How to Raise Money for a Movie
- 1). Put your business plan in writing. No one will give you money to make a movie if it sounds like your film-making idea amounts to nothing more than a wish pinned to a whim. Write a business plan explaining exactly what you want to do and how you plan to do it. Concisely describe your movie idea and whether it is a documentary or a fictional story. Detail the planned finances of the movie: how much you will need to pay for equipment, personnel and locations. Include information on the target audience for your film, as well as how you visualize the film's publicity reaching that group, and your planned method of distributing the movie.
- 2). Use your business plan to find investors. Small films from unknown filmmakers usually have many small investors rather than one or two major backers. Look for people who are excited enough either about your talent or your film idea to invest, even if you cannot guarantee them a financial return. For instance, if you want to make a movie about the small town where you grew up, local business owners may like the idea of promoting the area. Friends and family members who believe in your talent may help. Seek out people who love films and like the idea of becoming involved in a movie.
- 3). Research grants and contests for filmmakers. Especially if you lack contacts in the film industry, and/or live far from major film centers, an award from a foundation or winning a well-known contest can help you gain recognition and credibility. Investigate niche grants which may support your film's topic area, your geographic region, or the specific group(s) you belong to based on age, gender, race, etc. Most grants and contests have an annual cycle for awards. Create a calendar of upcoming deadlines. Research the requirements to apply for each grant or contest. Find out if the grant or contest requires a script, letters of support, or specific credentials from applicants.
- 4). Approach film production studios and film distribution companies. Think about which studios have produced or distributed films similar to yours. Look into smaller boutique firms as well as major Hollywood studios. Some studios specialize in specific genres for specific audiences and may be interested in supporting you if your film fits their target demographic.
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