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Financing Documentaries
A few observations regarding financing a documentary film:
- The success of feature documentaries at the box office is growing. However, there are still only a handful of documentary films that can expect to obtain a theatrical release.
- Documentary films can generate enough revenues to recoup production costs and turn a profit. In this regard DVD and television distribution (particularly via cable networks) are critical sources of income.
- While revenues can be projected, it is next to impossible to obtain pre-sales on a documentary film. An acquisition deal is a much more likely possibility, after the film has been produced and after it has garnered positive attention at various film festivals.
A distribution or acquisition deal can help you recoup your investment, but how do you get the financing in the first place???
There are of course the traditional sources like grants. Several foundations and entities like the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) actively support major projects. We can help with these grant applications by supplying the distribution and marketing expertise needed to satisfy demanding grantmakers.
Private donors are important and you may be able to obtain their financial contributions. In order to offer a tax benefit to donors, you must either establish a non-profit organization or your project must receive Fiscal Sponsorship. Sharp Angle can assist with Fiscal Sponsorship applications and film proposals.
Private investors may be willing to take a risk on your film, if you can show that it has a clear path to revenues. You need a film business plan, we write the best plans. Period.
The latest developments in documentary funding involve hybrid non-profit/for-profit structures. We can assist you in managing both of these elements, including referrals to an attorney who can setup the legal paperwork.
See how we can make your documentary film project a success:
Market Positioning Report
Film Proposals / Film Business Plan
Fundraising Strategy
Marketing Plan
Distribution Assessment Report
Marketing Materials
Latest Online Marketing Tools
What do we know? Find out more about us and check our credentials.
E-mail us today to see how we can assist you with your documentary film project. See our e-mail above.
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