We all know fundraising is one of the biggest challenges for any independent project, but it’s also where some of the most creative problem-solving happens.
Have you ever used a unique pitch, partnership, or unconventional method to get your project funded? Did you tap into brand sponsorships, fiscal sponsors, tax incentives like Section 181, or create a proof-of-concept to attract investors?
Let’s open it up:
What’s the most creative or effective strategy you’ve used (or seen used) to finance a film, series, or creative project?
Drop your experience, ask questions, or share a tip for someone currently in the financing trenches. This could spark some real insight for others in the community!
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Ashley Renee Smith I recently came across a couple listing their 74-acre property in Colorado for $300 million. If you—or someone you know—own an asset of that scale, almost any bank will finance your film upto $50 million or more if you pledge the property as collateral.
Without collateral whose value exceeds the loan amount, banks are generally not an option. That leaves equity or non-bank debt as alternatives—essentially, people willing to invest or lend knowing they could lose 100% of their money if the project fails.
The transaction itself isn’t terribly complicated if you have a solid project and the right stars attached. What I’m currently focused on is financing a slate of projects, but that’s probably best discussed after execution.
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Thats one I've never considered, Kenneth George! Interesting.
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Ashley Renee Smith If you’re looking to raise, say, $50 million to produce a slate of around 10 strategically budgeted films—which is very feasible, by the way—you really have to go big in terms of strategy.
State-level tax incentives and programs like Section 181 can help, but they’re more like supplementary or secondary tools (like coupons) rather than primary solutions.
If you’re actually in the financial trenches and not just talking hypothetically, there could be some very real options available to you—especially with your background. It’s hard to say without knowing exactly how much you’re aiming to raise.