Need Help With Business Plan For TV Show Pitch
I have a TV program I was originally trying to pitch to networks. But after some investigation, we've determined that is not the best way to go. What I need now is help with a business plan so I can raise some seed money and maintain control of the project. My plan now is shoot a few episodes and then market on youtube with banner ads, etc., pointing to a website that will offer more information and help. The program is about job searching. I already have a demo; I just need help with the money part. Which is, or course, HUGE! Thanks
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Michel Angelo on -
its a tuff one, but there are smaller production houses and regional networks you could approach...
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Permalink Reply by Marybeth and Craig Layne on -
Thanks!
I would greatly appreciate it if you could give me any names or places where I could possibly find these smaller production companies or regional networks.
Michel Angelo said:its a tuff one, but there are smaller production houses and regional networks you could approach...
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Permalink Reply by Ron Morris on -
Most decent size cities will have production companies that you can hire at different levels. Meaning, from full production in house to hiring a crew on a day or week rate. Obviously, the more you plan and pre produce (script, shots needed, interviews pre planned, etc.) the less you have to hire.
The rate around here would be up to $5,000 a day which includes 2 or 3 member crew plus all equipment (truck to produce a show).
Now you could also go another way which would be to contact local Junior College, University and see if you could meet with the Professor to have his students do the technical stuff as a educational project.
AND/OR buy or borrow inexpensive cameras and get someone that knows about lighting (that's everything) and put together a make shift set and shoot it yourself, edit on the computer (windows movie maker) and upload to YouTube.
The idea is to Produce it and if its worth it you can sell it from there. TV people will see the concept whether it is poorly produced or not. Just give them something.
Just a few thoughts. I hope they are worth something to you.
Ron
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Permalink Reply by Marybeth and Craig Layne on
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Ron Morris said:Most decent size cities will have production companies that you can hire at different levels. Meaning, from full production in house to hiring a crew on a day or week rate. Obviously, the more you plan and pre produce (script, shots needed, interviews pre planned, etc.) the less you have to hire.
The rate around here would be up to $5,000 a day which includes 2 or 3 member crew plus all equipment (truck to produce a show).
Now you could also go another way which would be to contact local Junior College, University and see if you could meet with the Professor to have his students do the technical stuff as a educational project.
AND/OR buy or borrow inexpensive cameras and get someone that knows about lighting (that's everything) and put together a make shift set and shoot it yourself, edit on the computer (windows movie maker) and upload to YouTube.
The idea is to Produce it and if its worth it you can sell it from there. TV people will see the concept whether it is poorly produced or not. Just give them something.
Just a few thoughts. I hope they are worth something to you.
Ron
Thanks, Ron
Appreciate the help!
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Permalink Reply by Michel Angelo on
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Marybeth - as this is the industry that you are wanting to succeed in, perhaps you could research it and all its components... it could be handed out to you, but where is the fun in that learning curve? imagine how much impact you will have on a potential investor if you are knowledgeable about every aspect and every player in your proposed industry...
Marybeth and Craig Layne said:Thanks!
I would greatly appreciate it if you could give me any names or places where I could possibly find these smaller production companies or regional networks.
Michel Angelo said:its a tuff one, but there are smaller production houses and regional networks you could approach...
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Permalink Reply by C. Reynolds on -
Hollywood is always looking for new ideas, but unless you're already established there, it's next to impossible.
However, PBS is always looking for good programming. I'd suggest proposing your idea to your local PBS station.
Pitching starts with giving them your idea, usually in one or two sentences. Brevity is key. Think of it as what you might read in the TV guide. Make sure you are enthusiastic. If they nibble, then give them a more fleshed out version -- describe your project as though it's already on the screen and give them a written logline, synopsis, budget, production timeline, etc. Again, enthusiasm is key.
Your other option of producing a pilot is also good. Why not put the pilot on youtube with a link to your website for more info and perhaps an episode or two.
Raising money for this (venture capitol) does require a business plan, plus a registered company, and a lawyer. It's tough and takes a lot of time, effort and belief in your idea. Bear in mind, having a distributor before you start production (or money raising) helps immensely. It's like having a guarantee your program will be seen, thus attracting advertising sponsors and thus the network makes money.
Let me know if I can help further.
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