Sundance Collab x Merrell Brand-Supported Storytelling Program
The Merrell Brand-Supported Storytelling Program in collaboration with Sundance Collab has launched a global program to redefine how brand-supported narratives are created and distributed.
Six filmmakers from around the world have been selected to create their own original, 60-90 second film designed specifically for vertical social platforms. Their mission is to explore Merrell’s core belief, It Starts OutsideTM, for a world that is increasingly lived indoors. From our homes to our screens, we are more disconnected than ever. The outside is the antidote. It is where we find reset and reconnection to culture, community, perspective, and even ourselves. It is Merrell’s purpose as a brand to share the simple power of the outside with everyone. We are seeking filmmakers who share that belief and mission and want to inspire the world to do the same.
Our selected filmmakers engage in an intensive online program over three days in October designed to learn about collaborating with a brand. The filmmakers then receive $20K to make and deliver their greenlit concept.
Built from Merrell’s 2026 repositioning and It Starts OutsideTM brand platform, the core creative territory is not ‘outdoor adventure’ in the traditional sense. The strongest stories will show what changed in a person because they went outside, whether it’s emotionally, physically, mentally, creatively, spiritually, psychologically, or other. This does not necessarily equate to a final achievement.
To learn more about the Merrell It Starts OutsideTM campaign, please visit the website: https://www.merrell.com/US/en/it-starts-outside/
Merrell Brand-Supported Storytelling Program
Yes! We will be back in 2027. Check out our website and subscribe to our newsletter for the most up-to-date information and any future announcements!
Applications for the 2026 cycle are now closed. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to create a free Sundance Collab account for updates.
No, there is no fee to apply.
This program is open to artists from anywhere in the world. English proficiency is a requirement as the program will be conducted in English, but the film can be in another language with subtitles. The work sample provided in the application should also have English subtitles.
This will be a virtual (online) program. The meetings will take place online over Zoom and will not be held in person.
Merrell product will be provided but should not be the focus of story.
We require a work sample (as Director) for this application.
We often do have opportunities in our courses for co-creators, but we are not accepting co-directors for this opportunity.
We are only accepting one application per person.
Yes, college/university students are eligible to apply for this program.
The filmmakers will retain the copyright for their films. However, Merrell will reserve some rights to promote the projects and the partnership for up to three years.
The final films, cut-downs, stills, and any incremental production from Merrell will be used to communicate the “It Starts Outside” brand platform globally. Your story will come to life through global paid ads, owned social, Merrell.com, earned media, and more.
Merrell will be amplifying your story and featuring each director through global owned, earned, and paid media channels.
Sundance Collab provides accommodations and support services to participants with disabilities. Accommodations and services are designed to meet the needs of each participant. Please email us at accessibility@sundance.org to arrange for services.
Questions? Please contact collab_courses@sundance.org