The Story Within Her: Scholarship Application

🌻 Please review all scholarship details below

This application is for one full scholarship to attend The Story Within Her, a screenwriting retreat for women set in a beautiful mountain retreat, taking place November 7–9, 2025, in Lake Arrowhead, California.

There is no cost to apply. This scholarship was created to support a woman screenwriter whose voice is ready to be nurtured with sisterhood, inspiration, and the creative space to grow.

✨ About the Mentor

The retreat includes personal mentorship from Kay Ross, Founder of Owl Echo Entertainment.

Kay is a dynamic storyteller and industry advocate known for empowering creatives. Originally from the D.C. theater scene, Kay moved to L.A. to pursue storytelling in film and TV. She has helped hundreds of writers take their screenplays to the next level through her signature #StoryMath™ method. Kay is known for offering more than just notes, she builds clear, encouraging, and actionable plans for her clients.

With nearly 100 blogs on networking, filmmaking, and screenwriting under her belt, Kay also spent over five years as Stage 32’s Community Manager, Writers’ Room Producer, and co-host of The Coverage Report. She now focuses on developing her own projects as a writer, producer, and director, while continuing to collaborate with passionate creatives. Kay also gives back through her podcast Biscuits with Bosses—a TED LASSO-style conversation with industry leaders—available on Owl Echo Entertainment’s YouTube channel.

✨ What the Scholarship Covers

✔️ 3 days, 2 nights at a beautiful mountain retreat
✔️ Three nourishing meals per day
✔️ Workshops and guided writing sessions
✔️ Real-time coaching and feedback on your story and materials
✔️ Space to connect, recharge, and reflect in a stunning setting
✔️ A supportive environment to share your work and receive meaningful insight

🧡 Who Should Apply

This open call is for women screenwriters of all backgrounds and experience levels.

You don’t need an agent, an MFA, or a list of fancy credits.

You just need heart, a story that’s ready to be told, and the courage to show up for it.

⏳ Timeline

Applications Open: September 5, 2025
Deadline to Apply: September 25, 2025 at 2:00 PM PST
Recipient Announced: September 29, 2025

📝 How to Apply

Submit your application using the form below. You’ll be asked to share:

A personal statement about who you are and why this retreat feels meaningful right now (up to 500 words)
A logline and/or brief summary of a script or project you’re currently working on

🧳 FAQ

Can writing teams apply?

Yes! Teams are welcome to apply, but please note that only one spot will be covered under the scholarship. The other teammate would need to register separately if they’d like to attend.

Is travel included in the scholarship?

No, travel to and from California is not included. The scholarship covers your retreat stay, meals, workshops, and mentorship.

Do I need prior screenwriting experience?

Not at all. Writers of all levels are welcome, from those just starting their first script to more experienced screenwriters looking to refine their work.

When will I know if I’ve been selected?

The scholarship recipient will be notified by email on September 29, 2025.

Can I still attend if I don’t win?

Absolutely. All applicants will receive a special discount if they’d like to join us.

Apply Here

Let your voice shine. We’re not looking for perfection; we’re looking for heart, clarity, and passion.