Google and Range Media Partners have teamed up with the non-profit organization XPrize to launch a $3.5 million international contest aimed at inspiring positive, forward-thinking science fiction storytelling. The initiative, part of Google and Range’s 100 Zeros program, seeks to highlight narratives that explore the potential of a world in transition.
“While cautionary tales have always played a vital role on screen, this competition creates space for a different, equally essential kind of storytelling – one that explores the complex optimism of a world in transition,” said Peter Diamandis, founder and executive chairman of XPrize.
Anousheh Ansari, CEO of XPrize, added, “At XPrize, we believe optimism is a catalyst for innovation. By bringing the best minds together, removing barriers for innovation, and fueling creativity, we have the power to spark the next great idea that could change the future.”
The competition’s grand prize includes $2.5 million in production funding and a $100,000 cash award, along with full production support from Range and creative technology from Google to develop the concept into a feature film. Four additional finalists will each receive $100,000, with another $500,000 in additional prizes to be announced later.
Filmmakers interested in participating must submit a three-minute trailer or short film that depicts a hopeful vision of the future. Five finalists will be invited to present their projects live at the Moonshot Gathering in Los Angeles this September, where a panel of judges from the worlds of entertainment, technology, and science will select the winner.
The competition signals a shift in how creative industries are exploring the possibilities of storytelling in a technologically advanced future, emphasizing optimism alongside caution in an era increasingly shaped by AI and innovation.