Portland to host filmmaker workshop with Sundance Institute

Mayor Keith Wilson is proud to announce that Portland will host The Bridge: From Oregon to Industry, a new filmmaker workshop, with the Sundance Institute this May. The in-person intensive program, run by the Portland Events and Film Office at Prosper Portland and Oregon Film, will bring filmmakers across Oregon together with national and internationally recognized experts from Friday, May 8, to Sunday, May 10. Sundance Collab, Sundance Institute's world-renowned online learning program, will host an online portion of the program.

Designed for mid-career filmmakers (directors, producers and writers), the Bridge will delve into the business of filmmaking, helping artists navigate legal, marketing, sales and distribution considerations and providing them with necessary resources and tools to create and share their work. Participants will also receive one-on-one mentor support and access to curated content from Sundance Collab for one year.

"Both Portland and Oregon are home to some of the country's most creative and talented independent filmmakers," Wilson said. "The Bridge will provide participants with the tools they need to compete at a national and international level. In addition, we know the film industry annually contributes nearly $200 million to Oregon's economy, affecting close to 5,000 jobs, so an investment in our local talent will strengthen Oregon's position within the industry and pay dividends for years to come."

The Bridge is sponsored by the Portland Events and Film Officeat Prosper Portland and Oregon Film, the Governor's Office of Film and Video.

"For many filmmakers, getting into a festival like the Sundance Film Festival, Tribeca or SXSW is only half the battle," said Elyse Taylor-Liburd, film industry project manager at Prosper Portland. "Smaller markets like Portland often have less access to resources such as distribution, sales and public relations support. By bringing industry experts here, we are providing local film professionals with the access and knowledge they need to complete projects, reach wider audiences and connect to new opportunities."

Applications are now open. Eligible Oregon filmmakers are encouraged to apply. Visit: https://collab.sundance.org/The-Bridge-From-Oregon-to-Industry to learn more.