how do i get funding?

M

maxham

Hello I was wondering what a good way to get a sponsor or funding for my documentary would be. I can't afford all of the costs myself so how would I go about getting legitimate funding from either a small business or a corporation?
 
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1)Put on a suit.
2)Stand up straight.
3)Have a clear budget and plan for the film, with an estimated timeline.
4)Go to small business or corporation.
5)Be confident and ask politely.
6)Get rejected.
7)Repeat steps 1-5 until...
8)Receive money. Say thank you.
 
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Dreadylocks said:
1)Put on a suit.
2)Stand up straight.
3)Have a clear budget and plan for the film, with an estimated timeline.
4)Go to small business or corporation.
5)Be confident and ask politely.
6)Get rejected.
7)Repeat steps 1-5 until...
8)Receive money. Say thank you.
Click to expand...

Alternatively, you can follow the person you want with a camera, snap some "awkward" photos....offer return of photos for funding. (Please note, I am not liable if you get caught, this was sarcasm ;))

Seriously, supply and demand. If you want someone to sponsor you, they are going to ask "What's in it for me". I think just getting footage out, getting your name out, someone sees something they like and gives you a call/email.

Dreadylocks is pretty much spot on. Myself, I'm just waiting to be in the right place at the right time :D
 
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pretty much sums it up. I am currently working on my first doc. Luckily I have a friend with equipment who is willing and able.

Perhaps you can explore this option? Grab a good quality handy-cam and film a "trial" version of your doc, an example if you will... Find out who likes that type of subject matter and show it to them. If they like it, they may help.

Good luck.
 
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Dreadylocks said:
1)Put on a suit.
2)Stand up straight.
3)Have a clear budget and plan for the film, with an estimated timeline.
4)Go to small business or corporation.
5)Be confident and ask politely.
6)Get rejected.
7)Repeat steps 1-5 until...
8)Receive money. Say thank you.
Click to expand...

This is the way to do it - it took me a year, but I was working on developing the script at the same time so it wasn't a complete waste.
 
Last edited:
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If you have some sort of portfolio to show previous works in this genre, you could approach various granting agencies such as State Arts Board, National Endowment for the Humanities, or corporate fine arts funds which have a record of banking documentaries (espcially those related to your docu's subject matter). Try the Foundation Center for references.
http://foundationcenter.org/
 
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