You've made a few short films. Now you want to make your first feature. The biggest question isn't, "What camera should I use?" It's, "Where will I get the money?"

Raising money for your first feature film typically involves combining multiple funding sources. Most first-time filmmakers use 2-4 different methods together. You might self-fund part of it, run a crowdfunding campaign, and apply for grants. Very few first features get funded from just one source.

Let's look at the main ways filmmakers raise money for their first feature.

Self-Funding and Bootstrapping #

Self-funding means using your own money or money from friends and family. This is how many micro-budget films ($5,000-$50,000) get made. You save money from your job, use credit cards, or ask relatives to invest small amounts.

The advantage is complete creative control. The disadvantage is the financial risk falls entirely on you. Many filmmakers combine self-funding with other methods to reduce personal risk.

Crowdfunding Platforms #

Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and Seed&Spark let you raise money from many small donors. You create a campaign page explaining your film and offer rewards to backers. Common rewards include digital downloads, credits in the film, or merchandise. (See here for more on this.)

Successful campaigns typically raise $5,000-$20,000 for first features, with an average around $12,000. The average success rate on Kickstarter for film projects is about 37-43%. You need a strong social media following and a compelling story to succeed.

Film Grants and Funds #

Many countries offer grants specifically for filmmakers. In the US, organizations like the Sundance Institute and Film Independent offer grants ranging from $10,000-$50,000, with some major grants reaching $120,000. European countries have national film funds like the BFI in the UK or CNC in France.

Asia has funds like the Busan Film Fund in South Korea and Hubert Bals Fund which supports filmmakers globally. African filmmakers can apply to funds like the African Film Heritage Project. Research what's available in your country first.

Private Investors and Executive Producers #

Private investors put money into your film expecting financial returns or tax benefits. An executive producer typically contributes $25,000 or more and receives a producing credit. They might also open doors to industry connections.

Finding investors requires a solid business plan showing how the film will make money. You'll need a budget breakdown, script, and ideally a proof-of-concept or previous work. This method works better for low-budget films ($50,000-$500,000) than micro-budget ones.

Co-Production Partnerships #

Co-production means partnering with production companies or filmmakers in other countries. Each partner contributes resources like money, equipment, or crew. This spreads the financial risk and can unlock funding from multiple countries.

For example, a Nigerian filmmaker might co-produce with a South African company to access funding from both countries. Co-productions work well for films with international appeal or stories set in multiple locations.

Pre-Sales and Distribution Advances #

Pre-sales mean selling distribution rights to your film before it's finished. A distributor might pay $20,000-$100,000 upfront for the right to release your film in their territory. You use this money to complete production.

This method is difficult for first-time filmmakers without a sales agent or proven track record. It works better if you have name actors attached or a unique commercial hook.

Tax Incentives and Rebates #

Many regions offer tax rebates to encourage film production. You spend money making your film, then get 20-40% back as a tax rebate. For a $100,000 film, you might get $20,000-$40,000 back.

Countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, and many US states offer these programs. Requirements vary, but you typically need to spend a minimum amount and hire local crew. You usually receive the rebate after completing the film.

Deferred Payment Deals #

Deferred payment means cast and crew agree to receive payment later, after the film makes money. This reduces your upfront costs significantly. A $60,000 budget might become $30,000 if half the team defers payment.

Only work with people who genuinely believe in your project and can afford to wait for payment. Always create written agreements specifying when and how much people will be paid. Never promise payment you can't guarantee.

Combining Multiple Methods #

Most successful first features combine 3-4 funding sources. You might self-fund $15,000, raise $20,000 through crowdfunding, receive a $10,000 grant, and get $15,000 from deferred payments. This creates a $60,000 budget from diverse sources.

Start with the methods you can control like self-funding and crowdfunding. Then layer in grants and other sources as opportunities arise. Building a realistic budget and timeline is essential before approaching any funding source.

The key is persistence and flexibility. Your first feature probably won't get funded the way you originally imagined. Stay open to different approaches and be ready to adjust your plans as opportunities appear.

Finally #

Raising money for your first feature film is not easy. But it can be done. With passion, perseverance and good story to tell, you can do it!