Filmmaking / Directing : Film Grants by Mariia Rudenko

Mariia, I was just wondering about film funding grants myself. I've written an ultra low budget story that I think I can make for $30,000. I checked out the Screencraft Film Fund and I see that they may provide up to $30,000 for the winning project. They just ask for a $39 entry fee. What was your thought process for going ahead with this? And does anyone out there have experience with this film fund, or comments to add. Thanks, John Royan

hi John Royan ! the thing is I already took part in ScreenCraft Screenwriting fellowship competition, and my project made it to semifinals. Plus ScreenCraft folks have a good reputation among industry professionals I talked to. So I trust their competitions. Once I saw their newsletter about film funding I didn’t hesitate. Wrote cover letter and submitted:)

I want to use my screenplay Let Me Save the World to make an indie movie, and desperately am looking for financing, and education on the subject.

good luck with your project! I think it’s worth submitting 100%!

Mariia Thanks. That's what I was hoping to hear. I'll join you there. Good Luck with you project too. Onward!

John Royan thanks a lot! I hope we both will get it!:)

Is it common for grants to have submission fees?

hi Mike Boas ! frankly I don’t know whether it’s a common practice, but I went with it anyway :)

State grants are good way to go. I was awarded this year in my state for a grant. I would avoid the ones you pay to enter. All money grabs.

Stephen Folker thanks a lot! and congratulations on the award! what are you filming?

could you please share the links for such grants?

Mariia Rudenko - it's for a documenatry. Look at your state's art council for grants. In my state, the grant I was awared they only gave it to three people. I've entered multiple times. Just cannot give up!

Hi Mariia Rudenko - your film sounds great. I recommend Rick Davis' Stage 32 Webinar on tapping into Donor Advised Funds, which can be great for social impact projects. Rick is a fountain of knowledge. Here's a link so you can check it out: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/alternative-fundraising-strat...

thanks a lot Stephen Folker ! Will look for it in Spain where I reside now.

thanks a lot for the tip Sam Sokolow ! Will check it out. I also already bought How to Finance & Produce an Independent Film Between $250K-$2M

I've had my eye on the Filmmakers Collaborative. Not a grant, but a 501c3 that allows a pass-through for tax deductible donations. Requires a $200 membership fee. https://filmmakerscollab.org/fiscalsponsorship/

Mariia Rudenko how much are you trying to raise?