I'm starting a new multi-part video series that unfortunately requires a bit of initial investment beyond my limited resources. Does anyone have some tips for raising cash for a film project? Got any stories about how you scraped up enough dough to get that one necessary prop? I've thought of using the old "buy a special thanks credit", though considering my age I'm not so sure how effective it will be.

Any fund-raising related talk would be welcome.

Get a job?

I wish I knew!

But I think the main thing to present to possible investors, wheter it's your uncle or your dentist (they must get nonstop solicitations as most filmmschools talk about hitting up dentists!) is a well thought out business plan or at the very least a presentable project description. If you show some effort in this stage they will be more willing to help out even if there is no return! and from what I have read its like any other sales gig, its a numbers game as the more you pitch the more likely they bite. I hate money.

But then again I've never had an investor so who the hell knows! I just didn't want the smartass "get a job" comment to be the only reply. Although this is probably even less helpful and maybe "get a job" is a better plan. I think extortion might be easier.

Another method you could raise money by is to go to all the people you know and get a small amount of money from them (like $10 to $20) and if you know a lot of people it can add up quickly. You didn't mention how much you budget was so I hope something like this helps. You might have a lot of Special Thanks credits but you get the film made regardless. People are more apt to part with small amounts of money than a couple people parting with a larger sum.

Thank you for the advice. My budget isn't TOO terribly much, so I think the special thanks route is a good one. But yes, I probably should start practicing drawing up presentable summaries of my projects. The art of pitching is so crucial (not just for fund-raising).

And yes, I have a job, and will probably be working full time all summer (again). But there are other expenses, unfortunately.

Does anyone know where i could get more information about 'the art of pitching' and how to raise money for films.