The Elevation Fund
The Elevation Fund is The Outsiders’ long-term commitment to supporting the next generation of outdoor creatives.
We reinvest 1% of our annual profit directly back into emerging creatives - providing project funding, mentorship, gear, grants, and industry opportunities that create lasting impact.
The Fund is dedicated to fostering creative growth, mentorship, and contributing to strengthening the sustainability of the outdoor creative industry.
Launch Press Release - July 10 2025
Talent Development Weekend pilot
As part of the Elevation Fund, we run dedicated Talent Development Weekends, giving early to mid-career creatives the chance to step into real-world commercial briefs, workshops, and commercial mentorship.
Our 2025 pilot launch program in Wānaka, New Zealand - in partnership with Nikon and supported by Film Queenstown Lakes - brought together emerging photographers, filmmakers, and storytellers. Over three days, participants received hands-on mentorship from leading creatives including Justin Mayers (WestBank Media), Sam Levings, and The Outsiders founder Michelle Bates.
The weekend included:
Workshops and industry mentorship
A team-based content challenge built around brand briefs
The chance to win $3,000 cash for their submission into the content challenge and extended commercial support through FY25/26
New program announcements will be shared via our Instagram.
Program Success Press Release - August 28 2025
Pictured below: Talent Development Weekend Pilot - Participants and Crew at the Content Residency property in Wānaka (Lake Hawea)
