Write up a business plan to start the process. People who consider giving money to the film will want to know what the film is about, where it will be filmed, who will be in it and how much money will be needed to make it. Be honest in this plan and include everything with a cost in a detailed list.
Look to friends for help and money. Instead of using paid actors, finding friends who are willing to participate for free will lower the film's overall budget. Some friends also may have money they can pitch in to help.
Use the Internet to find investors and promote the project. Websites such as Kickstarter (see Resources) allow people looking for money for a project to post a plan and have supporters from all over the world donate money to that cause. Create a professional looking website, pages on social networking sites and a Twitter account for the short film and update these sites regularly on your needs and progress. Also, market your idea in more traditional ways, by contacting potential investors by phone or in person, sending out letters and networking with others in the industry.
Find business investors who are passionate about the project. Often, business investors are looking to get their money back after a movie is made. A short film may not bring in a lot of money, unless it is an award winner. Look for financing from people who are just as enthusiastic as the filmmaker in getting the film made. They may be less likely to want their money back in the end.