Aspiring animators, take note: Applications are now open for the 2025 MAKE Animation Thesis Grant. This annual program offers senior animation students crucial funding, production resources, and vital promotional visibility to bring their thesis films to life exactly as they envision them.
Grant Supports Emerging Animation Talent Globally
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Launched in 2024, the grant champions emerging animation talent by directly funding original animated thesis projects. It’s open globally to senior-level students pursuing degrees in animation, digital art, or related fields. Submissions are judged on treatment presentation and storytelling vision.
The grant removes barriers and amplifies bold creative voices. Winners receive direct cash awards: $3,000 for first place, $2,000 for second, and $1,000 for third. Beyond the prize money, recipients gain professional references, optional creative guidance, and ongoing exposure through MAKE’s platforms.
“We’re not just funding student films,” said Danny Robashkin, founder and creative director at MAKE. “We’re giving emerging animators the tools, confidence, and visibility to bring their stories to life and step into the industry with work they’re proud of.”
Robashkin added, “This award is open internationally, and I’m continually inspired by the creativity we see from around the world. The voices we help amplify today will be the ones defining the next era of animation.”
2024 Highlights Showcased Global Creativity
Last year’s winners exemplified the diverse and original talent in student animation worldwide.
First Place: “Alienated!” by Andrew Erbskorn
This comedic 2D short features a skittish alien protecting its dome-shaped home from giant purple monsters.
Second Place: “ümit” by Amina Umizhanova
A poetic, mythic story exploring hope and light in a world shrouded in darkness.
Third Place: “Praying for Love” by Sofia Tonin
A darkly funny tale about a praying mantis searching for romance, with a twist of accidental dining.
Andrew Erbskorn, director of “Alienated!,” shared his positive experience: “What was even more rewarding for me was sitting in on calls every Monday morning with Steve Horner, our composer, who you guys (MAKE) recommended. Once I got rolling on the music, that’s when everything went from inspiration to reality.”
Erbskorn continued, “I was just sitting there with a big grin on my face, seeing my film come together exactly the way I envisioned it.”
How to Apply for the 2025 Grant
Applications for the 2025 MAKE Animation Thesis Grant are open from August 14 through November 4, 2025.
Eligible applicants must be senior animation students actively working on their thesis films. Comprehensive eligibility requirements, application steps, and submission forms are available at makevisual.com/thesis-grant-info.
Winners will be selected by the MAKE panel of judges and announced on November 15, 2025.
