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Fundraising Ideas for Film Makers

Making a movie, even a low-budget or independent feature, is an costly idea. You face a lot of expenses, including equipment, locations, actors, and even food to for your actors and crew. You also need money for unexpected emergencies, such as losing a location or breaking a camera during shooting. While you hear stories about filmmakers who finished their first project for a few thousand dollars, you'll also hear stories about people who raised ten times that much for their first film. With a little planning and effort, though, it's easy to raise money for your next project.
  1. Cameos

    • Sell cameo roles in your movie to family, friends, and other people in your community. Set a specific price for the role or offer different levels, based on donations. For example, if someone donates the smallest amount, they receive a role in the background of one scene, while those who donate the largest amount, get a line in the movie. Offer different price ranges to appeal to everyone who wants to help.

    Filmmaker Event

    • Host a filmmaker event in your own home, asking friends and family to donate the food and other items for the party. Ask guests to make a donation towards your movie, but give them something in return. Give your guests a behind the scenes glimpse at making a film, by showing dallies or early footage of your film. Ask your actors to attend the event and mingle with guests.

    Free Gift

    • Ask for donations in exchange for a free gift. Advertise on your website, in an online newsletter, or just spread the word among your family and friends. You may want to give people a copy of your last movie, an autographed picture, a signed script from the whole cast, or a special thanks credit at the end of your movie. You can even hold a contest, giving a copy of everything available to the person who donates the largest amount.

    Showcase

    • Gather your actors and hold an acting showcase. Charge admission to the event and spread the word online and around town. Talk to local news stations and newspapers and get them to highlight the event. Guests get to see your actors acting out scenes from your film, or scenes from famous movies. Check with local theaters about hosting the event there and ask for free use of the theater in exchange for a credit in the movie.

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