Sundance Collab and Merrell have announced a three-year global storytelling partnership built around original short-form films. The first group includes six filmmakers selected from more than 1,200 proposals submitted from 90 countries, according to Sundance Institute.
Each selected filmmaker is due to receive $20,000 to make a 60- to 90-second film, along with mentorship, education and feedback during a three-month production program. The announced cohort is Sharon Liese, Ciril Jazbec, Jean Luke Miraflor, Laura Basil Duncan, Gabriella Canal and Quinne Larsen.
The organizations say the filmmakers will participate in a live panel at the 2027 Sundance Film Festival, where Merrell will be an official footwear partner. Because this is brand-supported work, the useful editorial distinction is clear: it is a funded creative program and festival partnership, not part of the festival’s independent selection process.