Free Filmmaker Workshop: New Film Funding & Production Opportunities in 2025

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Netflix, Apple, and Amazon are dramatically reducing the number of original media projects they develop and fund. Surprisingly, this shift creates exciting opportunities for independent film producers. In this workshop, Producer Ray Ellingsen, Film Analytics Expert Jeff Hardy, and Producer Funding Consultant Michael Praver will explain how the industry is evolving and provide actionable steps to help filmmakers bring their projects to the screen quickly and profitably.
What You’ll Learn:

• How the collapse of studio production is creating a larger market for high-value indie films.
• How indie producers are stepping up to create the media streamers need to retain their subscribers.
• What types of projects will secure paying distribution in 2025—and why indie projects with name talent in the right genres are in high demand.
• What minimum guarantees are and how they ensure full funding.
• New funding sources that reduce or eliminate the need for investors.
• Expanded film funding options, including SBA and economic development financing for filmmakers in Los Angeles and nationwide.

This workshop is ideal for:

• Seasoned writer-producers looking for innovative ways to move their projects forward.
• Studio-system insiders transitioning into the post-studio production industry.
• New filmmakers learning how to turn their passion for storytelling into a sustainable career.

Speakers and Bios

Ray Ellingsen – As a Producer with over 30 years of experience, Ray has produced more than 50 projects as a producer, executive producer, line producer, writer, director, and studio manager. In 2009, he founded Moving Pictures Media Group (MPMG), which develops and produces projects for clients and in-house production. Ray brings a wealth of expertise in developing, funding, producing, and acquiring distribution for feature films, documentaries, and commercial projects.
Jeffrey Hardy – As Film Analytics Expert & Founder of FilmProfit, LLC, Jeffrey has served as a film finance and distribution analyst for The Hollywood Reporter, Fortune Magazine, The Philadelphia Enquirer, The Washington Times, and The Black Film Report. He has appeared before the California Film Commission and the National Media Network by invitation. Jeffrey regularly consults with studios, producers, and investors to analyze screenplays, production budgets, marketing strategies, and distribution plans to maximize the probability of profitable releases.
Michael Praver – As the founder of [FundingFundingFunding.com](https://filmfundingla.com/), Michael specializes in helping media producers and entrepreneurs find the financing needed to advance their projects. He has helped more than 60 filmmakers fund their production companies since 2015. With deep knowledge of unsecured credit options, business and corporate credit alternatives, equipment financing solutions, SBA programs, and bank funding requirements, he empowers producers to launch and grow their ventures swiftly.
Nancy Fulton – Workshop Organizer Nancy, founder of Nancy Fulton Meetups, is a prolific producer and serial entrepreneur with over 60,000 followers on Meetup.com. With hundreds of video, book, film, and podcast credits, Nancy is dedicated to helping creatives bring their projects to market quickly and efficiently.