Welcome to the Storytellathon FAQ!
Storytellathon
Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about the initiative, how to participate, and what to expect. Whether you’re a first-time storyteller or a returning contributor, this section will help guide you through the process and clarify everything you need to know.
What is the Storytellathon?
The Storytellathon is an international initiative promoted by the Romualdo Del Bianco Foundation – Life Beyond Tourism®, aimed at enhancing cultural heritage through the creation of original storytelling-based itineraries. It’s a call to creatively tell the stories of places, promoting conscious, meaningful, and inclusive travel.
What is the Storytellathon?
The Storytellathon is an international initiative promoted by the Romualdo Del Bianco Foundation – Life Beyond Tourism®, aimed at enhancing cultural heritage through the creation of original storytelling-based itineraries. It’s a call to creatively tell the stories of places, promoting conscious, meaningful, and inclusive travel.
Who can participate?
High school and university students, young creatives, and school or university groups, ideally accompanied by a tutor, professor, or mentor. Participation is open to both individuals and teams.
Do I need a team to participate?
No — you can participate either individually or as part of a team.
Working in a team is encouraged, especially for developing more articulated ideas, but individual participation is also welcome.
Can one institution submit more than one team?
No — you can participate either individually or as part of a team.
Working in a team is encouraged, especially for developing more articulated ideas, but individual participation is also welcome.
What do I need to create?
A 5–10-minute video pitch (MP4 format, max 300 MB) presenting your proposed cultural itinerary, including:
- The overall concept of the itinerary
- The selected locations and the reasons for your choices
- The narrative approach and storytelling concept
- The visitor experience you aim to create
- Visual elements supporting your idea
What types of itineraries are accepted?
Two types of itineraries can be developed:
- Geographic itinerary – focused on a specific area (such as a neighborhood, city, or region), connecting different locations through a cohesive narrative.
- Thematic itinerary – centered on a specific theme (such as music, cuisine, craftsmanship, or cultural traditions), linking locations even if geographically distant.
What makes a project stand out?
Projects that stand out are those that clearly connect territory, people, and heritage through a strong and original narrative.
Clarity of the idea, creativity, and the ability to create a meaningful experience for visitors are key elements.
How do I participate?
After completing your registration, you will receive a dedicated link with instructions to upload your files.
Please submit your video presentation in English, together with all required materials (images, map, description, and bio), by the indicated deadline.
Does the itinerary need to be already implemented?
No — you are not required to present a finished project, but a well-structured concept.
The Storytellathon is designed to help bring your creative idea to life and give it visibility.
What are the rewards and opportunities?
Selected participants will have the opportunity to present their project in Florence within an international context, engaging with students, professionals, and institutions from different countries.
All selected contributions will gain visibility through the initiative and be featured in the official communication channels and outputs.
A number of selected teams will be invited to Florence for the final presentation, offering a unique opportunity to experience the city, connect with an international network, and further develop their ideas through exchange and feedback.
How are projects selected?
Projects are selected based on their originality, clarity, relevance to the theme, and their ability to connect storytelling with territory and heritage.
The evaluation also considers the potential impact and the coherence of the proposed experience.
What happens after the Storytellathon?
Selected projects will gain visibility through the initiative and may be included in official outputs and future activities.
The Storytellathon is also an opportunity to further develop your idea through exchange, feedback, and potential future collaborations.
What are the participation fees?
Participation fees vary depending on the type of application (individual or team) and the registration period (early bird or standard).
Detailed information on fees is available in the official call.
Important dates
- Registration deadline: August 31, 2026
- Submission of materials: after registration, by the indicated deadline
- Event dates: March 11–12, 2027 (Florence)
Where do I register?
Registration is available through the dedicated page on our website. Once completed, you will receive further instructions by email.
Need help?
Write an mail to workshops@lifebeyondtourism.org