BUSINESS PLANS: THE BEGINNER'S CRASH COURSE IN ATTRACTING INVESTORS TO YOUR FILM

For most, especially those who don't have a solid track record of making films that make money, or at least break even, a solid business plan is the number one way to attract investors to your film. This five-part series for beginners explores that concept.

Part 5: A Well-Conceived Business Plan

In the first installment I pointed out how so many business plans are filled with a whole lot of fluff. They may be well-written, they may look good, but they give no real substance, nothing the film investor really needs to decide whether or not to invest in your film. I've found a business plan with no real substance can become a filmmaker's worst enemy.

Of course a nice looking business plan will go a long way. But a nice looking plan does not ensure they won't become bored, and forget about you and your dream project. Fluff will bore them, hard numbers and a solid strategy for recouping their investment will entice them.

It's critical a filmmakers business plan include the elements we've outlined in this series:

• A solid distribution strategy

• Realistic sales projections

• A strategy for recouping investors money

To devise a proper business plan, one which can be the difference between winning over investors and not, you should consult a professional. Experienced experts in their chosen field who can give assist you in devising a comprehensive, realistic distribution plan, sales projections, and a strategy for recouping investors money.

And, remember, a happy investor is a future investor.