TikTok is partnering with the Sundance Institute to launch a new program to help creators develop scripted micro-series, reflecting the growing popularity of short-form episodic storytelling on social media.
The new initiative, called “From Script to Screens: Writing Your Micro-Series,” will be offered through Sundance Collab, the Sundance Institute’s online education platform. The four-week course is designed to teach creators how to write and develop serialized stories specifically for mobile-first audiences.
According to TikTok and Sundance, participants will learn how to build compelling characters, structure short episodes, map out season arcs and pitch their projects. The program is free for selected applicants and is open globally, with applications running through July 1.
Focused on the growing micro-series format
Unlike traditional television or film, micro-series are designed as short, vertically oriented episodes that typically run between 60 and 120 seconds and form a larger serialized narrative. The course aims to help writers adapt storytelling techniques to this emerging format.
TikTok’s Head of Entertainment Partnerships, Dawn Yang, said the platform has become a place where serialized storytelling can quickly find audiences through community discovery. Meanwhile, Sundance Collab described the format as its own distinct creative medium rather than simply a shorter version of film or television.
TikTok’s expansion on scripted content
The partnership follows several recent initiatives by TikTok to expand scripted entertainment on the platform.
In recent years, the company introduced Series, a feature that allows creators to package premium long-form content, and later launched dedicated hubs for mini dramas and serialized storytelling. The popularity of short-form episodic content has also encouraged platforms to invest more heavily in creator-led fiction rather than exclusively lifestyle or entertainment videos.
By collaborating with the Sundance Institute, TikTok is extending that strategy into creator education, giving aspiring writers access to industry guidance and professional development.