Big Stories Deserve Big Rewards
Win scholarships, tech prizes, and national recognition just for sharing the story that makes your hometown unforgettable.
Awards & Recognition
When you tell a powerful story, it deserves to be seen—and celebrated. The America’s Hometown Stories contest honors top student filmmakers with scholarships, tech prizes, and national recognition. Whether you place nationally or regionally, your work could inspire communities and be featured as part of the America 250 celebrations.
National Scholarship Award
The top three videos in the nation will receive major scholarship prizes:
1st Place – $10,000 college scholarship
2nd Place – $5,000 college scholarship
3rd Place – $2,500 college scholarship
These winners will be recognized across HelloNation’s platforms and featured as part of the official contest showcase.
Regional Finalists
Top 10 submissions per U.S. region (Northeast, Midwest, South, West) will be named Regional Finalists.
(such as a professional tripod, microphone, or video editing software license)
An official Certificate of Recognition
Featured placement on the contest website and HelloNation’s social media channels
Honorable Mentions
We’re recognizing even more powerful voices from across the country.Honorable Mention recipients will receive:
A digital certificate of achievement
A personalized social media shoutout highlighting their work
(see examples from past contests like StudentCam on Facebook)