Film Financing
How independent films and series get funded, and a free place to put your project in front of private investors.
Independent films are rarely paid for by a single source. Producers usually build a "capital stack": equity from private investors, money raised against pre-sales to distributors, government tax incentives, and sometimes gap or bridge loans to close the difference.
PitchStreet members post film, documentary and TV projects with the budget they need, and investors interested in entertainment can browse them and get in touch.
- Investor types
- Private Venture Capital Firm (1,129), Private Equity Investment Firm (717), Angel Investor Group (33)
- Top locations
- California (306), New York (218), Massachusetts (81), Texas (51), Ontario (41)
- Stages funded
- Early Stage (1,169), Expansion (1,071), Startup (1,059), Seed (989)
The main sources of film money
- Equity investors: private individuals or companies who own part of the film's revenue in return for their investment
- Pre-sales: distributors in different territories agree to buy the finished film, and those contracts can be used to raise loans
- Tax credits and incentives: many states, provinces and countries refund part of the money spent filming there
- Gap and bridge financing: loans against unsold territories or expected tax credits
- Crowdfunding, grants and brand partnerships, often for documentaries and smaller budgets
What film investors ask for
Investors want to understand the risk and how they get paid back. Have a finished script, a realistic budget and schedule, attached talent or key crew if you have them, comparable films and their results, the incentive you plan to use, and a clear "waterfall" showing who is paid back first from the film's income.
Frequently asked questions
How do independent filmmakers find investors?
Through personal networks, film markets and festivals, entertainment lawyers and producers, and investor networks such as PitchStreet, where you can post a project free and let investors find it.
What is a recoupment waterfall?
It is the order in which money from a film's sales is paid out: typically distributors and lenders first, then equity investors get their money back (often with a premium), and only then is profit shared.
Can tax incentives pay for part of a film?
Yes. Many regions refund or credit a percentage of eligible spending made there. Producers often borrow against the expected incentive during production.
Is it free to post a film project on PitchStreet?
Creating a profile and posting your pitch is free. Sending and reading messages needs a Paid Member plan.
Related guides
This guide is general information, not investment, legal or tax advice. Directory figures update automatically. PitchStreet is a network that connects people who need capital with people who have it; it is not a lender, broker or investment adviser.