Sundance Collab and TikTok are offering five filmmakers $5,000 each to develop a short-form vertical series

Sundance Collab has partnered with TikTok to run a micro-series challenge aimed at filmmakers who want to build short-form, vertical storytelling projects. The programme is not a one-off prize draw: five selected finalists each receive $5,000 in funding, structured professional development support from the Sundance organisation, and a direct opportunity to pitch their series concept to TikTok's commissioning team. For independent creators who work in the vertical format, that combination of cash, mentorship infrastructure, and industry access is a meaningful package.

One important note for readers of this database: the challenge explicitly prohibits generative AI in submitted work. The contest listing flags "No generative AI allowed," which means projects produced with AI-generated visuals, dialogue, or other AI-assisted creative components will be ineligible. If your current practice involves generative tools as part of your filmmaking process, this particular call is not designed for you. That said, many creators who follow AI film developments also work in traditional production, and the Sundance name carries real weight on a CV.

What you submit

The challenge asks filmmakers to develop a short-form vertical series with a focus on storytelling. The listing describes a pitch-and-development format rather than a completed episode submission, though the full brief and submission requirements are detailed on the official entry page at Indie Shorts Mag. Applicants must be aged 18 or older and may submit only one entry per individual. Entry is free.

Prize structure

Five finalists each receive:

- $5,000 in direct funding
- Professional development support from Sundance Collab
- A pitch opportunity with TikTok

There is no single grand prize winner taking all the money; the $5,000 is awarded to each of the five finalists, making the total prize pool $25,000 across the cohort.

Terms worth reading

The listing published on AI Film Contests does not reproduce the full terms and conditions. Before submitting, check the official entry page for details on intellectual property, any rights TikTok or Sundance Collab retain over pitched concepts, and what obligations come with the professional development programme. Given that a pitch to TikTok is part of the prize, it is worth understanding whether submitting a concept constitutes any form of disclosure that affects your ability to take the project elsewhere.

The deadline is 9 September 2026. No cutoff time is published, so submit at least a full day in advance to avoid any technical difficulties.

Source: AI Film Contests, Sundance Collab x TikTok Micro-Series Challenge