Prepare a detailed business plan for your film project. The plan should delineate all expenses associated with your film, including cast and crew salaries; meals, lodging and transportation; camera, lighting, sound and editing equipment; rental fees; construction of film sets; props and wardrobes; advertising; and distribution. In addition to a synopsis of the movie, the plan should identify its target demographic, the timeline for completion, resumes of key personnel and an estimate of the profits to be made. The more thorough and professional the contents of your presentation folder, the more likely a potential investor will believe in its merits.
Enter your screenplay in lots of contests (or your finished movie in film festivals) where cash prizes are awarded. Even though these sums tend to be low, they may be enough to underwrite a low-budget film or film short. The other advantage of entering contests is that the exposure of your work could attract the attention of someone with deep pockets who is as passionate about your movie as you are.
Apply for film grants, corporate sponsorships and nonprofit support, especially if your project is a documentary or speaks to environmental issues or a prominent social cause such as homelessness, AIDS, literacy, Alzheimer's or addictions. The Business Success Institute has published titles such as "How to Get Government Grant Money --- Underground Strategies and Resources" to help you get started. Read the business section of your newspaper to identify programs and events that local companies and major corporations are endorsing and that might be a tie-in for your film.
Find out whether there are funds available through your state's film and arts commissions. While there's no question that the economy has left many government entities strapped for cash, there may be opportunities to network with fellow filmmakers and pool your respective resources.
Offer something tangible in trade to people who might want to invest in your movie. For most investors, the perk of choice is a return on their investment through a percentage of the film's profits. Others, however, may be satisfied with a walk-on role, an associate producer credit or an acknowledgment in the credits. Businesses may want to help you out in exchange for product placement or for a mention in the credits that scenes were shot at their store, cafe or office.
Hold a fundraising party or a garage sale to bring in cash for your film. Have fliers and brochures made up for the event. If you have a CD teaser, be sure it's continuously playing. Ask friends, neighbors and co-workers to donate items or, in lieu of objects for the sale, a check. The more people you ask, the more those incremental $5 and $10 donations will start to add up.
Investigate film-financing websites such as Cinemarquee, which provide extensive resources and advice for aspiring producers who need funding to get their projects off the ground or into distribution (see Resources).