STORY.LAB: Climate Edition

Climate solutions can be difficult to explain. Founders are often translating technical ideas, complex systems, and an uncertain funding landscape into a story that needs to make sense quickly. A strong pitch does more than condense information. It helps people understand why an idea matters, why it matters now, and why they should want to hear more. That is where STORY.LAB comes in. STORY.LAB is an interactive workshop where founders and changemakers put their ideas to the test, hear how others interpret them, and learn how to communicate with greater clarity and confidence. Over two hours, participants will practice active listening, adapt their message for different audiences, pitch in small groups, and receive constructive feedback in real time. No slide deck. No polished presentation required. Bring the idea you are working on, even if it is still taking shape. Workshop Structure 4:00–4:10 p.m. Arrival and introductions4:10–4:20 p.m. Welcome and workshop overview4:20–4:40 p.m. “Pitch Telephone” active-listening exercise4:40–4:50 p.m. Audience-card exercise and pitch adaptation4:50–5:20 p.m. Small-group pitches and peer feedback5:20–5:55 p.m. Full-group discussion, Q&A, and live pitch feedback5:55–6:00 p.m. Closing remarks and next steps6:00–7:00 p.m. Optional informal networking What Will Participants Receive? Each attendee will receive a digital Pitching Survival Guide with: A framework for building audience-specific pitches Prompts for developing 30- and 60-second versions Tools for pitch practice and feedback Curated funding and business-development resources Access to an online community for continued connection and support About the Facilitators Amanda Gann (Founder & Co-facilitator) is a creative director, climate researcher, and visual storyteller dedicated to advancing personal and planetary wellness. From curating an international climate festival in India during her Fulbright to documenting ecological systems in the mangroves of Bangladesh, her practice connects design, education, and climate action. Amanda spent eight years supporting an educational nonprofit and has led creative communications work for the Environmental Youth Council and Environmental Defense Fund. Guided by curiosity and care, she helps mission-driven organizations turn complex ideas into clear, human stories that build trust and inspire action. https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandagann/ Michael Henry (Co-facilitator) is a former People correspondent, HuffPost columnist, technologist, and startup entrepreneur. As CMO, he helped lead a blockchain company through its public listing before shifting his focus to the low-carbon economy. An alumnus of DTID, a global climate nonprofit focused on emerging technology, policy, and international standards, Michael now leads Offset CRBN, an AI infrastructure company that verifies environmental data for net-zero markets. He brings a journalist’s instinct for finding clarity in complex ideas and shaping them into compelling narratives that attract investment and build lasting partnerships. https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-henry-new-york/