Filmmaking Lifestyle

Film Production Company Business Plan: The Complete Guide

production studio business plan pdf

The process of film production is a long and arduous one. It starts with the writing stage, where screenplays are written by a writer or multiple writers.

The screenplay typically has at least three acts that have to be edited for pacing and story development purposes. Once the script is finished, it’s time for pre-production!

There’s a lot of misconception about what film production really entails. This article will clear up some of the misconceptions and give you an idea of what it is like on set, as well as how to break into the industry.

FILM PRODUCTION COMPANY BUSINESS PLAN

What is a film production company business plan.

A film production company business plan is a document that can help you to get investors and loans from banks, but it’s also useful for you to see if your idea is viable. It helps you determine if it’s worth investing money, time, and effort.

Film production company business plans are documents that should be created before starting the business.

They will help you gain investors so you can start your film production company and make money out of your films.

A business plan should have all the necessary information about your film company , including the mission statement, executive summary, market analysis, funding request, financial projections, and management team.

Starting a film production company is an exciting venture that blends creative storytelling with the thrill of entrepreneurship.

Crafting a solid business plan is our roadmap to success, ensuring we navigate the complex landscape of the film industry with confidence.

We’ll jump into the essentials of a film production company business plan, from financial projections to marketing strategies.

Stick with us to learn how to lay the groundwork for a thriving production company that’s ready to take on Hollywood.

production studio business plan pdf

Executive Summary

When embarking on the exhilarating journey of starting a film production company, the executive summary stands as a pivotal introduction to the business plan.

It provides a snapshot of the company’s vision and objectives, ensuring that potential investors or partners grasp the core of what we’re building.

In our executive summary, we’ll outline the major points that distinguish our company, such as our unique storytelling capabilities and innovative distribution strategies.

We hone in on our competitive advantage – a blend of seasoned industry professionals and fresh talent that pushes the envelope of what’s possible in film.

We’ll also touch upon our foundational goals:

  • Captivate a diverse audience with groundbreaking narratives,
  • Create a slate of projects that showcase profitability and creative ingenuity,
  • Establish a brand synonymous with quality entertainment.

Financial plans are succinctly summarized to demonstrate the strategic allocation of resources and the anticipated financial trajectory.

Here, investors will find confidence in our capability to manage budgets effectively and produce high-return projects.

Marketing strategies are briefly yet powerfully presented, showcasing how we plan to penetrate the market and gain substantial traction.

We outline our approach to leveraging social media , partnerships, and film festivals to amplify our presence and stake our claim in a crowded industry.

Each element of our executive summary is designed to pique interest and invite deeper exploration into our full business plan.

Through it, we lay the foundation for a dialogue with stakeholders that could translate into lasting support for our creative endeavours.

Company Overview

In the heart of our business plan lies the comprehensive Company Overview section, a detailed portrait of who we are and what we stand for.

As seasoned filmmakers at Filmmaking Lifestyle, we take pride in our ability to tell gripping stories through the lens of our cameras.

We offer a range of filmmaking services, but here’s a snapshot of our core offerings:

  • Narrative Film Production – Our signature offering includes developing and producing feature films that resonate with audiences globally.
  • Commercial Video Production – We craft compelling marketing videos that help brands tell their stories and engage with their target demographic.
  • Innovative Content Creation – With the digital space evolving rapidly, we stay ahead of trends producing content that stands out in crowded platforms.

Our mission goes beyond the visual aesthetics; it’s about weaving narratives that leave a lasting impact.

Each project is an opportunity for us to push the envelope in creative storytelling.

At the core of our operation, we strive to achieve a convergence of artistic vision and commercial viability.

Anchored by a team of dedicated professionals, we bring diverse perspectives and skills to every production.

This synergy creates a fertile ground for innovative filmmaking.

Our work ethic revolves around a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to staying on top of the latest industry advancements.

Focused on scaling our film production capabilities, we’re actively exploring emerging technologies and distribution channels to enhance our impact in the industry.

We’re all about staying ahead of the curve, making sure our films are not just seen, but remembered and revered.

With a portfolio that spans various genres and styles, our flexibility allows us to tailor our approach to each unique project.

Collaboration is key – by joining forces with talented writers, directors, and producers, we amplify our ability to craft unforgettable cinematic experiences.

Investing in our growth, we’ve equipped ourselves with state-of-the-art equipment and editing suites, ensuring professionalism and efficiency in our production workflow.

production studio business plan pdf

Convergence of art and technology is critical in our approach and is reflected in every piece of content we produce.

eventually, our Company Overview is not just an introduction to who we are; it’s an open invitation to jump deeper into the possibilities and potent potential of partnering with Filmmaking Lifestyle.

We’re here to bring visions to life and curate a portfolio of work that speaks volumes of our passion for filmmaking.

Vision And Mission

production studio business plan pdf

Matt Crawford

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Iam having a movie by the name from the streets to the world

production studio business plan pdf

Best of luck, Kelvin!

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Matt .. would you have template of the Biz Plan .. and are you Fine with sharing the same? – AMAAN

Here’s an idea for a template: https://toskaproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/TEA-Business-Plan.pdf

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Production Studio Business Plan Sample

This production studio business plan sample is focused on the growing entertainment and content creation sector in New York City, NY .  We hope this sample provides you with a brief foundation for starting your own production studio.  Our production studio business plan writers crafted this sample for your review.

Executive Summary

“The Simply Me LLC”, doing business under the trade name “Simply Me Studios” (herein also referred to as “Simply Me Studios” and “the Company”), was incorp orated on January 30, 2022 in the State of New York by Founder and Director, Ms. Liezel Miller.  Simply Me Studios is a production studio located within the Thirty Mile Zone (TMZ) in New York City, New York, that provides on-demand soundstages and studio spaces to content creators, musicians, influencers, production companies, and other creative professionals.

The expanding creator economy, coupled with the increasing content production by streaming and traditional media companies, has led to a shortage of production studios in New York City. As a result, soundstage and studio spaces are in high demand, with many operating at or near maximum capacity. This has led to an unprecedented utilization rate for these facilities, highlighting the need for increased investment in studio infrastructure to keep up with the growing demand.

Simply Me Studios aims to fill this need by providing a state-of-the-art studio space equipped with professional cameras, lighting, backdrops, and props. The soundstages and studio spaces will be available for booking on Peerspace, a popular online platform for finding and reserving unique spaces. The company will use a marketing strategy that focuses on building genuine connections with its clients through organic marketing, social media platforms and partnerships with industry players. Additionally, the Company will use targeted advertising and email campaigns to reach specific demographics and niches within the entertainment industry.

Overall, the combination of a high-demand market, a comprehensive offering, targeted marketing, and a user-friendly booking platform positions Simply Me Studios for success in the thriving production facility rental industry.

Business Overview

Simply Me Studios , owned and managed by Liezel Miller and Andrew Miller, is a premier production studio rental that offers cost-effective and flexible solutions for creative professionals and production companies needing a professional space to shoot content, movies, music videos, and other projects. Simply Me Studios is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, allowing clients to work on their projects at their own pace and their own schedule.

Located in New York City, New York, a well-known arts and entertainment hub, the Company will primarily target content creators, musicians, influencers, production companies, and other creatives in the area. Simply Me Studios will feature four versatile pre-lit studios, each big enough to accommodate two sets and equipment, allowing a wide range of production needs to be met. The studios will be equipped with the latest technology in production, including high-definition cameras, lighting, soundproofing, and more, to ensure clients have everything they need to produce high-quality content.

The Company will list the studios on Peerspace, an online platform for booking spaces for events and productions, making it convenient for clients to view the studio, check availability, and make a booking.

Simply Me Studios is set to launch on May 1, 2022, following the renovation of the leased location. For the studios to fully serve their purpose, the Company will need additional funding to cover start-up costs. These costs include the following:

production studio business plan pdf

Mission Statement

The Company’s mission is to support the creative process of content creators and production companies by providing state-of-the-art, professional and fully-equipped soundstages and studios with cost-effective, flexible, and 24/7 access options.

Vision Statement 

The Company’s vision is to be the leading provider of soundstages and studio spaces for production companies, content creators, influencers, photographers, and other creatives, by fostering a vibrant community of innovation and inspiration. The Company’s vision is to create an environment where talent can flourish, and ideas can take shape, enabling creators to bring their vision to reality.

Core Values

Creativity and Innovation: The Company is dedicated to staying current with the latest industry trends and technologies, providing clients with the most advanced solutions to help them achieve their creative goals. By fostering a culture of creativity and innovation, the Company can empower clients to push the boundaries of what is possible and reach their full creative potential.

Quality and Professionalism: The Company is committed to providing the highest quality and professionalism in all aspects of service. This includes using the latest and best equipment, providing exceptional customer service, and ensuring clients have a positive experience while using the studio. Moreover, the Company strictly follows industry standards and provides clients with the necessary resources to create professional-grade content. 

Community and Collaboration: The Company fosters a community of creative professionals and industry enthusiasts who can come together to share resources, knowledge and skills. By providing opportunities for clients to network, collaborate and build relationships with other professionals in the industry, the Company will enable clients to expand their professional network and grow their creative endeavors.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: The Company aims to promote a culture of inclusivity and acceptance where everyone, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or any other personal characteristic, is valued and respected. Furthermore, the Company strives to create a safe and welcoming environment that empowers clients to express themselves freely and authentically without fear of discrimination or prejudice.

Responsiveness and Flexibility: The Company is committed to being agile and adaptable in an ever-changing industry. This commitment is reflected in the Company’s dedication to understanding clients’ unique needs and promptly tailoring its services and offerings to best support their success. By being responsive and flexible, the Company can provide clients with a personalized experience that enables them to achieve their creative goals more efficiently.

Continuous Improvement: The Company is dedicated to staying ahead of the curve in the constantly evolving creative community. Therefore, the Company actively seeks ways to enhance its studio spaces, services and customer experience. Through this approach, the Company can empower clients to reach their full potential and remain a trusted partner in their creative journey.

Goals and Objectives

production studio business plan pdf

Market Analysis

The market analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of the current market conditions and opportunities for growth for Simply Me Studios in New York City, New York. This section includes an overview of the industry, an analysis of the target market and an evaluation of the competition. By understanding the market conditions and trends, this analysis will help the Company make informed decisions and develop a strategic plan to capitalize on the market opportunity. 

Market Trends 

The Creative Class Group defines ‘Creators’ as Creators as those who use digital technology to make and publish unique creative content, whether in the form of video, film, art, music, design, text, games or any other media that audiences can access and respond to. Creators monetize their efforts through memberships, subscriptions, digital tips, advertising, brand partnerships, endorsements, direct funding from platforms, and other forms of digital payment.

The Creator Economy is the broader economic and social infrastructure that supports Creators’ work. It includes the technological and economic ecosystem in which Creators do their work and engages their audiences, such as Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, LinkedIn, Substack, and Patreon; the digital tools that Creators use; startup companies; and the broader infrastructure of people and companies that support Creators’ efforts to do their work and generate revenue.

The creator economy is forecasted to reach over $100 billion, according to exploratory studies done by NeoReach. Data reviewed in the study suggests that there are between 30 and 85 million creators in the United States alone and around 300 million globally, with as many as 17 million earning money from digital content as of 2017. Up to 60 million Americans now make up the “Creative Class,” representing more than 40% of the national workforce and an increase from 15% in 1980.

Age Distribution of Creators

The survey conducted by ConvertKit on established Creators revealed that the average age among Creators is relatively advanced. As illustrated in Figure 1, nearly half of the surveyed Creators fall within the age range of 31 to 60. The largest demographic, accounting for approximately 30%, are individuals between the ages of 31 and 40. Subsequently, Creators within the age range of 41 to 50 constitute nearly 25% of the sample, while those between 51 and 60 make up approximately 20%. Creators between the ages of 25 and 30 constitute less than 15% of the sample. Individuals between 61 and 70 years old represent a small percentage, between 5-10%, and those below 25 constitute less than 5%. This demographic trend likely reflects the fact that the survey was limited to ConvertKit users, who tend to be more established or professional Creators.

Influencer Categories

Creators not only differ by the media they use but by the topics and subject matter they address, which runs the gamut from books, music, and TV and film to news, business, politics, science, and sports to popular culture, beauty and fashion, lifestyle, parenting, home improvement, travel, food and restaurants, fitness, pets, astrology, parenting, humor, games, and more. A 2021 survey by Werner Geyser arrayed Instagram influencers into 10 key categories or verticals, with the most significant shares in lifestyle, beauty, and music, followed by photography and family, and then humor, shows, modelling, film actors and actresses, and fitness. 

Contrary to popular belief, a significant proportion of content creators, similar to other members of the creative class, are driven by intrinsic motivations. While financial gain is a consideration, the overwhelming majority prioritize pursuing their passions, working on projects that align with their values, connecting with like-minded individuals, and engaging in challenging, stimulating, and enjoyable work. Additionally, a high degree of autonomy over their schedules is also a priority for content creators.

According to the Adobe survey, a greater proportion of Non-Gen Z content creators listed self-expression (48%), enjoyment (43%), passion (40%), and challenge (34%) as their primary motivations, compared to the 26% who cited financial gain as their primary motivation. Additionally, 20% of content creators in the survey stated that their primary motivation was to advance a social cause or issue. The survey further found that content creators motivated by social causes aim to increase awareness and make it easier for others to support those causes.

Streaming services are growing due to the insatiable demand for content and the desire of traditional media companies to monetize the digital distribution of content. A recent study from Deloitte found that 57% of all current U.S. streaming consumers (and 71% of millennials ages 22-35) stated that they subscribed to streaming video services to access original content.

The competition between legacy media companies and streaming players is intensifying, as evidenced by the heavy investment in original content and product offerings. According to projections by the Consumer Technology Association, spending on streaming services and software is expected to reach a record high of $112 billion in 2021, representing an 11% increase over 2020. This investment in content is a major driver of growth in global screen production expenditure, which was $177 billion in 2019 prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The United States is the leading originator and undertaker of global screen production expenditure, with Canada and the UK being the primary beneficiaries of cross-country spending on production. Together, these three countries accounted for 63% of global screen production in 2019, with the US contributing 40%, the UK 12%, and Canada 11%.

As content creators rely on studio soundstages to meet their production needs, the high cost of production is causing a shortage of space in major production hubs, indicating a need for the services that Simply Me Studios offers.

Another study from Deloitte noted the following trends that impact the supply and demand dynamics for production studio spaces:

Continued Shortage of Soundstage Space

The entertainment industry is experiencing a significant shift as streaming companies and traditional media corporations are swiftly securing soundstage facilities to produce a greater volume of content. While there has been a notable increase in demand for these resources, the supply of soundstages in major production centers such as New York City, Toronto, and London has remained relatively steady. This has resulted in an unprecedented utilization rate for soundstages, with many operating at near maximum capacity. According to Carl Muhlstein, International Director at JLL, soundstages that were historically operating at a utilization rate of approximately 70% are now operating at nearly 100% capacity.

Growth has accelerated, particularly in London and Toronto with a corresponding 2-3% and 7-8% CAGR, respectively, from 2015 to 2020, as content creators have turned to these markets to meet their production requirements. Due to the lack of purpose-built facilities, producers were forced to film in warehouses and other locations. Purpose-built facilities, such as soundstages, are highly sought after as they provide a versatile environment for various creative endeavors. Soundstages, in particular, offer the greatest degree of control and flexibility for altering the look and feel of a location. These facilities can be located in either purpose-built production facilities or warehouse-type buildings, with the former commanding higher rates and being the preferred choice for prominent content creators.

Long-term Leases Intensify the Competition

The surge in original content production has led to an increase in the number of content creators signing long-term leases at production facilities to guarantee access to soundstages. This strategy has proven beneficial for content creators as it provides them with a consistent source of stage space and eliminates the financial risk associated with owning or building their own facilities. The trend of long-term leases began in New York City, with Netflix renting space at Sunset Bronson in 2016 and Amazon Studios renting space at Culver Studios in 2018.

As the demand for content continues to grow, the trend has expanded globally, with content creators seeking locations with availability for long-term leases outside traditional production hubs. While this approach has been advantageous for content creators who have secured space, it has also made it increasingly difficult for other productions to find available studios.

Other industry players are expected to follow suit, leading to a further constraint on available resources. This may require expanding filming locations beyond traditional areas and allocating additional funds towards expanding studio space. Alternatively, creators may be compelled to consider filming in less popular markets to stay within budget constraints.

Influx of Investment to Meet the Rising Demand for Production Studio Space

There has been a significant increase in investment activity in major production hubs as studios capitalize on the high demand for content. Investors also recognize the appeal of the studio production market, as it offers higher rates per square foot than other industries and offers a means to diversify real estate portfolios, particularly in light of the decline in office space demand brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Private equity firms, such as Hackman Capital and Blackstone, have acquired several top stages, recognizing the value in the growing industry where supply is highly limited. The level and manner of entry into the market vary across New York City, Toronto, and London, as it depends on the specific market conditions in each city.

An additional 1.36 million square feet of soundstage supply is expected to become available by 2023 across the three production hubs, representing a 28% increase from 2020 supply, driven by a 77% increase in London and a 46% growth in Toronto.

Demand for Production Studios 

New York City is considered the production center of the world. It boasts the largest number of soundstages and soundstage space of any city, yet studios are still operating at near 100% capacity with waitlists 4-5 productions deep for soundstage space. Despite the constrained supply, LA has faced challenges in increasing its soundstage supply due to the saturated 30-Mile Studio Zone (TMZ), which dictates union pay rates. Shooting outside of this zone is considered “on location” and can result in significant additional costs for productions.

While investment activity in New York City has increased in recent years, new additions, conversions, and expansions have not been sufficient to meet the demand for space. According to Deloitte’s analysis of the supply pipeline and projected demand needs across films and episodic content, demand for soundstage space in New York City is expected to outpace supply through 2025 significantly.

Key Competitors

According to Peerspace, 106 production studios and 40 production sets are listed near New York City, New York. These competitors offer similar services as Simply Me Studios, such as hourly rental of the production studio, including the cameras, lights, sound and other production equipment. Although each of these studios provides unique and distinctive services and are not direct substitutes for one another, they still pose a significant level of competition for the Company.

These competitors have already established a foothold in the market and have built a reputation among customers, which gives them a head start in terms of brand recognition and customer acquisition. Simply Me Studios will have to work hard to distinguish itself from these competitors and position itself as a reputable and reliable option in the industry to attract customers and gain market share.

Some of the identified competitors offering production studio rental in a similar price range as the Company include the following:

ABC Media, located in New York City, is a film and photography studio that offers a variety of pre-lit bare spaces that can be customized to meet the specific needs of their clients. This competitor’s largest studio spans over 4,700 square feet and can comfortably accommodate a capacity of 300 people, making it ideal for large-scale productions. ABC Media’s rental rates, as listed in Peerspace, range from $85 to $150 per hour.

PM Studio , located in Van Nuys, is a full-functioning film studio that offers a variety of pre-built sets designed by an industry-leading cinematographer. PM Studio also boasts a 4,000 square feet open warehouse where sets can be customized or built from scratch. This competitor’s rental rates, as listed in Peerspace, range from $175 to $1400 per hour.

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Products and Services

Production Studio Rental

Simply Me Studios offers four distinct and versatile production studios for rent, providing creative professionals and production companies with a professional and cost-effective space to shoot content, movies, music videos, and other projects.

Each studio is spacious and designed to accommodate two sets, meeting various production needs. The studios are also equipped with high-definition cameras, professional lighting equipment, and soundproofing to ensure the best possible lighting conditions and audio quality for clients’ creative endeavors. In addition, the studios have a green room, a makeup room, and a kitchen area for the convenience of all talents and crew.

Pricing Model

production studio business plan pdf

Competitive Advantages  

Versatility of the Production Studios: Each studio is designed to provide clients with complete creative freedom and flexibility. In today’s entertainment industry, where the number of content creators is increasing, and competition is fierce, this feature will be particularly appealing to clients who aspire to create unique and distinct content that will set them apart from the rest.

30-Mile Studio Zone (TMZ): The TMZ was created to establish a reasonable distance for union workers to travel to and from the production site without additional compensation. Because productions outside this zone require higher wages for union workers, many productions remain in the Studio Zone. As a facility located within the TMZ, the Company is able to provide access to union labor at standard rates to producers and other content creators. This allows clients to save money on labor costs, making Simply Me Studios an attractive option for their production needs.

Cost-effective Rates: The Company’s pricing model is based on a flat-fee structure, which allows clients to control their costs and avoid unexpected expenses. Instead of charging by the project, the Company’s pricing model charges by the hour with no minimum or maximum contract length. This will allow clients to choose the duration of their project, which will be especially appealing for those working on smaller budget projects who want to avoid high up-front costs.

Key Success Factors

Booking Channel: The Company will make its studios available for booking on Peerspace, a popular online platform for finding and reserving unique spaces for a variety of creative and professional purposes. With a significant user base, Peerspace offers a valuable opportunity for the Company to reach a large audience of potential clients, as demonstrated by the platform’s 1.6 million visits in November 2022, with the United States accounting for 82.5% of the total.

Technology and Equipment: The Company will offer a comprehensive solution for clients’ photography and filming needs by equipping the studio with professional cameras, lighting, backdrops and props. Using the most modern technology and equipment will attract and retain customers looking for the best in the industry and establish a reputation for high-quality equipment and facilities, which will lead to repeat customers and positive word-of-mouth marketing.

Marketing Strategy: The Company’s marketing strategy focuses on building genuine connections with its target market through a combination of organic and targeted tactics. These tactics include leveraging social media platforms and influencer partnerships, creating relevant content, engaging with potential through events, and utilizing targeted advertising and email campaigns to reach specific demographics within the entertainment industry. By focusing on building relationships and providing value to customers, the Company will establish a strong brand reputation and generate repeat business.

Strategic Location: New York City, New York, is known for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene, making it an ideal location for the Company to conduct its business. Being situated in a hub of creative activity will allow the Company to tap into a large and diverse pool of potential clients and collaborators.

Sales and Marketing Plan

Simply Me Studios has developed a comprehensive sales and marketing plan to ensure the success of its success. The Company will establish a strong presence on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and Twitter, four of the most used social media networks in the United States, to effectively reach its target audience and ensure sustained revenues. To drive sales and increase profits, the Company will implement high-value marketing activities targeted at its identified target consumer group. Moreover, Simply Me Studios will implement a comprehensive marketing strategy, utilizing a mix of organic and paid tactics to attract new customers and drive repeat business. 

Key performance indicators (KPIs) have also been established to provide the Company with clear and measurable targets to work towards and valuable data for analyzing the success of its marketing strategy. The sales and marketing strategy of the Company will be regularly reviewed and enhanced to ensure it stays aligned with the Company’s goals.

Target Customers and Key Channels

Business to Consumer (B2C)

Content Creators

Content creators are individuals or groups who produce digital content for various platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and more. They are often known for their niche areas of expertise and have a large following on social media. They create a wide variety of content, including videos and images, and use these platforms to share their knowledge, ideas, and experiences with their audience.

Content creators are a growing segment of the digital market. According to a survey of US internet users conducted in December 2021, nearly a quarter created video content for upload on social media platforms or the web. More than half of respondents between the ages of 18 and 34 said they had created video content for the internet at least once, while only 31% of those between the ages of 35 and 54 said the same.

Furthermore, according to a report from Statista, New York was ranked first in terms of having the most creators in this new creative economy. New York alone had 3.26 million content creators earning a living through digital platforms during the most recent measurement period. An estimated 16.98 million Americans made money from their independent, personal creations on select digital platforms.

With the digital space becoming more competitive, content creators are facing increasing pressure to produce high-quality and visually stunning content in order to stand out and attract more viewers, making this segment an ideal target market for Simply Me Studios. 

Musicians are artists who create and perform music for various audiences through live performances or recorded music. This market segment often has a strong following and fan base, and their music can be shared and consumed through various channels such as streaming services, YouTube, and social media platforms. Musicians often require professional recording spaces to produce high-quality music and music videos.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2021, New York holds the second-highest number of musicians in the United States, with approximately 3,230 musicians and singers calling it home. These musicians and singers earn an average hourly wage of $48.50, with the majority of them working in the performing arts industry. The New York City-Long Beach-Anaheim metropolitan area has the highest concentration of musicians and singers in New York, followed by the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward metropolitan area.

Music videos play a crucial role in the success of a musician’s career, serving as a powerful tool for both exposure and revenue. These videos are often created and released during the initial phase of a song’s promotion, with the goal of increasing the reach of the artist’s music through various channels. Whether through television airplay, streaming platforms or public performances, music videos offer fans an additional way to engage with the artist’s music. For musicians who have videos with viral appeal, music videos can be a game-changer. Numerous examples of these have been observed in recent years, with artists like Gotye and Ylvis achieving massive success through their music videos.

Overall, music videos are an essential component of musicians’ marketing strategy, making this market segment a highly lucrative opportunity for Simply Me Studios.

Influencers

Influencers are individuals who have a large social media following and can influence their followers’ purchasing decisions through the content they post and share. They can be found across various platforms, including Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Twitter, and often have a specific niche or area of expertise, such as fashion, beauty, travel, or fitness. They may also collaborate with brands and companies to promote products or services to their followers.

New York is a major hub for influencers. As per data from Heepsy, there are 207,290 Instagram personalities and creators based in New York, with the highest concentration located in New York City – the country’s center of film and television. Similarly, it is increasingly apparent that the younger generation, specifically Gen Z, is captivated by the lifestyle of influencers. According to a recent survey by Higher Visibility, one in four individuals between the ages of 16 and 25 aspire to become influencers. This trend is particularly prevalent in New York City, where 30% of Gen Z individuals are attracted to the prospect of internet fame. Furthermore, many respondents of the survey have the perception that the average income of an influencer ranges from $75,001 to $100,000.

Influencers do not necessarily need to use professional studios to create content, but it can be beneficial for them to do so. Professional studios are equipped with high-quality equipment and lighting that can elevate the final product and give it a more polished and professional appearance. Furthermore, professional studios have an array of backdrops and sets that can be utilized to produce diverse looks, which can assist influencers in keeping their content fresh and engaging. This presents an opportunity for Simply Me Studios to target this market segment and provide influencers with the means to create professional, high-quality content that stands out.

Business to Business (B2B)

Production Companies

Production companies specialize in creating and developing various forms of media content, such as film, television, video, and digital media. They are responsible for the overall production process, including financing, script development, casting, filming, post-production, and distribution. They often work with writers, directors, producers, and other key players in the industry to bring a project from concept to completion. Some production companies also specialize in specific areas, such as animation, commercials, or music videos. They may also have in-house facilities such as soundstages and editing suites and provide equipment rental and post-production services.

As reported by IBISWorld, the Movie and Video Production industry in the United States has exhibited stable growth over the past five years. In 2023, 6,258 businesses were operating within the industry, representing a slight increase of 0.3% from the previous year. Among these businesses, New York holds the highest concentration with 1,833 or 29% of the total. With a substantial proportion of production companies operating within the state, Simply Me can secure a favorable position within the industry by catering to local demand.

Key Channels

Marketing Channels

Social Media

The Company will use social media to increase the visibility and reputation of Simply Me Studios. Rather than targeting a specific demographic or geographic area, the strategy will focus on building connections with potential clients who need the Company’s production studios.

To implement the social media marketing strategy, the Company will create and share curated posts with content that is relevant, interesting, and emotionally engaging for the target market. The Company will make use of current social media trends to capture the attention of its target clientele, such as:

  • Instagram and Facebook posts for various shareable content
  • Instagram Stories, Facebook Stories and Tiktoks for featuring clients’ behind-the-scenes
  • Instagram Reels, Youtube Shorts, Tiktoks for showcasing Simply Me Studios’ unique selling points
  • Youtube Videos for in-depth content such as featured artists, content creators and other talents using the Company’s facilities
  • Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok Live for Q&A sessions

The Company will also join social media groups and engage with other businesses in the industry with the same target market as the Company to penetrate the network of entertainment professionals. The Company will use industry-related hashtags to reach a larger audience and launch paid social media campaigns directed at people who are likely to be interested in the Company’s facilities.

As part of its social media strategy, the Company will also leverage user-generated content (UGC). UGCs are customer-generated content about a brand or product that can be used in marketing campaigns or shared on social media. By utilizing UCGs, the Company will be able to build a community around the brand, which is vital for success in today’s digital economy. UGCs also aid in establishing credibility and trust among clients seeking information from a source other than advertising.

Additionally, the Company will pay close attention to what its followers say by frequently monitoring and engaging in the comment sections. In this way, the Company can determine what type of content its followers want to see more of to keep them engaged for the long haul. Moreover, social media platforms will enable interaction with clients and serve as channels for asking questions about the Company’s facilities, providing feedback and reviews, and making suggestions.

Ultimately, this strategy will benefit the Company by cultivating an organic following and promoting Simply Me Studios in a genuine manner. It will also foster trust between the clients and the Company, resulting in increased sales and customer loyalty with minimal expenditure.

The Company will develop a web and mobile-friendly website that contains all of the Company’s information. The website will lure traffic from search engines and social media, enabling the Company to showcase its facilities.

The Company will increase website traffic through search engine optimization (SEO). To generate new leads, the Company will prioritize organic SEO, using organic and non-spammy methods. This strategy will allow the Company to establish a solid reputation in its target community by giving the impression that it is not attempting to trick the audience into purchasing something they do not want or need.

SEO keywords will be embedded into the website’s content. This will include blogs and articles designed to educate, inform, and entertain potential clients. By keeping its content fresh and relevant, the Company will be able to increase the number of people who discover it through online searches. In addition, pay-per-click (PPC) advertisements will supplement the Company’s SEO efforts and boost its search rankings.

Using both SEO and PPC will help the business in reaching a larger audience. This will increase brand awareness, boost traffic, and increase the target audience’s visibility of the Company’s facilities, ultimately driving sales.

Email Marketing

Email marketing is a more personal form of communication that will allow the Company to reach out to potential clients who have already shown interest in its services. To implement the email marketing efforts, the Company will add an engaging landing page to the website and rely on it to generate a considerable number of leads. In addition, the Company will include opt-in forms and calls-to-action on its website, encouraging visitors to sign up for email updates, newsletters, or special offers. 

Once the Company has a list of email leads, it can use email marketing software to create and send targeted campaigns to these individuals. The campaigns can include various content, such as newsletters, promotional offers, or educational resources. By providing valuable and relevant content, the Company can keep its email subscribers engaged and nurture them toward becoming paying customers. In addition, the Company can use email marketing to drive traffic back to its website and encourage further engagement with the brand.

Additionally, the Company will use email marketing to segment its audience and create personalized campaigns based on the interests and needs of specific groups of subscribers. This can help increase the relevance and impact of the Company’s emails and drive even better results.

Overall, the Company’s email marketing efforts will result in increased rentals, enhanced customer engagement, and a more significant number of conversions, ultimately leading to an increase in revenue. 

Community Involvement

Simply Me Studios will actively participate in local events, such as charities, festivals, and cultural events, to build connections within the entertainment industry. The Company also will seek out opportunities to form partnerships with production companies and other entertainment organizations and offer exclusive deals or promotions to promote the Company’s facilities.

In addition, the Company will collaborate with notable entertainment personalities and influencers within the community to establish its reputation as a reputable and credible provider of production studio rentals. These partnerships will enhance the Company’s credibility and provide valuable exposure to potential clients seeking professional-grade facilities.

Overall, Simply Me Studios’ community involvement strategy will be an effective way to build relationships, increase brand awareness and generate leads for the Company. Through active engagement in the community, the Company will be able to present itself as a respected and trusted member of the entertainment industry, positioning it for long-term success.

Sales Channel

Simply Me Studios will utilize Peerspace, a leading online marketplace for event and production space rentals, as a key component of its sales strategy. The Company will list its facilities on Peerspace and regularly update the listing with high-quality photos and detailed descriptions of the space, amenities, and services offered.

To increase visibility and attract potential clients, the Company will optimize its Peerspace listing with relevant keywords and tags. The Company will also actively market its Peerspace listing through targeted online advertising and email campaigns, reaching potential clients who are actively searching for soundstages and production studios in the TMZ area.

Listing on Peerspace will provide the Company access to a large and diverse customer base, as the platform has a wide reach and attracts a variety of clients from different industries and backgrounds. The platform also offers a user-friendly booking process and a built-in messaging system for easy client communication.

While Peerspace charges 15% of the service price, the platform offers “Peerspace Host Insurance Policy”, which protects hosts for up to $1,000,000 for general liability claims. This means that every booking made on Peerspace is covered automatically, providing the Company with added peace of mind and protection. 

Overall, utilizing Peerspace’s tools and resources, Simply Me Studios can streamline its sales process and increase its chances of booking successful events and productions.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Simply Me Studios will measure its performance using the following KPIs:

production studio business plan pdf

SWOT Analysis

production studio business plan pdf

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Operational plan.

The operational plan outlines the daily operations and procedures for Simply Me Studios. It includes details on the Company’s hours of operation, business registration, and important regulatory guidelines that must be adhered to to ensure compliance and provide a safe working environment for all staff and clients. The plan also outlines the procedures for dealing with risks and operational issues that may arise. By clearly defining and communicating these operational procedures, Simply Me Studios aims to ensure efficient and smooth operations, contributing to its overall success.

Hours of Operation

​​Simply Me Studios will operate on a 24/7 schedule, allowing for maximum flexibility and convenience for clients. This approach will allow clients to book the Company’s facilities according to their schedules and deadlines without the limitations of traditional business hours. Additionally, the 24/7 operation will also allow for last-minute bookings and accommodate clients with unexpected schedule changes.

production studio business plan pdf

Health and Safety Rights

Cal/OSHA, also known as the New York Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is responsible for enforcing safety and health regulations in New York workplaces. According to Cal/OSHA, every employee has the right to a safe and healthy work environment. This includes the right to:

  • Receive information and training about workplace hazards, including how to prevent injuries and illnesses
  • Report an injury or illness without fear of retaliation
  • Review records of workplace injuries and illnesses
  • File a complaint with Cal/OSHA if they believe their workplace is unsafe
  • Receive copies of test results done to find and measure hazards in the workplace.

Cal/OSHA also has the right to inspect any workplace in New York to ensure safety and health regulations compliance. Employers are required to provide Cal/OSHA with access to the workplace and records related to workplace safety and health. Employers who violate Cal/OSHA regulations can face penalties, fines, and criminal charges.

The Company recently acquired a building at 5963 Albany Ave. in New York City. This prime location places the Company in close proximity to major entertainment industry players and production studios, providing easy access and convenience for clients. This strategic positioning allows the Company to capitalize on the high demand for production facilities in the area and attract a diverse range of clients from the entertainment industry.

Risk Analysis

production studio business plan pdf

Personnel Plan

The personnel plan outlines the strategies and tactics for managing and developing the human capital of Simply Me Studios. The Company will maintain a flexible and agile workforce that can meet the demands of the ever-changing industry. The Company plans to do this by recruiting new talent, training existing employees and providing opportunities for advancement. 

Organizational Structure

The structure is designed to support the Company’s operations and goals efficiently. As the Company grows, the management team will periodically review the organizational structure and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that it remains aligned with the Company’s evolving needs. This will ensure that the company is well-equipped to handle any challenges that may arise and that the workforce is organized in a way that is conducive to achieving success.

Management Team

Simply Me Studios will be managed by Owner and Director Liezel Miller, who will be joined by her business partner, Andrew Miller. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table and will be responsible for driving the company towards success by developing and executing strategies to help achieve the Company’s goals and objectives.

During the start-up phase, the management team will be responsible for the Company’s overall operations. As the Company grows, the duties and responsibilities of the management team will include the following:

  • Overseeing the operations of the Company and providing guidance to key managers to ensure they are effectively leading the branches of the Company
  • Making strategic business decisions and allocating resources to achieve Company goals
  • Raising capital and securing funding for the Company
  • Building and maintaining relationships with key clients and industry leaders
  • Ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations to ensure the smooth operation of the Company
  • Continuously monitoring and analyzing market trends and making adjustments to the Company’s strategies as needed
  • Communicating regularly with all stakeholders, including shareholders, employees, and clients, to ensure that they are informed of the Company’s performance and progress
  • Designing and executing new projects and initiatives to help the company grow and improve
  • Managing the overall financial performance and budget of the company

production studio business plan pdf

Employee Recruitment Plan

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Financial Plan

Pro Forma Income Statement

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Short Film Business Plan - Featured Image - StudioBinder

How to Write a 4-Part Film Business Plan That Gets You Funding

ou’ve got an awesome concept for a short film.  Congratulations!  Now you need a short film business plan.

Perhaps your idea just came to you out of the blue, perhaps you’ve developed it with my systematic process. Either way, you want to know what the first step towards turning your idea into an actual movie is.

Well, it’s not one step. It’s four.

There’s No Such Thing as a “Short Film Business Plan”

Don’t plan the oscar party yet, what are the pieces of a film production business plan.

  • A Film Synopsis for Your Target Market

The Roadmap and Compass of your Film Production

  • Funding your Short Film
  • Film Distribution
  • The Short Film Business Plan

 4-Part Film Business Plan That Gets You Funding

But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare one!

The term “Business Plan” comes out of the corporate world. It refers to a document that is prepared before a business launches.

Short Film Business Plan - Boromir - StudioBinder

Short Film Business Plan - Boromir - StudioBinder

  • The document describes what the business will do, how it will do it, how much money it needs, and how it expects to recoup that money. Business plans are shown to investors to help them determine whether or not to invest in a company. They are also useful guides for new employees to understand the company’s mission and purpose. Your short films ideas generally won’t make money. That’s not typically their purpose. But that doesn’t mean that the content of a short film business plan isn’t an important part of how to make a short film! It can:
  • Clarify your purpose, define your process and articulate your film’s potential.
  • Inspire donors, supporters or high-value collaborators to join the project.
  • Communicate your film’s purpose to your cast and crew, to make sure you’re all working towards a common goal.
  • Define the film’s marketing angle, to inspire festivals to screen it or to inspire audiences to check it out.

Most importantly, defining your plan will give you the framework and focus to make sure you keep yourself on-track.

 4-PART FILM BUSINESS PLAN THAT GETS YOU FUNDING

We’re all dreamers in this business - how can we be anything else? But as tempting as the dreams of success and creative freedom may be, we’ve got to remember to take the first steps first.

A few years ago, I wrote a short film and got very excited about casting it.

There was a perfect role in the film for an old legend - an actor in his 80s or 90s. Perhaps an Oscar winner, someone who was once a luminary in Hollywood, but who’s probably not very busy anymore.

I spent my time thinking of great actors. The ones who starred in the classic films that I loved as a kid. I looked up which of them might still be alive and willing to work for a day.

It was thrilling to imagine directing these men… but did I ever make that film?

You see, I skipped a vital step. I never really worked through the “film business plan” - the part of development where a producer figures out how and why the film will attract funding, and how and where it will reach its audience.

So what’s the first step? Let’s take a look at the big picture first.

Your plan should consist  of these four pieces:

Short Film Business Plan - 4 Keys - StudioBinder

Short Film Business Plan - 4 Keys - StudioBinder

Before we dive into these sections individually, there’s something important we need to understand that will tie them all together.

All of the pieces of your short film’s business plan connect in some way to your target market.

TARGET MARKET

Your target market is the audience (or audiences) that are most likely to seek out and enjoy your film.

A film about bullying might target high-school-age YouTubers (a demographic group, defined by age).

On the other hand, a film that takes place on a spaceship as it approaches an alien planet might target the sci-fi market (not a demographic group, but an interest group).

While a film about a gay Jewish boxer might have several simultaneous target markets.

  • Jewish (a religious group)
  • LGBT (a cause-oriented group, but also a group defined by lifestyle and social structure)
  • Sports (an interest group)

In that last case, it’s helpful to know which is the dominant audience for the film. Is it more of a Jewish film? More of an LGBT-themed film? More of a sports film?

It’s also useful to understand where and how the markets intersect. There are many active Jewish LGBT organizations - not nearly as many Jewish/sports organizations.

If you’ve selected one your short film ideas with your target market in mind, this step will be easy.

If not, you’ve got to answer the following question:

What audience group is most likely to show interest in this film?

Once you know who you’re making your movie for, you can develop a specific strategy for crafting a film for them. And here’s the magical secret of this process:

The money and resources for your film will come from a subset of your target market.

Short Film Business Plan - Monopoly - StudioBinder

This individual is key to many a short film business plan.

Once you know your target market, you can get specific about the elements of your short film business plan:

  • What film are you making (for your target market)? What short film ideas appeal to them?
  • How much money do you need (to pay for the elements that your target market will expect)?
  • Where (from within your target market) will you raise funds or gather resources?
  • How will you release your film (so your target market can see it)?

A SIDEBAR ON THE “ISSUE” FILM

If you’re making a film with a particular social or political cause, you might want your film to reach an audience that isn’t a natural fit.

Let’s say one of your film ideas would shed light on the plight of the  Yazidi  people who are facing severe persecution in parts of the Middle East. That’s essentially your logline.

The Yazidi already know this story - they aren’t your target audience.

But the people who you’re trying to influence, perhaps middle-class American voters, might not have a natural interest in the story. So how can you interest them in your film?

The answer can be hard to do, but it’s pretty straightforward:

Define your film for your target market.

This hypothetical film’s logline is “a film to shed light on the plight of the Yazidi people”. The logline could also be “a harrowing tale of survival in an exotic and faraway land”.

One description is very specific to people who know and care about the Yazidi situation. The other might appeal to a much broader audience.

If your intended audience doesn't match your subject matter, you need to make sure that you can frame the film in a way that appeals to them.

If you don’t, your film will never reach the people it was made for.

Now we can get into the details of your short film business plan.

A Film Synopsis for Your Target Market 

Whether you’re working off of a written screenplay, or you have yet to commission a screenwriter, you already know the story of your film. Before you can get into the details of your short film business plan, you need to lay out the story, as you expect it to be told, for others.

There are lots of definitions and “rules” when it comes to writing a feature film synopsis, especially if you plan to use it to pitch or promote your film.

But since we’re creating a short film business plan, you might be reassured to remember that there are no rules here.

That said, the purpose of this business plan may help guide you in terms of  short film ideas to work on.

  • The business plan is your personal tool to help keep you focused as you shepherd this short film from development through its release.
  • Your synopsis should be focused. Tell the skeleton of the story. Don’t go into detail.
  • It’s your communications tool, to help describe the project to potential supporters and collaborators.
  • Keep the synopsis short. A 3-5 sentence paragraph might suffice. A logline might be better

Make sure your logline is written with your target market in mind.

Remember: The money and resources for your film will come from a subset of your target market.

You want people in your target market to respond, “wow, it’s like this short film is being made just for me!”

Short Film Business Plan - Audience - StudioBinder

Appealing to the egotism of others: also key to a short film business plan.

In some cases, a synopsis or logline is enough of a description of the project to give people a clear sense of what you’re trying to accomplish.

IF IT LOOKS IMPOSSIBLE, ADDRESS THE IMPOSSIBILITY

Sometimes, it may be worthwhile to write a paragraph or two describing the strategy behind the film production.

This is especially true if there are elements in the logline of the that might make people skeptical of your ability to pull it off.

When I began to raise money for “ The Pirate Captain Toledano ”, the first and obvious question that everyone asked was “how will you shoot this film? It’s set on a pirate ship!”

It was important to preempt that question by explaining that I had already negotiated for not one, but two tall ships where the film could be shot.

production studio business plan pdf

Remember this from my  first article ?

If your film is set in a hard-to-secure location or features elements that are typically expensive or hard to find, write a paragraph or two explaining how you plan to tackle those challenges.

If you don’t tell people what you need, they won’t know how to help you. And if you don’t tell them when you need it, they won’t help you soon enough.

That’s why you need to prepare a preliminary production schedule and a rough budget for your short film project.

At this stage, your production schedule and budget are very speculative. You might not even have a script yet!

That's alright.

SHORT FILM SCHEDULING

You’ve got to put some dates down on a calendar, and some figures down in a spreadsheet. They’ll shift and change, of course, but this starting point will anchor you as the project develops.

For your preliminary schedule, you should look at two factors:

  • When will production happen?
  • How long will production last?

For the first, consider how long it will take you to raise money, assemble a team and line up all the bits and pieces before production can get started.

If you’re a veteran producer, you’ve done all of this before, and can probably estimate the timetable pretty well. If you’re relatively new, consider this guide  to the pre-production process.

It’s written with feature films in mind, so you should be able to take each of those stages and shorten it quite a bit for how to make a short film.

Look at the calendar and pick a reasonable shoot date. It can be vague, too - “we’re aiming to shoot the film in December”.

Just make sure to give yourself enough time to get everything ready!

Don't worry too much if it takes a little longer to raise money. You usually have a lot of flexibility with the shoot date until you start booking locations, cast, crew and equipment.

The exception, of course, is seasonal. If your short film ideas require you to shoot in a snowy field in North Dakota, you can’t push production to July.

PRODUCTION SCHEDULING

The second factor you should look at is the duration of production. If you have a script, you may want to do a preliminary script breakdown and use that to generate a stripboard and schedule.

Software like StudioBinder, Gorilla, and MovieMagic can streamline that process.

But at this early stage, a paper napkin schedule may suffice for your script breakdown.

Other articles on StudioBinder can offer you guidance on  screenplay scheduling . We even have a video on the subject that you may find helpful. 

Starring none other than yours truly!

Even if you don’t have a screenplay yet, you should still have a sense of whether your film can be shot in a day or if it requires a full week.

Again, this can shift and change as your project evolves. You need some starting definitions of your plan and your needs so you can communicate them.

Armed with a preliminary schedule, you can then pull together a rough  film budget for the project.

SHORT FILM BUDGETING

This budget won’t be detailed. That’s okay. In fact, it might be just a budget top sheet.

All you need to know now is the ballpark cost of your project so that you know how much money you need to raise, or how much support you need to inspire.

If you’ve selected your short film concept carefully, you probably have a sense already of how much it’ll cost to pull off. At the very least, you have a sense of how much money you’ll be able to raise for it.

If that’s the case, you might find yourself ‘backing-into’ the film budget. Starting with a bottom-line figure, and massaging the numbers to make them fit that bottom-line.

If you're an experienced producer, you may not need as much detail in your preliminary budget. Your experience will guide you for how much your major budget categories will cost.

But if you’re still new to this, I advise you to take the extra time to budget in more detail.

You only need the top-sheet for your short film business plan. However, the more you familiarize yourself with the details of your budget, the more control you’ll have over it.

Once again, an understanding of your target market will help you here.

If there are certain personalities that your target market responds to, consider setting aside money to hire them.

Are there certain details in the production that your target market would expect to see? Account for them.

Does your target market only read a specific newspaper on Tuesdays? Make sure you’ve budgeted for a full-page ad in the Tuesday edition.

Short Film Business Plan - Newspaper - StudioBinder

I say, have you heard about this short film?

Funding your short film: which tree to shake.

You’ve described your film, set a target shoot date, and prepared a preliminary schedule and a film budget. Now you have a valuable piece of information: How much money you need to pull this off!

There are several ways that filmmakers commonly raise money for short films. Pick a method (or a combination of methods) that works for you, and take a page to describe how you’ll go about it.

Will you run a crowdfunding campaign? Solicit direct contributions from friends and family? Try to get an “investor”? Fund the film yourself?

Whatever fundraising method you choose, go into detail on your strategy. Crowdfunding, in particular, requires rigorous preparation.

An important piece of this process is connecting your fundraising strategy to your target market.

So, who do you know in your target market? What organizations will you connect with? Who in your target market is most likely not just to enjoy the film, but to contribute to its success?

Are there people in your target market who are also in the film industry? Might they be potential collaborators on your short film?

Figure out your strategy, and boil it down to a page.

Film Distribution: A Plan for Connecting Your Film to its Audience

The final piece of your short film business plan is your release strategy. How will you bring your film to the attention of your target market?

Most filmmakers make their shorts without much thought for distribution. As a result, most short films are barely seen by anyone.

People who might consider supporting or joining your short film are more likely to do so if they feel that the project has a strong chance of actually connecting with its audience.

Once again, understanding your target market is critical here. Where do they see short films? Festivals? YouTube? In-flight movies?

Short Film Business Plan - Airplane - StudioBinder

In-flight movies might not be the best idea for your short film business plan, as it is not the 

Wherever they consume this type of media, you’ve got to figure out what it takes to get your film there.

In most cases, your rollout strategy will consist of several steps or stages. For example:

You might want your film available for purchase on Amazon Streaming (through  Amazon Video Direct ).

Maybe you've discovered that your target market seeks out films like yours only if they’ve been covered in certain newspapers, magazines, or blogs.

Look at those publications, and you might find that they only cover short films that appear at certain film festivals.

You now have a film distribution strategy. Start with certain festivals. Combine it with a PR push to specific publications. Finish with a rollout to Amazon Streaming.

Maybe you’re creating a proof-of-concept or a calling card film. Then, your target market is agents, managers, producers and other decision-makers in the industry.

Your choice of festival submissions, screening venues, and the final online platform would be quite different in this case.

Whether you define your release strategy in an outline, a paragraph or two, or a flow chart, make sure you put it down on the page so it can be communicated.

The Short Film Business Plan: Your Communication Tool

Ultimately, your short film business plan is a communications tool, so make sure it says what you want it to say.

Keep it honest. Don’t put down budget numbers that you don’t believe (even if you think they might impress someone!)

Don’t describe the film in a way you can’t relate to (even if you think that’s what your audience will want to hear).

Add graphics, charts, whatever you need in order to communicate what you need to communicate.

In the end, it’s possible no one will see your business plan. It could be just a tool for you, a method of framing up the entire filmmaking process in your mind.

Even if no one else sees this document, it will be of tremendous value in helping you stay on track.

If you put something like this together for your next short film, please let me know how it goes! If you’re still looking for more short film ideas, check out the  first post  in my short film series.

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Film and Video Production Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business Plans » Media Sector

Are you about starting a film and video production company ? If YES, here is a complete sample film and video production business plan template & feasibility study you can use for FREE .

If you have ever come across a movie buff, chances are that you will notice the way at which they are able to analyze a movie for expertise or mediocrity. The truth is that these folks can tell when a movie has been well produced. This is one of the reasons why those who are at the helms of affair in the movie production business try their best to churn out quality stuff.

Starting a film and video production company is one of the best things that may happen to you. This is because of the promising nature of the trade. As a matter of fact millionaires are being made every time in the movie production world. Good news still remains that there are newbies every now and then.

A Sample Film and Video Production Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

We can hardly talk about the film and video production industry without mentioning big players in the industry such as 21 st Century Fox, Time Warner, NBC Universal, The Walt Disney Company and Viacom Inc. et al. These are companies that truly define the trends in the industry.

Basically, film and video production industry is an industry that is responsible for producing and distributing motion pictures and videos. This industry does not include third-party providers such as distributors and disc manufacturers, as well as products, such as television shows and made-for-television movies, aimed specifically toward television et al.

Despite the fact that film and video production business can be expensive to run, the business is indeed a thriving business that has loads of players making huge profits from the industry. One thing is certain, if a film and video production company can successfully produce a major hit movie or musical video; it won’t be too long before video recording contracts come calling from all over the united states and beyond.

Players in the Film and Video Production industry struggled with mounting film production costs and of course the decline in theater/cinema attendance.

It is now common in recent times to find the average movie producers increasingly investing in high – end special effects hence they choose to shift their focus toward generating high ticket sales as against increasing the number of dramas and comedies, which usually generate comparatively lower revenue.

The industry is exploring now maximizing new distribution channels to continue to increase revenue generation so as to break even after spending huge sum of money to produce a movie.

Any entrepreneur who intends to start a film and video production company must be ready to pull enough cash to be able to acquire expensive film and video production gears, for location shooting equipment and professional movie editing software amongst many other expenses associated with movie production.

In other to cut cost especially when starting out, movie producers often rent shooting equipment for a fraction of its cost, which has helped limit the massive capital expenditures that would otherwise be necessary to produce major films.

For instance, in 2015 alone, for every dollar spent on labor, movie producers incur an estimated $0.22 in capital expenditures. In the last five years, capital intensity has remained fairly constant.

The Film and Video Production industry still depend on experts(highly skilled workers and artists) in all stages of the production process, and highly talented and hardworking employees are required for planning, shooting, editing and distributing films.

The Film and Video Production industry is indeed witnessing a steady growth over the years- especially in countries such as the United States, Nigeria, india and China et al. Though for some underdeveloped countries where piracy is still on rampage, the growth is a bit redundant.

Statistics has it that the Film and Video Production industry in the United States of America, is worth $34bn, with an estimated growth rate of 0.7 percent. There are about 6,527 registered and licensed film and video production companies in the United States and they are responsible for employing about 63,228 people.

One good thing about starting a film and video production business is that even if you decided to start it in the United States of America, your market would not be restricted to business opportunities in the U.S.; the world will be your target market.

Many thanks to the internet that has made the world a global village. All you need to do is to strategically position your film and video production brand on the internet and you will be amazed at the rate people will be calling you from all parts of the world.

2. Executive Summary

Film production is one art that requires a ton of skills. This is so that nothing short of the best is produced. Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company is a one stop and standard film and video production company that is fully equipped with the latest technology in the film and video production industry.

Our film and video production studio will be located in the heart of Inglewood, Los Angeles – California, U.S and we are positioned to work for a wide range of client ranging from individual clients to corporate organizations, national clients to international clients and players in the Hollywood industry et al.

Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company will engage in all aspect of business services synonymous to standard organization operating in the film and video production industry.

Our business goal is to work towards becoming one of the leading film and video production brand in the whole of Los Angeles and in the nearest future compete with the leaders in the industry not only in the United States but also in the global stage.

We are not ignorant of the fact that building a standard and world class film and video production company from the scratch requires huge capital base- essentially for the purchase of world – class and latest film and video production equipment; which is why we have perfect plans for steady flow of cash from our business partners with interest in our line of business.

We can confidently say that we have a robust financial standing and we are ready to take on any challenge that we encounter in the industry.

We will ensure that all our employees are selected from a pool of talented and highly creative people with eyes for good movies in and around Los Angeles – California (with bias from Hollywood) and also from any part of the United States.

We will make sure that we take all the members of our workforce through the required trainings that will position them to meet the expectation of the company and to compete with other players in the United States and throughout the globe.

At Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company our client’s best interest will always come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics.

We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely and of course producing movies and videos that can compete with the best in the world. We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living, and living in our world, for our partners, employees and for our clients.

Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company is owned majorly by Macqueen Reeves and other partners. Macqueen Reeves is a certified and licensed film producer, he graduated from New York Film Academy and he has well over 15 years hand on experience in the film and video production industry working for leading film and video producing companies in Hollywood prior to starting his own film and video production company.

He will build the business alongside other experienced partners who have successfully carved a niche for themselves in the industry.

3. Our Products and Services

We do not want to leave any stone unturned when it comes to producing the best products and services. So, Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company is going to offer a variety of services within the scope of the film and video production industry in the United States of America.

Our intention of starting our film and video production business in Inglewood – Los Angele is to make profits from the film and video industry and we will do all that is permitted by the law in the US to achieve our aim and business goals. Our business offering are listed below;

  • Action and adventure films
  • Comedy films
  • Drama films
  • Thriller/suspense films
  • Musical Videos
  • Documentaries
  • Other films (Commercials and Advertisement et al)
  • Creating a timeline of production for film and video and ensuring that timelines are met
  • Seeking financing for film and video productions
  • Producing film and video programming
  • Publicizing film and video productions
  • Distributing film and video (if the company is also involved in all of the above)
  • Film and Video Production Merchandize (Sale of Film and Video Production Equipment)
  • Film and Video Production Consultancy and Advisory Services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

  • Our vision is to build a standard and world – class film and video production business that can favorably compete with leaders in the industry.
  • Our mission is to build a world class and well equipped film and video production company that will produce standard movies that can be generally accepted in all parts of the world; we want to build a film and video production brand that can work for clients not only in the United States of America and Canada, but in all parts of the world.

Our Business Structure

The success of any business is to a larger extent dependent on the business structure of the organization and the people who occupy the available role. Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company will build a solid business structure that can support the growth of our film and video production business.

We will ensure that we hire competent hands to help us build the business of our dream. The fact that we want to become one of the leading film and video production brand in the industry in the whole of the United States of America makes it highly necessary for our organization to deliberately build a well – structured business from the onset.

We will work hard to ensure that we only attract people with the right mindset to help us achieve our business goals and objectives in record time. Below is the business structure that we will build Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company;

  • Chief Executive Officer

Entertainment Lawyer/Legal Secretary

Studio Manager

Film Producer

Recording Engineer

Admin and HR Manager

Marketing and Sales Executive

Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Office:

  • Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
  • Responsible for providing direction for the business
  • Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
  • Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
  • Evaluates the success of the organization
  • Responsible for drawing up contracts and other legal documents for the company
  • Welcomes guests and clients by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
  • Produces information by transcribing, formatting, inputting, editing, retrieving, copying, and transmitting text, data, and graphics; coordinating case preparation.
  • Provides historical reference by developing and utilizing filing and retrieval systems; recording meeting discussions; maintaining transcripts; documenting and maintaining evidence.
  • Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
  • Enhances department and organization reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.
  • Responsible for managing every activities that goes on in the studio
  • Responsible for managing the company’s video editing department
  • Handle any other responsibility as assigned by the Chief Executive Officer
  • Responsible for developing concept and producing movies from start to finish
  • Responsible for choosing the right locations to shoot a movie
  • Works with the accountant and other stakeholders in the company to draw – up a budget for any movie project
  • Responsible for handle any picture and sound related job for the company; helps achieve certain specific sounds or feelings to portray through that matches with the movie (especially for soundtracks).
  • Responsible for handling all aspect of video shooting on locations
  • Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
  • Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
  • Ensures operation of film shooting and studio equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
  • Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
  • Carries out staff induction for new team members
  • Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
  • Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
  • Designs job descriptions with KPI to drive performance management for clients
  • Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of HR Policies, Procedures and Processes
  • Facilitates and coordinates strategic sessions.
  • Works directly with clients in a non-advising capacity, such as answering questions, scheduling appointments and making sure all training concerns are properly taken care off
  • Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.
  • Once the movie is ready, then the marketing team will go out to market and promote the album
  • Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
  • Identifies business opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of music projects.
  • Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients, cinema operators and movie distributors
  • Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
  • Documents all customer contact and information
  • Represents the company in strategic meetings
  • Helps to increase sales and growth for the company
  • Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
  • Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
  • Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
  • Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
  • Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
  • Responsible for administering payrolls
  • Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
  • Handles all financial transactions for the company
  • Serves as internal auditor for the company

Client Service Executive

  • Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In centre, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
  • Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
  • Manages administrative duties assigned by the manager in an effective and timely manner
  • Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the company’s products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries
  • Receives Visitors/clients on behalf of the organization
  • Receives parcels/documents for the company
  • Handles enquiries via e-mail and phone calls for the organization
  • Distribute mails in the organization
  • Handles any other duties as assigned my the line manager

6. SWOT Analysis

Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company engaged the services of a core professional in the area of film and video production consulting and business structuring to assist the organization in building a standard and world – class film and video production company that can favorably compete with other leading film and video production brands in the United States of America.

Part of what the business consultant did was to work with the management of the company in conducting a comprehensive SWOT analysis for Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company;

Our core strength lies in the power of our team and the latest film and video production equipment that we have. We have a team that can go all the way to give our clients value for their money; a team that can produce world class movies that can favorable compete with movies produced by leaders in the industry.

We are well positioned in the heart of Inglewood, Los Angeles and we know we will attract loads of clients from the first day we open our film and video production company for business.

As a new film and video production company based in Los Angeles – the headquarter of film production in the world, it might take some time for our organization to break into the market and attract some well – established artist and bigger corporations and investors; that is perhaps our major weakness. Another weakness is that we may not have the required cash to pump into the promotion our business the way we would want to.

  • Opportunities:

The opportunities in the film and video production industry is massive especially in a place like Los Angeles – California where we have Hollywood, and we are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that comes our way.

We like other brands in the industry, have our own fair share of threats. Hence, technology and the internet which of course is a major tool for the advancement and gains achieved in the film and video production industry can also poses a threat to the industry.

The truth is that with the advancement of technology, it is now easier for individuals to produce home videos and musical videos without the help of professional film and video production companies. So also, just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn.

It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new film and video production company in same location where our target market exist and who may want to adopt same Business model like us.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

  • Market Trends

Online video is one major trend in the film and video production industry. Recent statistics from Comscore show that on an average day in 2011, over 100 million Americans viewed online video content. This represents growth of 43 percent over the previous year.

Well over 43.5 billion videos were streamed in December 2011 alone; a 44 percent increase over the previous year. This growth shows no signs of dwindling, as people increase the absolute number of videos they watch, in addition to viewing longer form content on leading video sites such as Netflix and Hulu.

Entrepreneurs that are venturing into the film and video production industry are coming in with creativity and good business skills. The fact that it is highly competitive in the industry does not in a way stop some film and video production companies from declaring profits year in year out.

Another known trend in the film and video production industry is that most film and video production companies are trying as much as possible to recreate themselves on a regular basis and also to be on top of their game.

8. Our Target Market

When it comes to film and video production business, there are no exemptions to who you can market your services products to especially finished movies. Your movies can be market to adults, children, teenagers, corporate organization, government and everyone who can afford to purchase a movie et al.

Over and above, our target market as a film and video production company cuts across people of different class and people from all walks of life and corporate organizations. In view of that, we have created strategies that will enable us reach out to various corporate organizations and individual who we know will need our products and services.

We have conducted our market research and survey and we will ensure that our film and video production company attracts the kind of artists and clients we would love to work with. Below is a list of the people and organizations that we have specifically market our services to;

  • Advertising Agencies
  • Corporate Organizations (Branding and Advertising Agencies et al)
  • Teenagers, Adults and Children
  • TV stations

Our Competitive Advantage

We are mindful of the fact that there are stiffer competition in the film and video production industry in the United States of America; hence we have been able to hire some of the best business developer to handle our sales and marketing.

Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company might be a new entrant into the film and video production industry in the United States of America, but our competitive advantage lies in the power of our team and the latest film and video production equipment that we have.

We have a team that can go all the way to give our clients value for their money; a team that can produce world class movies that can favorable compete with movies produced by leaders in the industry.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups film and video production companies) in the industry meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

  • Sources of Income

Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the film and video production industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to attract our target market.

Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company will generate income by offering the following services and products;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain when it comes to movies and documentaries; they never dies and the demand for good movies and documentaries will continue to grow. This goes to show that any film and video production company that is known to always produce good movies will continue to attract talented artists, corporate organizations and clients and that will sure translate to increase in revenue generation for the business.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in Los Angeles California and beyond and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow the business and our clientele base beyond Los Angeles – California to other cities in the U.S. and even the global market.

We have been able to critically examine the film and video production market and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to startups in Los Angeles – CA.

Below is the sales projection for Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company, it is based on the location of our business and other factors as it relates to film and video production start – ups in the United States;

  • First Year-: $1M
  • Second Year-: $1.75M
  • Third Year-: $2.5M

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

  • Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the film and video production industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall goal of the organization.

We will also ensure that our excellent movies and videos speaks for us in the market place; we want to build a standard and well equipped film and video production company that will leverage on word of mouth advertisement from satisfied clients/artists.

Our business goal is to build Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company business to become one of the leading choice in the whole of Los Angeles – California which is why we have mapped out strategy that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with not only in the U.S but in the world stage as well.

Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

  • Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to organizations and key stake holders in the film and video industry (movie distributors and cinema operators) in Los Angeles and other parts of the U.S.
  • Advertise our business in relevant entertainment magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and radio station.
  • List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
  • Attend relevant international and local film festivals, expos, seminars, and concerts et al
  • Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets and still produce top notch videos or movies for them
  • Leverage on the internet to promote our business
  • Engage in direct marketing approach
  • Encourage word of mouth marketing from our loyal and satisfied clients

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We are aware that there isn’t any business that despises new clients. This the reason why we have been able to work with brand and publicity specialist to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market.

We are set to take the film and video production industry by storm which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our recording studio company. Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company;

  • Place adverts on both print and electronic media platforms
  • Sponsor relevant TV shows and radio programs
  • Maximize our official website to promote our business
  • Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; YouTube, Instagram, Facebook ,Twitter, LinkedIn, Badoo, Google+ and other platforms (music online forums) to promote our business.
  • Offer Pro Bono services as part of our community social responsibility
  • Ensure that our we position our banners and billboards in strategic positions all around Los Angeles – CA
  • Brand all our official cars/buses and ensure that our trademark label is boldly printed in all our movies and videos (DVDs) et al

12. Our Pricing Strategy

At Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company we will keep our fees and prices of videos a little below the average market rate for all of our clients by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to start – ups, nonprofits, cooperatives, and small social enterprises who engage our services to help to produce movies or short videos especially for advert purposes.

  • Payment Options

At Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company, our payment policy will be all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

  • Payment by via bank transfer
  • Payment via online bank transfer
  • Payment via check
  • Payment via bank draft
  • Payment via mobile money
  • Payment with cash

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

The cost of setting up film and video production business can be quite expensive especially if you are all out to start a standard film and video production company. Aside from the money required to purchase the latest film recording and production equipment, you would also need a huge cash base to be able to attract and pay well established film actors to act in your movies.

Essentially, this is the area we are looking towards spending our start – up capital on;

  • The Total Fee for incorporating the Business in Los Angeles, California – $750.
  • The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license – $2,500
  • The Amount needed to acquire a suitable Office facility with enough space for standard movie production studio in a business district 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive) – $200,000.
  • The Cost for equipping the office (computers, printers, fax machines, furniture, telephones, filing cabins, safety gadgets and electronics et al) – $2,000
  • The cost for equipping the movie production studio with the required video gears – $150,000
  • The Cost of Launching our official Website – $600
  • Budget for paying at least 5 employees for 3 months and utility bills – $100,000
  • Budget for paying actors and taking care of logistics in movie locations – $500,000
  • Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al) – $2,500
  • Miscellaneous – $20,000

Going by the report from the research and feasibility studies, we will need about $1 million to set up a medium scale but standard film and video production company in the United States of America. Here are some of the key film and video production equipment and gear that we would need to set up our film and video production company;

  • Standard Video Cameras
  • Camera lights/Three-Point Lighting Kit
  • Shotgun Mic with boom pole accessories
  • Audio (XLR) Cables
  • Wireless Microphone
  • Lenses: Wide Angle, Clear “Protective” Lens, Polarizer, Zoom Lens, Macros, etc.
  • Light Reflector
  • DSLR Shoulder Mount Rig
  • Video Editing Software and Video Editing Computer (MacBook Pro Laptop / Apple MacBook Pro Laptop)
  • External Hard Drive
  • Digital video workstation

Generating Funding/Startup Capital for Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company

Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company is going to start as a partnership business that will be owned and managed by Macqueen Reeves and his business partners. They are the financial of the business, but may likely welcome other partners later, which is why they have decided to restrict the sourcing of his start – up capital to 3 major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

  • Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings
  • Source for soft loans from family members and friends
  • Apply for loan from my Bank

N.B: We have been able to generate about $500,000 (Personal savings plus funds from business partners) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $500,000 from our bank. All the papers and document has been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to ensure that every movie that we produce is a hit back to back and it appeals to the needs of the society we intend selling the movies

Moonlight™ Film and Video Production Company will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

  • Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
  • Business Incorporation: Completed
  • Renting of Office Facility: Completed
  • Setting Up Of The Recording Studio: In Progress
  • Intellectual Property Protection and Trademark: Completed
  • Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
  • Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
  • Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
  • Application for business license and permit: Completed
  • Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
  • Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
  • Generating part of the start – up capital from the founder: Completed
  • Applications for Loan from our Bankers: In Progress
  • Writing of Business Plan: Completed
  • Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
  • Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
  • Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
  • Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
  • Recruitment of employees: In Progress
  • Purchase of the Needed studio / musical gadgets, furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
  • Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
  • Creating Awareness for the business (Business PR): In Progress
  • Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
  • Establishing business relationship with key players in the industry: In Progress

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Video Television Production Business Plan

Start your own video television production business plan

Evergreen TV Productions

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

EvergreenTV Productions, Inc. is a multi-faceted company, with the potential to branch into new venues as the company grows. There are currently three phases to development, beginning with our home division. By developing this division to include three stores in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area, we can generate enough revenue to assist in the growth of two other divisions; tour and travel, and the business to business division. However, we will need additional funding to accomplish this plan.

The Home Division produces digital video scrapbooks by digitizing customers’ photos, setting them to music, and using selected digital effects to create the video memory. Our operations manual is a business system designed to produce the maximum number of videos per week while maintaining a rigid standard for quality. Using this system, and following this video production business plan, we will generate the revenue needed to allow us flexibility in accepting other projects more commonly associated with a production company, leading into the next division.

The Tour and Travel Division provides specialized production on a wide range of hand-picked projects, depending upon the client’s needs. This division creates videos of local interest for play in doctors offices’ waiting rooms, videos to promote area businesses, and tour/travel videos for tour companies. We will develop this division into a self-sufficient branch within the first year.

The Business to Business (B2B) Division markets the news stories of college and university communications students, and provides a resume posting service for said students. Those stories are sold to small market tv stations nationwide. This division is the heart of EvergreenTV Productions, and the reason for incorporation. After seven months of development, our website is complete. We are ready to revolutionize television news programming. Selecting only the best, we gather an impressive selection of “timeless” news stories produced by college and university students. Market research shows that nearly every day, small market tv stations need “filler” news, either local, regional or national, to complete their newscasts. Many subscribe to costly services, with little choice for story selection. EvergreenTV Productions will provide them with quality news stories, “filler news” which these stations can use for any time, any day, any cast. This division of EvergreenTV Productions is meeting two needs. First, those of students anxious to get professional experience and an introduction into the tv news industry. By promoting their news stories and publishing their resumes on our website, we’re helping them get that first foot in the door. Secondly, the needs of small market tv stations which cannot afford to budget tens of thousands of dollars for news programming.

Short Term:

  • Open two stores in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area by the beginning of year two. Each store will follow a business system designed to operate at maximum efficiency while maintaining the highest standards of quality, as per a franchise.
  • Produce an hour-long video of points of interest with the Tampa/St. Petersburg area to sell to doctor’s offices in the area by the end of month six. Revenue generated by tape sales will be used to support travel and expenses to meet goal three.
  • Generate an inventory of 15 stories for the business to business division by the end of month six, and 50 stories by the end of month nine.
  • Obtain 30 sales to small market tv stations by the end of year one.
  • B2B Division sales increasing to XX by the third year.
  • Build B2B news stories inventory to a minimum of 300 stories by the third year.
  • Open two home division stores per year in various markets throughout state. i.e., Naples, Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, Pensacola. Each store following our business system to maintain consistency and product control.
  • Maintain a profit, to reinvest into business and further expansion.

Keys to Success

Home Division:

  • Product quality. Begins with a complete customer’s understanding of the process. Customers should be comfortable turning over their treasured photos for production, and should be completely satisfied with the end product.
  • Implementation of business system. Every employee should be fully trained and able to assist other employees in the goals and objectives as defined within the business system. This ensures that the first key to success is achieved.
  • Marketing. Initial market saturation within key customer demographics is essential, followed by an extensive referral program, as outlined in the business system guidelines. Presentations to select demographics, such as retirement villas and professional photographers is vital. Building alliances and co-promotions programs with like businesses (such as wedding photographers, disc jockeys, travel agencies and photo processing centers) is key to further growth.

Tour and Travel Division:

  • Product quality/customer satisfaction. All productions must meet the complete satisfaction of the client, regardless of genre. Employees must be trained to anticipate client’s needs and company’s ability to meet these needs. No project is too small to ignore the importance of quality and customer satisfaction.
  • Development of referral program. This division will not actively seek projects, but will respond to the needs of referral clients. A well-defined web of referrals will contribute to the consistency of client’s expectations and this division’s output.

Business to Business Division:

  • Product quality. Extensive review of each story submitted. Guidelines sent to communications professors to encourage the development of these stories.
  • Marketing. Consistent, repetitious and personal contacting of colleges, universities, technical schools, as well as tv stations in the bottom 115 Nielsen markets. Fresh news releases notifying students and stations of upcoming stories. Faxes, newsletter mail-ins, and a constantly updated website promoting the students and product.
  • Management. On-time product delivery. Budgets under control. Legal and accounting advice concerning new development or budgeting, such as QuickBooks instruction and copyright/trademark requirements.

“In the factory Revlon manufactures cosmetics, but in the store Revlon sells hope.” Charles Revson, founder of Revlon.

While EvergreenTV Productions, Inc. operates as a production company, it sells personal memories, opportunities and trust.

The home division creates video scrapbooks set to music, but sells memories and quality service. Customers must trust that we cherish their photos and will produce every video as if for our own families. Our employees must feel equal to the standards expected of them, and feel free to contribute new ideas to improve upon our business model. Employees are also our internal customers, and should be treated with the same respect given to customers who walk through the door.

The tour and travel division maintains an open mind to new video projects, so the client understands that his goal is our objective. While we will suggest alternatives and bring our experience to the table, we hold the client’s goal as the primary target. If we cannot achieve our client’s goal, we will present that information in our initial encounter and suggest other possible production means, rather than altering the project to our comfort level.

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Video television production business plan, executive summary chart image

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

EvergreenTV Productions is a multi-faceted production company operating on three basic levels.

The Home Division of EvergreenTV Productions is centered around one product. Using the most advanced, all-digital editing equipment, our company turns standard photos into video “scrapbooks” of various length and style, all set to selected music backgrounds. Customers are given a free consultation to review the process, help in selecting needed music, and given an explanation of each of the four packages of videos from which they may choose. Each package is a detailed rate plan, with varying costs. By using this free consultation, customers are assured a unique and personalized video.

The Tour and Travel Division handles various projects which may present themselves to our production company. This division is not primarily a revenue generator, but is vital to the growth of the company. Projects will be hand picked based upon a referral system. By minimizing the number of projects, we control quality and reputation as a production company which specializes, rather than an all-encompassing production facility which forsakes quality for quantity of projects. This division is responsible every quarter for producing a new hour long video of areas of interest around Tampa Bay.

The Business to Business Division (B2B) is the heart and soul of EvergreenTV Productions, the center of the vision for which the company began. It is a marketing service for college and university students of broadcasting, and a news programming service for small market tv stations. News directors are encouraged to contact the students for job openings, and students are given an account history of which stations purchased their story. These stories are marketed to the bottom 115 (Nielsen market) tv stations nationwide.

EvergreenTV Productions, Inc. started in Tampa, Florida in October 2000. It is a privately owned, Florida corporation, Subchapter S.

Company Ownership

EvergreenTV Productions is a privately-held Subchapter S corporation owned in majority by its founder and president, Louanne Walters. There is one other director, Bobby G. Walters, Louanne’s father, who is also vice-president. Louanne owns 70%, with Bobby owning 30%. Shares are available for additional ownership.

Company Locations and Facilities

All equipment and office management space is held within one room, approximately 10×10 feet at Louanne Walters’ home.

We are currently looking for an initial storefront, and have priced several in the North Tampa and Carrollwood areas. Needed space is 500-750 sq. ft. In these areas, price per square foot runs $1-$1.50, or approximately $500-$1,125 per month for rent. Many of these locations include utilities.

Start-up Summary

Expenses and funding for the business start-up are shown below.

Video television production business plan, company summary chart image

Products and Services

As stated in the Company Summary section, Evergreen TV Productions is a company of three divisions, selling both products and services according to each division.

Product and Service Description

Services include:

  • Marketing college and university students’ news stories to small market tv stations nationwide.
  • Posting students’ resumes for a certain period (three months) on its website.
  • Assigning each student an account from which he/she can contact stations which purchased his/her tape for potential job opportunities.
  • Assigning each station an account from which the news director may contact students as potential future reporters.

Products include:

  • Video scrapbooks, produced from photos digitized and set to music.
  • Tour and travel videos of local, business or other interest for use in area businesses, as advertising of area businesses, or to promote tour agencies.
  • All types of “evergreen” or “timeless” news stories, such as Health, Travel, Business, Leisure, Sports, Politics, Feature Personalities, etc., which may be of interest to stations and their viewers.

Competitive Comparison

We stand apart from our competition in price and value.

Home Division: Currently, production companies are hesitant to offer video scrapbooks due to the amount of work necessary for a minimal return on revenue. They would much rather produce corporate productions with a high fee. Locally, a few companies will produce these scrapbooks, but they charge enormous fees. The reason for this is that they do not have a business system in place to allow them to produce these scrapbooks on a timely schedule with minimal cost. From an informal phone survey we gathered rates for a 10 minute video from $500 to $2,000. Additionally, this phone survey showed no true committment to the production elements of music and digital effects. Again, this is due to having no business system in place to provide these essential elements. It can be compared to a hamburger stand trying to become McDonald’s with no actual system in place to keep quality consistent.

Tour and Travel Division: We offer high value and quality to our customers, and treat every project as if it were the only project. Production companies in general have a reputation for sloppy and careless producing, for overbooking projects, and for inconsistent and exorbitant charges. Our referral acceptance program ensure we will not overbook, we will have a higher degree of responsibility with each customer who is referred, and we cannot charge one customer amount X, and another customer amount Y, as they will probably know each other. The referral program sets us apart, and reassures otherwise wary customers.

B2B Division: CONUS sells yearly subscriptions of regional news to tv stations nationwide for $20,000/year. Dr. Dean Edell sells yearly subscriptions of health news only, for nearly $30,000/year. MedStar sells yearly subscriptions of health news only, for $24,000/year. Mr. Food, Mrs. Fixit, TravelNet and many others all rank in the $20,000 and above category, and all offer only one topic, either health, food, travel, or how-to’s, but not something from each.

At our online website, EvergreenTV Productions offers a variety of topics to chose from, and stations can pick their own five stories each week to match their news or specific story trends, at a lower cost. They can customize their filler news, instead of throwing in whatever is available, making their newscasts flow smoothly, and eventually helping them generate viewers and thus sales, and all at a much more affordable cost.

Sales Literature

EvergreenTV Productions will rely heavily on presentations to retirement villas, business clubs, and other social outlets for advertising the Home Division. The B2B Division will rely upon one on one sales calls to colleges/universities and tv stations, and upon the Internet for e-mails, faxes and advertising of products and services.

Fulfillment

All end product supplies can be purchased locally from Office Depot, Sam’s Club, or Staples, or from a production company on the Internet at minimal cost. End product supplies include tape labels, and VHS/Beta/DVC video tape.

For the B2B Division, we do not buy our stories, but trade our marketing and resume services to students for their stories. A legally drawn-up contract is held between EvergreenTV Productions and each student, once his/her story is accepted. By agreeing, the student gives us the story for any commercial use, and he/she agrees to use that story only in job-searching. We then sell the story for profit and expenses (such as video tapes for dubbing purposes).

We also own over $12,000 worth of video and editing equipment, and can do our own stories, at no further cost to the company.

We use both Windows and Macintosh technology in our company. Windows and Office products are used mainly for all databases, word processing, and accounting needs. Macintosh products are used primarily for video editing, and loading video onto our website. We also have all the necessary components for a digital video production center, including cameras, mini-disc recorders, microphones, and lights. All other items can be rented per project at a low cost. Eventually, we would like to include DVD-R drives on our computers, to allow us to copy to DVD, rather than simply VHS tape (Home Division).

In addition to standard computers, scanner-copier-printer centers, we also use electronic faxing via the Internet, cell phone, DSL Internet subscriber line and several video tape recorders of various formats, including Beta SP, SVHS, DVC, and 3/4″. We are currently in communication with a media streaming Internet company regarding posting these news stories on the Internet to be downloaded directly to the tv stations who purchase the stories. This would eliminate the need for hard tape, and would give the stations instant access to stories they could download to their specific tape format.

Future Products and Services

Within the next five years, we will add storefronts statewide, all following consistent guidelines in our business system.

We would like to franchise this store nationwide.

Within the next three to five years, we will add production of our own brand of travel news to our product line.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

Home Division: There are no production companies in the area which currently focus on video scrapbooks. Several smaller companies “can” and “will” produce this for a high cost to the customer. With the advertising by both Apple and Sony focused on home digital video production, the awareness of this type of production is growing within the community, but as yet, no company has stepped up to the plate to offer this product. Consumers are becoming more educated about what can be done, but they do not know how to do it themselves.

For several months, EvergreenTV Productions has promoted this concept via word of mouth to small businesses, consumers on the street, and educated professionals. All show a keen interest in buying the product.

Tour and Travel Division : Many production facilities exist in the Tampa Bay Area; and all are capable of producing professional projects. As this is a referral division only, we do not plan to compete regularly for business. Instead, we will build a web of quality prospects by maintaining high productions standards, and accepting only those clients who come highly recommended. This is not our main focus, but is a tool to generate business and reputation.

B2B Division: EvergreenTV Productions focuses on the bottom 115 (Nielsen) tv markets. These are the markets whose station budgets don’t easily allow an expense of $20,000+ per year for programming services. We will offer the affordable alternative.

EvergreenTV Productions conducted a mail-in survey of 113 stations in the bottom 65 markets. The majority of these do subscribe to CONUS, Dr. Dean Edell, MedStar, or Medical Breakthrough. Of the 10 responses received, four stations did not subscribe to any news provider, but did indicate an interest in “filler news” at a reasonable cost. The conclusion is that many stations need stories, but cannot stretch their budgets to accommodate the high cost of programming. At this time, no service exists like EvergreenTV Productions programming alternative. Numbers for projected growth are not possible without history.

Market Segmentation

Three loosely defined market segments are identified. The “Home Division” category  is by far the largest potential segment and represents the consumer most likely to be our client. 

Video television production business plan, market analysis summary chart image

Target Market Segment Strategy

Home Division: Strategy for the home division is two-fold. First, we must find the appropriate means to communicate our product to potential customers. Because nearly everyone today has the ability to take photos and has a wide selection of photos at home, we must first narrow down our customer base by appealing to the emotions people attach to their photos. Older persons with larger families are more inclined to want to share their family histories. Newlyweds want their family and friends to share in their newfound happiness. By emphasizing these traits (nostalgia and euphoria) we can begin to gain a following for our product. Second, we must find a suitable location for our storefront, which enables us to find customers who share these traits. Malls and movie theaters appeal to “togetherness,” shopping together for gifts, weekend outings, brunch/lunch/dinner dates. The right location will give us access to our primary customers, those who will help us launch the product in the area by word of mouth.

Tour and Travel Division: This division’s strategy relies entirely on our referral program. Doctors’ offices and travel agencies give us a wider demographic schematic, as patients and families of patients are confined to a waiting room during a visit. Instead of watching afternoon televised programming, doctors will be able to provide their clients with informative, educational and entertaining programming as compared to many daytime talk shows.

B2B Division: Because EvergreenTV Productions utilizes the stories of university students, it is important to recognize the average age of a station’s reporters. A previous survey conducted by our company did confirm our experience, in that most small market tv stations hire only young “cub” reporters, as experienced reporters tend to move onward to larger markets and bigger stations. The quality of our product will match the quality of the station’s news. Therefore it is essential to target the bottom markets. This is also important to recognize from the service end of our business, as news directors will be interested in hiring reporters from our pool of news stories.

Market Growth

Home Division: We will be better able to track market growth in this division following the first two quarters of sales. At this time, with no active competition, we expect our growth rate to double and triple weekly. As Tampa Bay is a large retirement community, these numbers could be increasing for several quarters. We then expect to see a slight down curve as the product finds its niche within the community, with a more consistent level of sales.

Market Needs

Home Division: With the advent of digital editing capabilities on home computer systems, more consumers are aware of the potential of creating video scrapbooks, but most are not familiar enough with the technology to accomplish a simple video. Apple and Sony are selling large numbers of these computers despite a recent turndown in the computer industry. Digital still cameras are a must have, with consumers expanding their vocabularies to include “Memory Stick,” “Pixels,” and “Jpegs.” Yet, in the Tampa Bay area, no production companies are actively marketing video scrapbooks. We can use the above product interest, and the continued success of photo processing centers, to create a gauge for interest in this product. However, as with any relatively new product, we will not know the market’s true needs until several quarters of sales.

B2B Division: A void currently exists in the area of news programming. Larger stations are able to budget tens of thousands of dollars per year to support their needs. Smaller stations often rely on extending the weather and sports segments, or sitting on credits at the end of cast to “eat up extra time.” This reduces the newscasts’ value, and thus reduces the price of selling advertising as commercials, which is where tv stations make money.

Other small markets may subscribe to one or two programming services, at the expense of hiring quality personnel. These services limit the news directors and producers, because they have to run whatever story comes down on the satellite link that day. It may have nothing to do with other stories in a cast, or interest to the local viewing audience.

EvergreenTV Productions allows the stations to pick their own stories and run them when needed. In addition, by ordering weekly, they can choose from a constantly upgraded catalogue and pick stories which relate to news they are already running or have run recently. In other words, on a slow news day, CONUS may offer a story from a station in another state about a family lawsuit which has no relevance to that station’s viewers. EvergreenTV Productions, however, may offer a story about “Buying a puppy for your five year old.” It is timeless, and applies to a greater percentage of the viewing audience than the distant family’s lawsuit.

Within the service branch of this division, there is a greater range of competition, but few meet student’s needs. Many news talent agencies and resume services exist. However, none of them offer posting of resumes, marketing of resume tapes, and especially an opportunity to earn professional experience while the student is still in college, at no cost to the student. By positioning themselves with EvergreenTV Productions, students can hone in on various stations who have purchased their stories. They can link directly to those stations for future jobs, rather than send out a multitude of resume tapes in a shotgun style to get a foot in the door. And, they will not have to pay our company 10% of their first salary!

Market Trends

Home Division: The advent of home computers capable of digital editing can certainly be considered a market trend, and one that is highly influential to our home division. As more consumers know of the technology, more interest is created in our product. While large corporations spend millions in advertising to promote these computers, we can take advantage of this advertising second-hand. The interest is created by the large corporations, and we use like advertising and terminology to increase interest in our particular product. A second major trend is with photo processing centers, such as those at Walgreens, offering pictures on CD-ROMS. These centers are already taking pictures to the next level, with the purpose of sharing these memories with family and friends. The logical next step is to put these pictures together in a creative and professional video scrapbook, then copy them to VHS tape or DVD.

B2B Division: One major trend in the television news industry is staffing cut-backs. Newsrooms are using fewer reporters and photographers and replacing them with bought programming. Instead of paying $18,000/year for a reporter and $16,000/year for a photographer, smaller markets are buying news programming services at $20,000/year and saving on salary and health care expenses, while increasing the number of stories running per day. On average, a reporter will turn out one or two stories per day, while CONUS offers the ability to run two or three stories per day.

Another trend focuses on freelancing opportunities for reporters. Many are now working on their own, producing stories bought by several different companies. As tv begins to reflect the magazine industry in freelancing opportunities, more and more reporters will make a living working for themselves. In a long-term analysis, EvergreenTV Productions will be able to utilize these freelancers to do specific stories which fit the mission of our company.

A third trend is greater reliance on the Internet for programming. With the advent of TIVO, viewers can choose what they want to watch when they want to watch it. An even further long-term analysis could lend EvergreenTV Productions the opportunity to provide news that viewers can access specifically without going through their local tv stations. In the short term, local news stations may soon be able to download news stories directly to their control centers, without needing a tape for playback. By initially locating on the Internet, EvergreenTV Productions is putting itself in the position to take advantage of the increasing opportunities of Internet business, while at the present time offering easy access to a catalog of stories for order.

Service Business Analysis

Home Division: We are primarily a production company within the retail industry. Some industries are similar, but as this is new technology, it is a unique industry. At the current time, we know of only a few other production companies which consistently turn out video scrapbooks. The photography industry is similar in creating still pictures for retail.

  • Production companies: Most are individually owned and rarely produce small projects such as video scrapbooks. We do not know of any production companies designed solely for this type of product, but do know of several small corporations who have similar guidelines. The downside to these companies is that they are limited in timely production ability. They cannot accept 10 orders for video scrapbooks simultaneously, as they are set up to produce one scrapbook every two to three days, rather than two to three hours.
  • Photography companies: Like-minded companies which produce wedding, family, vacation, etc., still photos for families to treasure. They do not produce video scrapbooks from these photos.

Tour and Travel Division: We are limiting our production output in this division to a referral basis only. In general, the production company industry is very large, with companies specializing in corporate training videos, tour videos, advertising, etc. They rarely limit their productions to referral only, which means most often they will specialize in one area. To the customer, this means outsourcing to several production companies to meet his needs. A corporate president may have to hire two production companies to produce a training video and a travel video.

B2B Division: We are both a marketing service and news provider. Therefore, half of our business deals within the marketing industry, promoting students, while the other half deals within the news industry, selling news programming to news stations.

  • Industry magazines: For a nominal fee, students seeking employment can post a want ad, specifying the type of job they are looking for. These magazines have good responses from tv stations advertising jobs, but have a lower success rate for students seeking jobs.
  • Internet websites: For a nominal fee, students may post their resume and information on an industry targeted website such as www.tvjobs.com. Thousands of students and currently employed reporters compete for the same positions, again with lower success rates.
  • Network-based programming: Affiliates belong to network news services which provide daily programming on hourly feeds. These stories are limited in region and topic, extremely time-sensitive, and restricted to the affiliation only. NBC affiliates belong to NBC Newschannel. ABC affiliates belong to NewsOne, etc.
  • Subscription programming: For an annual rate, any affiliate may subscribe to these programming services. Their downside is in limiting the stories they offer to one specific topic such as healthcare, travel, or politics, rather than offering a wide variety of topics from which to choose. In addition, stations do not have a choice in which stories to run each day. Either stations can take one story daily from a satellite feed, or stations are sent a week of stories on tape.

Business Participants

Home Division: Most production companies have a full plate with a wide assortment of projects. They are benefiting from the growing need for corporate advertising/projects, and prices on production equipment are continuing to fall.

B2B Division:

Student Services:

  • There are hundreds of national talent agents within the tv industry. A select few work with esteemed firms and take on only proven, exceptional talent. Hundreds of others are available to college students for a fee of 10-13% of their salaries. This is where agents make money, searching for a job for the students, gaining an interview, then reaping the rewards. Fewer reporters are looking for agents due to the fee and the increasing abilities of the Internet. Like travel agents, talent agents are finding their once lucrative positions threatened by the Internet.
  • There are dozens of job search services available, more in the past few years due to the insurgence of the Internet. Most require an upfront fee of $10-15 per month for resume posting service, and the privilege of searching for jobs on their website from those stations which have subscribed to them. They will continue to do well as long as reporters are seeking positions.

Station Services:

  • While there are many production companies, few offer news to tv stations. Most programming services are based in larger markets where their product has taken hold. They offer topic specific news for tv stations nationally, at a high cost. Most generate stories by one well-known personality and offer only one story possibility per day. They make the majority of their revenue from mid-to-large markets. They have a strong position in the industry, and because they are topic specific, do not threaten each other. Internet news on demand, where viewers can watch their favorite station from their home computers, is the biggest threat.
  • Freelance reporters infrequently sell their stories to stations.

Distributing a Service

Home Division: Customers are accustomed to going into retail locations to make purchases or place orders. Having a storefront will provide them with this opportunity. Initially, we will host presentations to explain the product at various outlets such as retirement villas and apartment clubhouses.

B2B Division: TV Stations buy directly from the programming source. A sales representative may call or visit a station for a programming product, or the station may purchase directly via the Internet.

Initially, it will be vital for us to visit one-on-one with small market stations to obtain a base clientele. Those stations across the country will be targeted via telephone and direct mailing promotional kits. Those stations which responded to our initial marketing survey are prime first clients–those who have already defined their needs according to our questionnaire.

Competition and Buying Patterns

Home Division: As with any retail line, customers feel more comfortable and believe they are truly getting their money’s worth when they are given one-on-one attention. It is this attention we will give them in our 30-minute free consultations. Our customers will be more inclined to refer our business and product to friends and family if they believe we do not see them as simply a sale, but as people with needs being met. At the same time, it is essential we see the photos the customer is bringing in, and have the customer present to ask questions and verify the photo placement within the video. This initial attention to detail will also provide our customers with the knowledge that we will produce exactly the video they have in mind.

B2B Division: TV stations are prone to purchase news stories based on the bottom line. If one programming service becomes too expensive, the station will spin off to another programming service for a few thousand dollars less. Small market tv stations do not have this option, as most services are too expensive for their budgets.

EvergreenTV Productions will offer quality news stories at a very competitive price–in fact, half the cost of most other programming services–to gain access to those smaller markets. In addition, having a variety of news topics makes us a hot choice. Stations do not have to spend thousands for only one brand of news, i.e., health stories. They can choose from a wide variety, health, politics, financial, innovative, unusual, personalities, etc.

Main Competitors

Home Division (Video Scrapbook Production Companies):

Family Tree Videos: Strengths: A franchise production company geared toward genealogy, but includes producing video scrapbooks. Good-looking productions revolving around family interviews, documentation, and photos. Weaknesses: The formula is too complex to generate quality products in quantity. Many smaller production companies learn this method first, then give up due to lost time and not enough revenue. Independent Companies: Strengths: Nationwide, dozens of independently owned production companies produce video scrapbooks. Most are your neighbors, businesses you want to trust. Weaknesses: Quality is inconsistent and depends entirely upon the owner’s ability. If you’re not a close friend or family member, you may not get the product you really want or thought you ordered. Due to time constraints and the need for revenue, many of these smaller companies will put video scrapbooks on the back burner for bigger projects, such as weddings.

B2B Division (Programming Services):

Dr. Dean Edell: Strengths: Well known after years of radio and tv broadcasting. Big service, using satellite feeds to get stories to stations. National image, high volume. Weaknesses: Very expensive. At the top of the scale at $24,000+ per year. Limited to one topic, health news. MedStar: Strengths: Competitive pricing, less expensive than Dr. Dean. Utilizes chain of universities for national syndication. Weaknesses: Still too high a cost for smaller markets. Limited to one topic, health news. TravelNet: Strengths: National syndication, high volume. Has satellite feeds to stations. Weaknesses: Generic writing for travel pieces. Limited to one topic, travel news. Too high a cost for smaller markets. Mrs. Fix It: Strengths: Appealing change of gender, national image, excellent writing and presentation. Weaknesses: Too high a cost for smaller markets, limited to one topic, do-it-yourself home/yard/car improvements.

Many other services fall within this category, too many to mention. Some are purely regional and do not appeal nationally. Most are of high cost to small market stations. None that we’ve found offers a variety of news topics.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

  • Create a “gotta have it” campaign. Our marketing efforts need to focus on a) introducing our specific brand of video scrapbooks and b) telling our customers why they and their friends all need one.
  • Emphasize service and quality. Especially as this is a fairly new product to be launched into the market, customers need to know that we will cherish their memories and create a quality video.
  • Emphasize variety and cost savings. We must differentiate ourselves from the large programming services by detailing the variety of news stories and affordable pricing.
  • Build a relationship with schools and stations. Build long-term relationships with professors, deans and news directors to continue service and sales annually.
  • Focus on key schools and markets. We need to focus on building a client base of schools who know and believe in our student oriented objectives, and who will help promote those objectives yearly. We also need to build loyalty and consistent quality with target small market tv stations/news directors.

Competitive Edge

Home Division: Our competitive edge in producing video scrapbooks is in our business system, which allows us a) to produce large numbers of videos while retaining quality, thus giving more customers a grade A product with a short turn-around time, b) to maintain consistency at every location, so customers can be assured they will get the same quality at one store that their friends/family received at another, and c) to train all employees using consistent customer service guidelines from initial consultation through any complaints/issues.

B2B Division: For TV stations, our competitive edge is having a variety of news topics to offer, and at a much more affordable cost to small market tv stations than larger programming services can offer.

For students, our competitive edge is offering a FREE resume service, FREE marketing service for that first job out of school, and a DIRECT connection to news directors in markets known to hire graduating broadcasting students.

Sales Strategy

  • We need to sell the memories and emotions of these videos, not the product. While we produce videos, we create and tap into a lifetime of emotions cherished by our customers. Our advertising and marketing need to reflect this concept.
  • We need to understand exactly what our service is, so our customers will also understand. Our customers must feel confident that we value their memories and emotions as much as our own, and will treasure them individually. An order for a video is not a product order, but a piece of family gold we are holding in safekeeping.
  • We need to sell both the company and the product. As this is a new venture into an antiquated system, generating sales will require an enthusiastic approach in order to renovate the tv news programming concept. In-person sales are essential in the primary stages of generating sales. A reputation for service excellence, news variety and affordable pricing will continue the momentum of sales in the future.
  • We have to sell our service and support to schools nationwide. Gaining the support of deans and professors is a vital element to generating inventory on a yearly basis. By developing a loyal clientele of professors, we ensure continued inventory growth annually.

Sales Forecast

Yearly sales forecasts are shown below and the initial year’s monthly forecast is shown in the appendix.

Video television production business plan, strategy and implementation summary chart image

Strategic Alliances

Home Division: Strategic alliances with photographers, photo processing centers and travel agents will be key to generating sales in the first few quarters. We plan to initiate a co-marketing campaign, by possibly adding on 30-second commercials at the end of each video, promoting a photographer or travel agency. These will be tasteful and placed at the end of the tape, but will also co-promote a like business. In the future, we could sell these spots to like businesses to generate revenue.

Additionally, our alliances with retirement villas will be instrumental from start-up. While these will not involve co-promotions, it will be necessary to build a strong relationship so the villa officials welcome us to their facilities.

B2B Division: We heavily depend upon building a strong alliance with schools to create a substantial inventory to generate sales. The greater the size of inventory, the greater the variety we have to offer stations. We need to concentrate on making as many contacts with schools as possible. If we cannot offer students a marketing position, i.e., a substantial time frame in which we market their stories and post their resumes, we will not have their interest and it would follow, their stories to add to our inventory.

After the first year, the inventory will grow at a consistent rate. However, the first year’s inventory size could well determine our company’s sales success.

Marketing Strategy

Home/Travel Divisions:

  • Build relationships with primary target customers (Market Segmentation section) and like businesses, such as photography shops, photography processing centers, and travel agencies.
  • Emphasize service and quality while building a referral basis.
  • Emphasize variety and affordability.
  • Emphasize service while building relationships.
  • Focus on schools with tv stations and broadcast communications programs.
  • Focus on small market tv stations, bottom 115 Nielsen markets.

Positioning Statement

Home Division: Initially, for people celebrating an event or recognizing a lifetime of memories who would like to share photos of those memories in a video scrapbook with friends and family, our videos provide a special and unique gift opportunity. Unlike standard production companies which produce video scrapbooks in a random and time-consuming fashion, our videos meet consistently professional standards in quality in a timely manner. (See Competitive Comparison section.)

B2B Division: For students about to graduate and seek their first job within the tv news industry, EvergreenTV Productions offers an incredible marketing and resume posting service. Unlike www.tvjobs.com and others, it offers these services for free, and for a longer period of time (i.e., three months as opposed to one month).

For small market tv stations which need news stories daily to fill their newscasts, EvergreenTV Productions offers an affordable programming service. Unlike larger programming services such as Dr. Dean Edell and TravelNet, it offers a variety of programming at half the cost.

Pricing Strategy

Home Division: Our business system has helped define our pricing strategy. If our video scrapbooks are too time-consuming, the customer will be charged an exorbitant amount. If our video scrapbooks are even middle to low quality, we cannot charge the customer low enough. By making the productions both time-efficient and consistent in high quality, we can maximize our pricing to acceptable market levels. Our strategy is also based upon the fact that we are introducing video scrapbooks on a large scale into the market, with no previous history for this product. As our video style becomes more popular, we will be able to adjust the pricing accordingly. We are offering four package styles from which our customers may choose. By charting the most popular package, we will better determine the right price for our product.

B2B Division: Our pricing strategy is key to our offering. If we charge too much, or even 3/4 the price of larger programming services, we are undercutting our potential orders. The market of small market stations cannot bear the higher prices offered by larger programming services.

Likewise, by offering a free resume and marketing service to students, we are ensuring continued interest in our service in exchange for news stories. We need to be positioned to offer payment for these stories a few years down the road. As the popularity of EvergreenTV Productions grows, so will the number of programming services offering similar services.

Promotion Strategy

Home Division: Initially, we will depend upon presentations and business relationships to reach new customers.

  • Retirement villas “social nights:” We have been invited to attend certain nights set aside at retirement villas for residents and family members in which we will present Photo Memories thru discussion and a brief video presentation.
  • Photographers, photo processing centers, and travel agencies: We will form business referral relationships with like businesses to promote the product.

B2B Division: We depend on direct contact with communications deans and professors as our main way to reach students. That contact will be made to specific schools.

  • Promotional Kits. We are sending colleges, universities and technical schools with tv stations on campus promotional kits which will include our objectives and student guidelines for various topics.
  • Campus Visits and Phone Calls. We are contacting the professors and deans directly, either through campus visits or phone calls, to gain the support needed from deans and professors, who in turn are encouraging their students to submit news stories to us.

Distribution Strategy

Home Division: Our primary distribution will be through our storefront, which will also be the order center, consultation location, and production office. To make it easier for our customers at retirement villas, we offer to accept orders at and deliver to these locations.

B2B Division: Our distribution will focus mainly around our website, taking orders and processing them through direct mailings. In the initial period, we will be distributing tapes during person-to-person presentations.

We are prepared to mail on order, via the USPS. Stations may order for regular three-day delivery, up to overnight shipments, depending upon their needs.

Part of the business’s success will be based on planned tasks and timely completion of those steps. The table below lists steps, timeline and estimated budgets.

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

EvergreenTV Productions is owned and operated by its founders, Louanne Walters and Bobby Gene Walters. It is a small company with immediate plans for hiring one or two employees per store. Each employee’s responsibilities will be outlined in our business system “Operations Manual.”

As we grow into the Tour and Travel and B2B Divisions, we will evaluate which positions need to be filled first. Long term growth includes plans for an Operations Manager, who will report to the President and handle all accounting and marketing responsibilities. Three managers will answer to the Ops Mgr, one per division. Each manager will be primarily responsible for accounting and marketing within his/her division, and will handle all hiring/training needs.

We currently receive a great deal of advice from outside sources, such as our accountant and attorney; however, we follow the advice which meets our goals and needs.

Organizational Structure

As a start-up, our divisions and departments are inter-related and handled for the most part by Louanne Walters. With time and revenue, we will expand to accommodate several departments: sales & marketing, service and administration, product development, and finance. Each division manager will fill these departments according to specific needs and the company’s business system operations manual.

The following chart outlines the anticipated organizational set-up for the first three to five years of EvergreenTV Productions, Inc.

Management Team

Louanne Walters, president: 33 years old, extensive experience in the radio and tv news industries. Formerly a tv news producer, reporter and anchor. Degree in broadcast communications, seven years with three NBC affiliates (KPOM, Ft. Smith, Arkansas – KRIS, Corpus Christ, Texas – KWQC, Davenport, Iowa) and one year as video programmer with Royal Caribbean International. Extensive public relations background as anchor and cruise director with Royal Caribbean International. Strong writing skills, strong story development and news sense. Attending courses at Small Business Development Center USF. Louanne also has strong sales skills, and is formerly a Toyota new car product specialist, and Voice Stream territory representative.

Bobby G. Walters, vice-president: 61 years old, extensive management background during 33 years with USAF. Degree in business and management. Twelve years as manager with local Wal-Mart stores.

Management Team Gaps

We believe we have strong leadership for developing the concept behind EvergreenTV Productions. At present, our weakest area is in accounting. We are currently taking an accounting course produced by “Great Courses on Tape,” focusing on finance and accounting. Additionally, we have hired Jim Wessman, CPA to advise and aid us in the development of EvergreenTV Productions. Jim is a qualified management counselor, and QuickBooks advisor.

We also need to hire division managers with a well-rounded management background, including human resources, accounting, benchmarking and goal-setting abilities.

Following the opening of stores for the Home Division, we will need to hire an operations manager, with an MBA and at least five years experience with a start-up organization.

Personnel Plan

Details of store staffing is presented in the Personnel Table, below and in the appendix.

We assume hiring employees on hourly pay the first year, and adding a few salaried management positions with benefits the second year. Our management salaries (marketing manager, president, operations manager) as shown below include taxable benefits. Payroll taxes for all employees are shown in the Profit and Loss.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The most important element in the financial plan is the critical need for additional capital to assist in business operations through the remaining start-up process, and to maintain a positive cash balance for the first fiscal quarters. We do not anticipate any changes to our financial plan through accounts receivables or inventory, as our company operates upon the “payment upon receipt” principal for all goods, and our inventory cycle does not meet the standard criteria.

Moving from a home office to a storefront with employees, introduces greater liabilities. During the past seven month start-up process, we have largely committed to EvergreenTV Productions through personal savings, cashed stocks, personal credit lines and personal long-term loan options.

Important Assumptions

The financial plan depends on important assumptions, most of which are shown in the following table. The key underlying assumptions are:

We assume access to equity capital and financing sufficient to follow and maintain our financial plan as shown in the tables. We anticipate our financing to hold higher long-term interest than our current loan against stock. We assume that as our company grows, we will be able to utilize a larger credit line, decreasing our expenses in cash. Likewise, our short-term credit line will be available with a lower short-term interest rate, making more cash available.

We assume opening and promoting three stores within the Tampa Bay area before reaching saturation. Likewise, we assume relatively quick initial growth within the Home Division, following our plan of two stores open within the first year, and 10 stores statewide within five years.

We assume many tv markets are, or will become, Internet proficient. We assume most colleges and universities are, or will become, Internet proficient. We assume slow initial growth within the B2B Division. However, the majority of our long-term payments are for one time, or long-term purchases which will not need to be replaced in the first five years.

Key Financial Indicators

The benchmark chart shows the nature of our company. We estimate consistent turns on inventory, as our inventory is available for resale on a constant basis. In our Home Division, we do not keep inventory, but customers bring their photos to us. In our B2B Division, our inventory consists of news stories we will keep on hand for multiple sales. Several stations may purchase the same story, we simply make a copy of that story. Our blank tape inventory will be replenished monthly to avoid keeping a large inventory of tapes.

Our Gross Margin increases with increased sales, but as we have a very low direct cost of sales, this number will only increase fractionally compared to sales.

Sales and Operating Expenses are our closest measurements in this forecast. While sales increase dramatically, operating expenses increase with new stores, additional employees and taxes. However, by maximizing the number of employees within each store, we are also maximizing our location and limiting further expenses that additional storefronts would incur. We are also able to save drastically on advertising expenses, which would naturally increase with each new location.

Video television production business plan, financial plan chart image

Break-even Analysis

We assume running costs which include rent, utilities, office expenses, and an average of travel, advertising and miscellaneous costs. Miscellaneous costs are equal to quarterly costs such as business cards, brochures, bulk tape supplies and occasional equipment rental. Payroll increases every other month as we add new employees.

Video television production business plan, financial plan chart image

Projected Profit and Loss

Profit and Loss projects look very good, with the usual start-up loss limited to the first two months. The monthly projections for the first year are included in the appendix.

Video television production business plan, financial plan chart image

Projected Cash Flow

Cash flow projections are good, as shown in the annual table below, and the monthly table in the appendix. There are only two months of negative cash flow the foreseen the first year, and the all important cash balance shows steady increases.

Video television production business plan, financial plan chart image

Projected Balance Sheet

The balance sheet below and in the appendix show steady increase in net worth over the life of the plan.

Business Ratios

Business ratios for the years of this plan are shown below. Industry profile ratios based on the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code 7812, Motion Picture and Video Production, are shown for comparison.

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Recording Studio Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Business Plan Outline

  • Recording Studio Business Plan Home
  • 1. Executive Summary
  • 2. Company Overview
  • 3. Industry Analysis
  • 4. Customer Analysis
  • 5. Competitive Analysis
  • 6. Marketing Plan
  • 7. Operations Plan
  • 8. Management Team
  • 9. Financial Plan

Start Your Recording Studio Plan Here

You’ve come to the right place to create your recording studio business plan.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their recording studio companies.

Below are links to each section of your recording studio business plan template:

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Recording Studio Business Plan FAQs

What is a recording studio business plan.

A recording studio business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your recording studio business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your recording studio business plan using our Recording Studio Business Plan Template here .

How Do You Get Funding for Your Recording Studio Business Plan?

Recording studio businesses are most likely to receive funding from banks. Typically you will find a local bank and present your business plan to them. Angel investors, personal savings, credit cards and other types of capital-raising such as crowdfunding  are other common funding sources.

Read more about how to get funding: Seeking Funding from Angel Investors vs Venture Capitalists .

What Are the Main Types of Recording Studio Companies?

There are many types of recording studio companies. Most of the time, recording studios will provide services for a specific genre of music or industry. For example, some recording studios will focus primarily on country music artists and others will focus on hip hop and R&B music. Other recording studios solely focus on commercial production or video production. There are some recording studios that provide general sound production services regardless of genre or industry. 

What Are the Main Sources of Revenue and Expenses for a Recording Studio Business?

The primary source of revenue for recording studios are fees paid for sound production services by the client. Usually, the fees are charged per hour and include the time of the sound engineer and time utilized for the sound equipment.

The key expenses for a recording studio business are the cost of leasing the recording studio, employee costs, marketing/advertising costs, sound equipment purchasing and maintenance, and any sound technology or software.

What are the Steps To Start a Recording Studio Business?

Starting a recording studio business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Recording Studio Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed recording studio business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your recording studio business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your recording studio business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Recording Studio Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your recording studio business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your recording studio business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Recording Studio Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your recording studio business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your recording studio business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful recording studio business:

  • How to Start a Recording Studio Business

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Recording Studio Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

how to start a recording studio

Recording Studio Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their recording studios.

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a recording studio business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a recording studio business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Recording Studio Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your recording studio as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Recording Studio

If you’re looking to start a recording studio or grow your existing recording studio company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your recording studio to improve your chances of success. Your recording studio business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Recording Studios

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a recording studio are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for recording studios.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a recording studio.

If you want to start a recording studio or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your recording studio business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of recording studio you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a recording studio that you would like to grow, or are you operating an established recording studio that you would like to sell?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

  • Give a brief overview of the recording studio industry.
  • Discuss the type of recording studio you are operating.
  • Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
  • Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
  • Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of recording studio you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of recording studios:

  • High-end studio: This type of recording studio provides a full suite of recording options and targets professional artists and people looking to spend premium prices on high quality acoustics, equipment, and personnel.
  • Project studio: This type of recording studio is often less expensive than a high-end studio, but may still have high-end equipment and personnel. Project studios are commonly used for non-commercial recording projects, specific musical sound projects, and recording voice overs.
  • Home studio: This type of recording studio is a small, privately owned, home-based recording operation that typically uses inexpensive equipment and personnel for people who want to record on a budget.

In addition to explaining the type of recording studio you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

  • When and why did you start the business?
  • What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of clients served, the number of projects completed, and reaching $X amount in revenue, etc.
  • Your legal business Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the recording studio industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the recording studio industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your recording studio business plan:

  • How big is the recording studio industry (in dollars)?
  • Is the market declining or increasing?
  • Who are the key competitors in the market?
  • Who are the key suppliers in the market?
  • What trends are affecting the industry?
  • What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
  • What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your recording studio? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your recording studio business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, schools, families, and corporations.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of recording studio you operate. Clearly, individuals would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other recording studios.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes other types of recording studios, retailers of recording equipment, and do-it-yourself recording tutorials. You need to mention such competition as well.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

  • What types of customers do they serve?
  • What type of recording studio are they?
  • What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
  • What are they good at?
  • What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

  • Will you make it easier for customers to acquire your services?
  • Will you offer products or services that your competition doesn’t?
  • Will you provide better customer service?
  • Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a recording studio business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of recording studio company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide mixing and mastering services, sound design services, composition services, or video recording services?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your recording studio company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your recording studio located in a busy retail district, a business district, a standalone office, or a home-based studio? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your recording studio marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

  • Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
  • Reach out to websites
  • Distribute flyers
  • Engage in email marketing
  • Advertise on social media platforms
  • Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your recording studio, including answering calls, planning and providing recording sessions, billing clients and collecting payments, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to book your Xth client, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your recording studio to a new city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your recording studio’s potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing recording studios. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a recording studio.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you charge by the hour or by the day? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your recording studio, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a recording studio:

  • Cost of recording equipment and supplies
  • Payroll or salaries paid to staff
  • Business insurance
  • Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your studio location lease or a list of award-winning completed projects recorded in your studio.  

Writing a business plan for your recording studio is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the recording studio industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful recording studio.  

Recording Studio Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my recording studio business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your recording studio business plan.

How Do You Start a Recording Studio Business?

Starting a recording studio business is easy with these 14 steps:

  • Choose the Name for Your Recording Studio Business
  • Create Your Recording Studio Business Plan
  • Choose the Legal Structure for Your Recording Studio Business
  • Secure Startup Funding for Recording Studio Business (If Needed)
  • Secure a Location for Your Business
  • Register Your Recording Studio Business with the IRS
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get a Business Credit Card
  • Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
  • Get Business Insurance for Your Recording Studio Business
  • Buy or Lease the Right Recording Studio Business Equipment
  • Develop Your Recording Studio Business Marketing Materials
  • Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Recording Studio Business
  • Open for Business

Learn more about   how to start your own recording studio business .

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Business Plan Template For Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs

How to write the business plan for a recording studio

entrepreneurs recording music at their studio

Writing a business plan for a recording studio can be an intimidating task, whether you are starting up or looking to grow your existing business.

But it doesn't have to be this way! With the right information, tools and guidance, anyone can create an effective plan that will help them reach their goals.

In this in-depth guide, we'll cover why it's important to write a business plan for a recording studio, what information is needed and what should be included in the document. We'll also provide some useful tools that can make writing your own business plan easier and faster.

Ready? Let's get started!

In this guide:

Why write a business plan for a recording studio?

What information is needed to create a business plan for a recording studio, what goes in the financial forecast of a recording studio, the written part of a recording studio business plan.

  • What tool should I use to write my recording studio's business plan?

Before we dive into the actual content of the business plan, let's take a minute to remind ourserlves why we are doing this exercise in the first place.

To set a clear roadmap

Writing a business plan for a recording studio is an essential part of running a successful music production business. It forces entrepreneurs to look into the future and set measurable objectives for their company over the next 3-5 years.

This can be especially useful for startups, as it helps them understand if the business idea can be viable, while existing studios can use it to reassess and revise their goals for the future.

A well-crafted business plan will not only ensure that your recording studio has a clear roadmap but also give you peace of mind knowing that all aspects of your venture have been carefully thought about.

To get clarity on your cash flow

A carefully crafted business plan also provides you with an accurate financial forecast which you can compare your progress against on a regular basis.

This is key to ensure your studio remains a viable and profitable business, with enough cash in the bank.

To secure financing

Writing a business plan for a recording studio is also essential if you are looking to secure financing from a bank.

A well-crafted business plan will provide the lender with an understanding of your goals and objectives, as well as how you intend to use their money to start or grow your business.

It should also include financial projections based on market research, which demonstrate the ability to repay the bank in time.

By taking the time to create this comprehensive document, you can show that you have done your due diligence in assessing risks and opportunities associated with starting or growing your recording studio.

Similarly, a business plan is also essential for attracting and securing financing from equity investors.

Investors will review your plan carefully in order to assess if their investment can generate an attractive return on investment.

To do so, they will be looking for evidence that your recording studio has potential for healthy growth, profitability and cash flow generation over time.

Crafting a comprehensive yet concise business plan is key to getting an investor’s attention and convincing them that investing in your project makes financial sense.

Now that you know why it’s important to create a business plan for a recording studio, let's look at the information needed to create one.

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Carrying out market research for a recording studio

It is important to carry out market research before writing a business plan for a recording studio in order to accurately forecast revenues.

By researching the local market, you can gain a better understanding of how much demand there is for your services and what kind of pricing structure will be competitive.

This information can then be used to create realistic expectations about potential income for the business, enabling you to make informed decisions when preparing your financial projections.

Additionally, conducting market research helps identify any potential threats that could impact the success of your venture, allowing you to develop strategies for mitigating those risks.

With this knowledge in hand, you’ll have a better chance of creating a successful business plan that has both short-term and long-term goals in mind.

Developing the marketing plan for a recording studio

Before developing a business plan for a recording studio, budgeting and forecasting sales and marketing expenses are also essential steps.

A comprehensive marketing plan should be created first in order to ensure that the right amount of resources are allocated to your marketing activities.

This plan should provide an accurate prediction of how much needs to be spent on promotions, advertising, public relations and other initiatives.

The staffing and equipment needs of a recording studio

When considering the creation of your recording studio's business plan, it is essential to factor in the financial investments needed for adequate recruitment and budget planning.

This requires careful analysis of the potential costs associated with hiring employees, such as salaries, health benefits, and other expenses that should be factored into the overall financial forecast.

Additionally, funds will need to be allocated for the studio setup and other capital expenditures.

Taking these factors into account will help you create a realistic financial forecast and set your recording studio up for long-term success.

Once you have gathered the necessary information required to create your business plan, you can start developing your financial forecast.

But what does this entail? Let's have a look.

A financial forecast for a recording studio usually includes a P&L (profit and loss) statement, a balance sheet, a cash flow statement, and a sources and uses table.

Let's have a look at each of these in a bit more detail.

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement of a recording studio shows how much income it will generate and how profitable it will be in the future.

example of projected profit and loss statement in a recording studio business plan

The projected balance sheet of your recording studio

The balance sheet of a recording studio is a financial statement that shows the total value of all the assets owned and liabilities owed by the company at any given point in time.

This document is essential for assessing the recording studio's overall financial health and stability: net worth, liquidity, and solvency.

example of projected balance sheet inside a recording studio business plan

Your projected balance sheet will provide lenders, investors (and you the business owner) with insight into the current financial structure of the recording studio.

It shows exactly how much money has been invested in assets such as equipment and buildings, as well as liabilities like loans or accounts payable.

This helps determine whether the recording studio's operations can afford more debt. Additionally, it shows what kind of assets are available to be used as collateral when the recording studio seeks to take out a new loan.

Overall, looking at the balance sheet of a recording studio is important for understanding its financial structure and ensuring that it can meet its short-term and long-term financial commitments.

The projected cash flow statement

The projected cash flow statement of your recording studio is the table that shows how much money the studio expects to generate and consume.

It shows how much money they will have available for things like buying equipment, paying rent, and hiring staff.

Having an accurate projection of your cash flow will be key plan ahead and making sure your recording studio doesn't run out of money.

example of projected cash flow statement in a recording studio business plan

The initial financing plan

An initial financing plan, also known as a sources and uses table, is a helpful tool which shows how you will finance the creation (or expansion) of your recording studio.

recording studio business plan: sources and uses of funds

Knowing exactly where the money will go help investors or lenders assess how the risk is split between financiers and the founding team.

Now that we have a good idea of what a comprehensive financial forecast for your recording studio looks like, let's take a look at the other part of the business plan which provides the reader with the context needed to understand and judge the quality of your forecast.

The written part of a recording studio business plan usually consists of 7 comprehensive sections. Let's have a look at them

1. The executive summary

When writing an executive summary for a recording studio business plan, it is important to provide an overview of the business, the market, and key financials.

An effective executive summary should offer a concise snapshot of your business, including what services are offered, who the target customers are, any competitive advantages that you may have, and any key milestones that have been achieved.

When discussing the market overview, it is important to describe the overall size of your local market, any trends affecting potential growth and customer acquisition, and how your recording studio will be positioned in this competitive landscape.

Additionally, it is important for investors to get an idea of key financials such as revenue projections, cash-flow forecasts, and capital requirements.

Finally, your executive summary should include your ask: how much money you’re seeking and what lenders or investors will receive in return for their investment. This is a critical section of the business plan as it provides clarity on why someone would finance your recording studio.

2. The presentation of the company

When crafting the presentation of a company in a recording studio business plan, it is important to focus on three key elements:

  • Structure & ownership,
  • and management team.

Structure & ownership is the section where you explain the legal structure of your company – whether it’s a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company, etc. It’s also important to describe the ownership structure and list the equity stakes that have been issued so far.

Next is the presentation of the location of your studio, which should explain the rationale for choosing the physical location where your studio is located, as well as explaining how it suits your customer base.

For example, if you’re targeting local musicians, you may want to focus on the convenience of your studio’s location for potential customers.

Finally, the management team section is where you provide a brief description of the people behind your recording studio. This should include each individual’s qualifications as well as their experience in running a business and working within the music industry.

This section should also include any additional expertise or assets brought by members of your management team. Such as a good network of contacts in the local music scene, for example.

By providing clear information on the legal structure, ownership, location and management team behind your recording studio, you will give readers an understanding of who’s behind the project, where it’s located, and why they should believe in the team’s ability to make it successful.

3. The products and services section

When writing a business plan for a recording studio, it's important to include an accurate and comprehensive description of all the services you will offer.

This is especially true if you are hoping to secure financing from banks or investors who will want to understand how you are going to generate revenues.

When describing the products and services your recording studio offers, be sure to describe each item in detail including information on how they can help customers achieve their goals.

For example:

  • If you offer sound engineering and production services, explain exactly what these entail such as mixing, mastering, vocal tuning and so on.
  • If you provide additional audio equipment rental services or music lessons for aspiring artists then make sure that this is included too.

Be specific about what makes your offerings unique compared with other studios in the area so that potential financiers can see why yours may have more success than others.

Also try to keep it as jargon free as possible, as your reader might not be familiar with the terms commonly used in the music industry.

products and services offered by the recording studio stated in their business plan

4. The market analysis

When presenting the conclusion of your market analysis in your recording studio's business plan, you should touch upon the following items: market demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers at entry, and regulation.

These are all key components that will help paint a picture for potential banks or investors about the viability of the venture.

Demographics and segmentation provide insight into who is likely to use the services offered by the recording studio. This data can help inform decisions around pricing strategies as well as marketing campaigns targeted at specific customer segments.

Knowing one's target market also helps identify which channels are best suited for reaching them while also allowing more accurate predictions regarding sales volume.

It is also important to understand what other competitors offer in terms of similar services so that proper differentiation can be established between offerings.

Finally, understanding any regulations related to running such a business is critical since failure to comply with local laws could lead to hefty fines or worse yet - closure of your recording studio!

5. The strategy section

The strategy section of your recording studio business plan should include the following subsections:

  • An analysis of your competitive edge
  • Your pricing strategy,
  • A detailed marketing plan,
  • Your company's past and future milestones,
  • And, last but not least, an assessment of risks and mitigants.

Each part is essential for convincing potential investors that the recording studio has what it takes to be successful in this highly competitive industry.

The first step is to articulate how your recording studio will stand out from its competitors. This can involve highlighting unique features or services that set it apart from other studios in the area, as well as analysing any advantages they may have over larger rivals such as lower overhead costs due to economies of scale or access to specialized equipment.

It’s also important for you - the business owner - to highlight why these factors are likely to play a critical part when customers choose where they will record music or voiceovers.

The second step is to present your pricing strategy and demonstrate why it is a sensible one.

You should consider the costs of running your studio, any discounts or other incentives you may offer customers, and how price points compare against competitors in the area.

The next part is your marketing plan which should outline how you will reach potential customers and build loyalty among your studio customers.

Then comes the milestones section, where you can highlight the key accomplishments to date, as well as any goals you plan to achieve in the future.

Finally, it is important to include an assessment of risks and mitigants so that potential investors are aware of what could go wrong, and how these issues could be addressed. This will help demonstrate that you have done your due diligence and can help instil confidence that the venture will be successful.

6. The operations section

The operations section of a recording studio business plan must provide information about staffing (and recruiting), opening hours, assets and intellectual property requirements, and suppliers.

When writing the staffing team section, it is essential to provide details about each role and how they will contribute to making the studio run smoothly. Start by introducing each team member, their role, and any qualifications or experience they bring to the studio. Then explain how you plan to recruit new staff if needed.

The opening hours section should clearly outline when your recording studio is open for business and when it is not available. This will help financiers understand how the studio operates and whether it is meeting customer demand.

The assets and intellectual property section should detail any key resources you depend on to run the studio, such as a long lease, recording equipment, software, or specialized tools. It should also include information about any intellectual property relevant to your business, such as copyrights or trademarks.

Finally, the suppliers section should explain which companies you plan to work with and why they are the best fit for your needs. Be sure to include information about their quality of service, cost-effectiveness, and commercial terms.

Overall, a detailed operations section in your recording studio business plan can give investors and financiers confidence that your studio is capable of success.

7. The presentation of the financial plan

This is where you will present the financial forecast that we talked about earlier in this guide.

Now that you have a better understanding of what should be included in the content of your recording studio's business plan, it’s time to look at the tools that can help you create one.

What tool should I use to write the business plan of my recording studio?

In this section, we will be reviewing the three main solutions for creating a recording studio business plan:

  • Using Word and Excel,
  • Hiring a consultant to write the plan,
  • And using specialized online business plan software.

Create your recording studio business plan using Word or Excel

Creating a recording studio business plan using Word or Excel is a viable option for many business owners, although it does have a lot of cons.

The major advantages of using Excel and Word (or equivalent programs such as Google Docs) for creating a recording studio business plan is their low cost.

That said, there are quite a few cons to using Word and Excel for this purpose.

While creating a financial forecast on Excel might be cheap, it can also be time consuming and difficult for the average business owner to do accurately without expert accounting knowledge.

And, even if you manage to create an accurate and error free forecast on Excel, financiers might not believe you did.

Additionally, creating a recording studio business plan on Word requires starting from a blank page and spending hours on formatting.

Overall, while Word or Excel may be viable options for creating a recording studio business plan for some business owners, but it is by far not the best or most efficient solution.

Outsource your recording studio business plan to a consultant (or accountant)

Outsourcing the creation of your recording studio business plan to a consultant or accountant is an option that many business owners consider when they need help.

Here also, there are both pros and cons to this choice, so it’s important to weigh your options before making a decision.

On the plus side, they are used to writing business plans - both consultants and accountants are good at creating financial forecasts without errors - provided they get the right inputs from you, as accountants or generalist consultants may lack the industry expertise to forecast your sales accurately without guidance.

The main drawback is the cost, hiring a consultant or accountant is expensive, and there may be unexpected extra costs if the plan needs to be updated or modified later down the line.

Budget at least £1.5k ($2.0k) for a complete recording studio business plan, more if you need to make changes after the initial version (which happens frequently after the initial meetings with lenders).

Use an online business plan software for your recording studio business plan

Another alternative is to use online business plan software . There are several advantages to doing so:

  • You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
  • You can be inspired by already written business plan templates and examples
  • You can easily make your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you
  • You get a professional document, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
  • You can easily compare your actual financial performance to your forecast to ensure your business is on track

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try our software for free by signing up here .

We hope that this guide helped you to better understand how to write the business plan for your recording studio. Do not hesitate to contact us if you still have questions!

Also on The Business Plan Shop

  • 6 ways to enhance the profitability of a tea room
  • Business plan vs budget: what's the difference?
  • How to choose the best business plan software for you

Know someone in the music industry? Share this article with them!

Guillaume Le Brouster

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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4+ SAMPLE Video Production Business Plan in PDF

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LUMAGRAFX PHOTO STUDIO BUSINESS PLAN "We lead, they follow"

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2020, LUMAGRAFX PHOTO STUDIO BUSINESS PLAN "We lead, they follow"

LUMAGRAFX is derived from LUNDA, MATTHEWS and GRAPHICS as in GRAFX. Matthews has worked as a photographer and freelance portrait photographer in Mufulira and Kitwe for six years. He has found that personal customer relationships are the key to repeat business and will open Lumagrafx Photo Studio in Chililabombwe.

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