and commissioners
-
Scope and Focus Areas
Projects should focus on:
-
Engagement: keeping listeners invested and emotionally connected
-
Storytelling: strong structure, narrative clarity, and independent voice
-
Innovation: experimentation with sound, technology, and production methods
-
Insight: revealing something new, emotionally resonant, or unexpected about the world
Both episodic series and single-episode podcasts are eligible. First-time creators are welcome but not required.
How to Apply
-
Develop a podcast proposal (episodic or single episode)
-
Prepare up to four minutes of original taster audio
-
Secure an executive producer to attach to the project
-
Submit your application through the Podcast Pitch portal
-
If shortlisted, attend Sheffield DocFest in June 2026 to pitch in person
-
Await final judging decisions (final and binding)
Tips for a Strong Application
-
Highlight narrative clarity and audience engagement
-
Demonstrate originality and creativity in sound design
-
Emphasize the story’s emotional or informative impact
-
Ensure your taster audio reflects the tone and style of your proposed project
-
Secure a reputable executive producer to strengthen the proposal
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Submitting projects not in English
-
Failing to provide a taster audio clip
-
Not securing an executive producer
-
Overlooking the requirement to attend the final pitch at Sheffield DocFest
-
Proposing podcasts without narrative structure or audience engagement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply?
Audio producers from anywhere in the world producing content in English.
What types of podcasts are eligible?
Both episodic series and single-episode projects are eligible.
What awards are available?
£?
Yes, all applicants must have an executive producer attached.
What is required for the application?
A detailed project proposal and up to four minutes of original taster audio.
When is the final pitch?
Finalists will pitch in person at Sheffield DocFest in June 2026.
Can first-time creators apply?
Yes, first-time creators are welcome, though the program is also open to experienced producers.
Conclusion
The Podcast Pitch offers creators a unique opportunity to develop innovative audio documentaries with professional guidance, industry exposure, and production funding. By combining creative storytelling, sound experimentation, and audience-focused narratives, applicants can bring original, impactful podcasts to a global stage.
For more information, visit The Whickers.
