Funding Your Film Through Investors
How to Find Investors, Plan a Presentation and Secure Funds.
Aug 3, 2009
The following steps will help you secure both investors and funds for your independent film in a timely and efficient manner.
Choose Potential Backers
It's a good idea to approach potential backers that you feel are in some way connected to, or personally invested in your subject or cause. Approach more people than you think you need and don't be afraid to ask for names and contact information of other possible investors. Networking is key.
Plan Your Presentation
When you have chosen your potential investors, you will need to plan your sell. If you are pitching to a few potential backers, consider organizing a presentation for all of them at once. Serve drinks and snacks and treat your guests to a sampling of other projects you have worked on, making sure to mention any awards your films have earned and festivals they have attended. A montage specially edited for the occasion works best. This way, you can choose to feature past achievements that will particularly impress your potential backers, while keeping it short.
Put Together a Trailer
Preparing a short trailer or preview for your film may be the most effective strategy for inspiring both the interest and confidence of your potential backers. Even if you have not begun production, with a little creativity, you can easily put together a 45 second montage, if only relying on stock footage, text and voiceover.
Prepare Information Packets
It's a good idea to prepare an information packet for each guest. These can also be used in one-on-one meetings with potential backers.
Your Information Packet Should Include:
- A synopsis of the film you are pitching
- A short Resume, listing relevant past achievements
- Any Press Packet material you have (small posters, flyers, stickers, etc.)
Contracts or Promises and Collecting Your Funds
It is best to collect your checks before the investors leave your presentation. The next best thing is to have your investor sign a contract or promisory note, stating the monetary value of their pledge and the date by which they plan to provide these funds.
Often, this is the most uncomfortable part of process. The key here is your own attitude. Remember that you are not "begging for money", you are selling a product. If you have confidence in your product, your investors will too. Keep this in mind when you are presenting your contracts, or promisory notes.
Scheduled Follow-Ups
Whether you have secured contracts or only secured interest, be sure to schedule a time to follow-up with each investor. This will be a time when you can update the investor on your progress, as well as to remind them that you are relying on their help to complete your project. Be as precise as possible on date and time for the follow-ups and give the investor a physical reminder (i.e. a business card with your appointment time). In person or phone follow-ups work best.
Collections- Persistance and Etiquette
It goes without saying, that in any fund-raising situation, persistance is key. Just as you would if you were working an office, you have a right to politely ask for your promised funds. Plan the call as an update, letting your investor know what you are working on, leading up to what you need and finally, letting them know how pleased you are that they have chosen to help with your project. If they don't respond to subtlety, ask outright. "When can we expect your generous contribution?" A business-like manner, inspires like response.
Even after you have received your funds, make a point to keep your investors up to date, if only with periodic emails. You may need their help again and they are more likely to comply if they are enjoying being involved in your project.
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