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 and pitch deck provided in the application should also have English subtitles.

Will we meet in-person for the Intensive?

This will be a virtual (online) program. The meetings will take place online over Zoom and will not be held in person.

Will I be permitted to attend the Sundance Film Festival?

Yes. If selected, please plan to join the Merrell team at the Sundance Film Festival in 2027. Hotel accommodations (1 room per director) will be secured on your behalf.

Do I need to include Merrell products?

Merrell product will be provided but should not be the focus of story.

What kinds of work samples are acceptable?

Any moving-image work sample is acceptable (short film, documentary, branded content, animation, music video, experimental, etc.). Please submit as a Vimeo or YouTube link. If your video is password-protected, be sure to include the password in the designated field. If your sample is not in English, please provide English subtitles.

If it’s optional to submit a pitch deck, will it count against me if I don’t submit one?

No, the reviewers are instructed that this should not count against you. It is optional.

What kind of link would I submit for the pitch deck?

Any service is acceptable (Adobe, Google Drive, Canva, etc.). Please submit a link and if the site is password-protected, be sure to include the password in the designated field.

What if I don’t have a completed work sample to submit?

We require a work sample (as Director) for this application.

Is there a word count for the questions on the application?

Yes. See application for word-count limits.

Can I apply with a co-creator/team?

We often do have opportunities in our courses for co-creators, but we are not accepting co-directors for this opportunity.

Can I submit more than one application?

We are only accepting one application per person.

Additional Materials?

We reserve the right to follow up for additional information during the review period.

Are university students allowed to apply?

Yes, college/university students are eligible to apply for this program.

Can I revise my application after submission?

Due to the volume of applications submitted, we cannot accept any requests for revisions.

Who will own the rights to the film?

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.

How will Merrell use my film?

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.

Will I be featured by Merrell?

Merrell will be amplifying your story and featuring each director through global owned, earned, and paid media channels.

If I am selected, what happens next?

The Sundance Collab team will be in contact to share additional details about the Intensive and production timeline. Selected filmmakers will be given an agreement that further defines the partnership.

Will there be another submission cycle?

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!