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How to Get a Grant to Make a Movie

While many Hollywood blockbusters like "Transformers" can cost as much as $150 million to make, most first-time filmmakers have much smaller budgets. And while even the most modest of independent films may require only a fraction of the budget of a Hollywood mega-picture, the fact of the matter is that even securing a few thousand dollars for a film can be difficult. Between hiring actors, purchasing cameras, scouting locations and editing the final cut of the film, movie makers have many expenses to pay. If you are an aspiring filmmaker in need of money to finish your dream project, there are a number of grant programs that you can benefit from.

Instructions

    • 1

      Begin your search with state sources. Your state's Council on the Arts or Film Commission likely offers a number of grant programs that you may qualify for. For example, the state of South Carolina's Film Commission offers filmmakers grants of up to $200,000 when they partner with select colleges and universities throughout the state.

    • 2

      Review the credits of your favorite films that are similar to your project in both scope and tone. The credits will list any organizations that provided funding for that film, which can give you leads on grant programs that you may be qualified for. Among these are the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and the LEF Foundation. Take note of these organizations and visit their websites to learn more.

    • 3

      Refine your online search for "film grants" with a descriptive phrase that exemplifies the type of film you are trying to make. Some terms that may yield productive results are "social justice," "history" or "first-time filmmaker." Other terms that may be helpful might reflect the genre of your film (such as "horror" or "documentary") or topic (such as "indigenous peoples," "economy" or "technology").

    • 4

      Contact the Center for Independent Documentary, if you are planning to embark on a nonfiction film project. This organization provides grant information from reputable organizations, as well as helpful tips related to filmmaking and postproduction.

    • 5

      Develop a funding timetable by applying for grants that support all stages of the filmmaking process. Some grants are designed to help filmmakers get their projects started, while others wish to provide funding for the editing or postproduction process. By applying for numerous grants that support the various stages of filmmaking, you will be able to have a steady stream of support that will ensure that your film will not be delayed.

    • 6

      Carefully review all requirements for the grants you are considering. Make sure to tailor your application to the organization providing the funding opportunity, and make sure to submit all required documents outlined in the application.

    • 7

      Work with a professional grant writer to polish your application, especially if you have never written a grant application before. An experienced grant writer can help to give your request for funding a competitive edge.

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Film Production

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