The Merrell- Sundance Storytelling Program
Opportunity type: Open Call
For: Filmmakers
Deadline: 18/08/26
Rewards: $20,000 + mentorship
Location Eligibility: Worldwide
About this opportunity
Merrell, in collaboration with Sundance Collab, is launching a global storytelling programme seeking filmmakers to create original short films based on Merrell’s “It Starts Outside” brand platform. The programme focuses on emotionally grounded stories about the power of being outside and how stepping outdoors can inspire connection, renewal, and personal transformation.
Selected filmmakers will develop a 60–90 second vertical film designed for social platforms. The programme is looking for stories centred on real people, communities, and human experiences, where the outdoors acts as a catalyst for change rather than simply being the focus of the story.
The selected filmmakers will take part in an online intensive focused on collaborating with a brand before producing their approved concepts between October and December 2026.
Rewards
- Five selected filmmakers will receive $20,000 USD to create and deliver their film projects.
- Production funding includes creation of:
- A 60–90 second vertical film
- Shorter cutdowns (:06, :15, :30)
- Still images
- Participation in the Merrell Brand-Supported Storytelling Intensive (online) from 30 September – 2 October 2026.
- Online programme sessions from September – December 2026.
- Selected filmmakers may attend the Sundance Film Festival 2027, with hotel accommodation provided (one room per director).
Eligibility
- Open to filmmakers worldwide.
- Applicants must be 18 years or older at the time of submission.
- Applications must be submitted in English.
- Final films can be in any language but must include English subtitles.
- Applicants must have a free Sundance Collab account.
- Only individual applicants are accepted; joint, group, team, or collaborative submissions are not eligible.
- Submitted work must be original and created by the applicant.
- No AI-generated content is permitted in submissions or consumer-facing materials.
Entry Fee
Free
How to Apply
Apply using the link: Merrell Brand-Supported Storytelling Program
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