2025 MAKE Thesis Grant Launched To Support Next Generation of Animators

Getting funding to get started in animation can be extremely challenging. Luckily, there are some organisations that offer grants and funding initiatives. MAKE a creative studio known for impactful animation and original storytelling has officially opened applications for the 2025 MAKE Animation Thesis Grant. The annual program offers senior animation students funding, production resources and promotional visibility to help bring their thesis films to life.

Originally launched in 2024, the grant was created to champion emerging animation talent by directly funding thesis projects. Open worldwide to students in BFA, BA, MFA, and MA programs in animation, digital art, or related fields, the grant is awarded based on treatment presentation and storytelling vision.

The MAKE Thesis Grant provides both financial backing and industry visibility, designed to elevate student films by removing barriers and amplifying creative voices. Winners receive $3,000 for first place, $2,000 for second place, and $1,000 for third place. In addition to the cash prize, but also make professional refrences, optional creative guidance and ongoing exposure through MAKE's social media channels, blog and press coverage.

“We’re not just funding student films, 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. 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,” said Danny Robashkin, Founder and Creative Director at MAKE.

Last year's Winners

• First Place – Alienated! by Andrew Erbskorn. A comedic 2D short about a skittish alien defending his dome-shaped home from giant purple monsters.
• Second Place – Ümit by Amina UmirzhanovaA poetic, mythic story about hope and light in a  world of darkness.
• Third Place – Praying for Love by Sofia Tonin.A darkly funny tale of a praying mantis searching for romance — and accidentally eating all her boyfriends.

“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. I was just sitting there with a big grin on my face, seeing my film come together exactly the way I envisioned it,” Andrew Erbskorn, director of Alienated! and MAKE Thesis Grant recipient.

How to Apply

Applications for the 2025 MAKE Thesis Grant are open from August 14 through November 4, 2025. Eligible applicants must be senior animation students actively working on their thesis film. Full 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 revealed on November 15, 2025.