As a filmmaker you are looking not only for the funding to produce your film, but also money for marketing and advertising. Here are four options to consider when raising funds for P&A.
1. Crowdfunding with Mission-Focused Positioning
Faith-based audiences respond strongly to authentic, purpose-driven stories. A crowdfunding campaign becomes not just about the film—but about the impact.
How to do it:
- Use platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or GiveSendGo (GiveSendGo is faith-friendly).
- Create a video pitch highlighting how the film will inspire, engage an audience, or have a spiritual impact.
- Offer meaningful perks: “T-shirts,” “Digital devotional inspired by the film,” “Behind-the-scenes prayer call with the director.”
- Integrate testimonies or outcomes as part of the campaign updates to keep supporters engaged.
Tip: Position your P&A goal clearly: Include your logline and tagline, details about the film and distribution plans
2. Nonprofit Fiscal Sponsorship or 501(c)(3) Partner
If your film has a clear ministry or educational goal, you can raise tax-deductible donations for marketing and outreach.
How to do it:
- Partner with a fiscal sponsor (e.g., The Film Collaborative, From the Heart Productions, or a Christian nonprofit willing to host the project).
- Use that status to raise P&A donations from individuals, family foundations, or faith-based donors who can deduct their contributions.
- Clearly outline the impact goals — such as evangelism, cause based, or education — that make the project mission-aligned.
3. Early Screening Fundraiser
Your most engaged audience and fans are eager to be the first to see the film and could provide a extra boost to your P&A fund goal.
How to do it:
- Offer ticketed advanced screenings or private previews and use it as a “fundraiser” to reach your P&A funding goal.
- Create P&A sponsorship packages (e.g., $500–$5,000) that include recognition in the credits, group tickets, or special access.
- Use a “ Ministry Ambassador Program” where churches and ministries promote the film in exchange for early access or branded materials.
4. Leverage Christian Media Networks & Influencers for Sponsored Promotion
The Christian market has a highly engaged ecosystem of media—radio, podcasts, YouTube channels, blogs, and influencers—whose audiences trust them deeply. Many of these outlets offer sponsored promotion packages that can be funded in advance by donors or partners specifically for P&A.
How to do it:
- Identify Christian media outlets aligned with your film’s message:
- Christian radio stations (K-LOVE, WAY-FM, local Christian talk radio)
- Christian podcasts and YouTube channels
- Faith-based bloggers, reviewers, and online communities
- Create media sponsorship tiers, allowing donors or partners to directly underwrite specific marketing buys:
- $2,500 — Radio spots in top markets
- $1,000 — Sponsored podcast appearances
- $500 — Influencer reels / reviews
- $250 — Email newsletter placement
- Use media personalities as ambassadors who share interviews, testimonies, or behind-the-scenes stories.
- Provide partners with impact reports showing impressions, clicks, trailer views, and audience engagement their sponsorship created.
Turn P&A Into a Movement
Treat your campaign less like fundraising and more like a cause.
Frame your pitch around:
“We’re not just marketing a movie — we’re spreading a message of hope.”
Combine faith storytelling, clear financial transparency, and audience participation, and you’ll find people eager to help amplify your film.