TikTok Launches Microdrama Development Program with Sundance Institute
TikTok has announced a new microdrama development program in partnership with Sundance Institute. The four-week live online course will focus on scriptwriting for micro-series, aiming to equip creators with tools and industry guidance. The program comes as microdramas generated $1.3 billion in the U.S. in 2025, and follows TikTok's launch of a Minis section and the PineDrama app. Applications are open globally via the Sundance Collab website.
TikTok is deepening its push into mini-dramas with a new program designed to train creators in the art of short, episodic storytelling. The initiative, launched in collaboration with Sundance Institute, will offer guidance on writing micro-series and explore the narrative themes that have made these bite-sized soap operas a growing hit with audiences.
According to TikTok, the program will “support the next generation of creator-led short-form storytelling for digital audiences.” The company described the course as a four-week live online experience focused on scriptwriting for micro-series, “designed to equip creators with the tools, frameworks, and industry guidance to develop serialized, story-driven content.”
TikTok said participants will be selected based on their existing work on the platform and their demonstrated interest in microdrama development. The company also highlighted Sundance Institute’s reputation in the industry for nurturing emerging talent and supporting independent filmmakers.
The serialized, soap-opera-style format of microdramas has proven particularly popular with TikTok’s user base. Business Insider reported earlier this year that the format generated $1.3 billion in the U.S. in 2025, with the majority of revenue coming from direct viewer payments.
TikTok has been actively building on that momentum. The company introduced a dedicated Minis section within its app last year, and in early 2026 launched a standalone mini-drama app called PineDrama in the U.S. and Brazil.
As attention spans continue to shrink, the shift toward two-minute episodic storytelling may represent the next evolution of entertainment. These short-form series could hook a new generation of consumers with high drama delivered in quick, engaging bursts.
This new training program from TikTok could serve as a valuable initiative, not only to nurture creative talent but also to open additional revenue pathways for skilled storytellers. Applications for the micro-drama training are now open globally via the Sundance Collab website.