Applying for grants can be messy and overwhelming, with faulty links, endless options, and unclear deadlines. We're here today to provide a guide and the resources to make your application process smoother and more manageable.
Below you can find our comprehensive filmmaking grant list.
WHAT TO DO?
Considering that you have a SOLID peer reviewed script, the next step into your grant apploication if finding is A TEAM of PROFESSIONALS, and creating a visually compelling PITCH DECK.
TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS
If you aim to get grants and maybe create films for the long haul, I strongly suggest that you get picky with who you bring on board. Start by gathering a team of professionals whose work you admire, you enjoy working with, are highly collaborative, you share similar working values, and who are talented enough that they will not only complement, but truly enhance your vision. When applying for grants, you need to show you have a strong team that is united in one vision and unwavering commitment to bring the story to life.
PITCH DECK
A pitch deck is a visual representation of your film's tone, story, and theme. Even if certain grants do not require a pitch deck, crafting one will compel you to answer questions about the film that you might not have considered. You will delve deep into the mission, budget, team, logline, and other essential aspects—the why, who, what, when, and where of the film. Essentially, you are doing all the groundwork ahead of time. Additionally, you can use the pitch deck to attract investors and collaborators. If creating a strong pitch deck is not your forte, we strongly suggest outsourcing and hiring a designer.
A pitch deck should be professional and visually compelling. Click Here for examples.
FIND GRANTS
One of the most daunting parts of applying for grants is finding them and meeting their deadlines. (Hint: aim to apply as early as possible.) Start a spreadsheet with columns for Grant Name, Grant Type, Opening Date & Deadline, Cost, and Link. If this sounds overwhelming, you can access Pink Mud's Grant List BELOW, which includes grants, screenwriting competitions, and filmmaking programs to help accelerate your career.
START SAVING MONEY
Most grants cost money and will likely come out of your pocket! Straight and simple: skip the cute top or the margaritas, and start saving!
GOOD LUCK!
JULY'S SPOTLIGHT FILMMAKER:
Born and raised in Texas. David became a Cinematographer after receiving a bachelors in Architecture from the University of Oklahoma. As a lifelong film lover, David decided to jump feet first into the film world and has now spent a decade in the industry as a cinematographer. Perspective, problem solving, and framework learned during his career in architecture have formed his cinematic style. David’s portfolio of work includes commercial, music videos, and narrative projects spanning multiple genres. He is represented by Radiant Artists.
David recently joined forces with Pink Mud Productions as Director of Photography for our upcoming proof of concept, Hitchhiker.
Written and starred by Samantha Walker. Directed by Scott Rice.
JULY FILMMAKING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
Thank you for joining us on this crazy journey! See you next month.
Best,
Jenny & Catie
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