Funding Through IFFCON
Looking to finance a film? Then submit an application to the most exclusive film financing conference in the states and land yourself a spot at IFFCON 2001.

By Amy Souza

Brad Anderson's "Next Stop Wonderland" is one of the many 'alumni' of IFFCON.

The reality of filmmaking is this: you gotta have money. Since few of us are independently wealthy enough to fulfill our dreams, we have to look outside for the funds to complete our life’s work. Fundraising can certainly become a full-time gig, but luckily there are organizations out there committed to helping independent filmmakers succeed. One such organization is the International Film Financing Conference, or IFFCON, held annually in San Francisco.

IFFCON has been around since 1994 and bills itself as "the most important North American financing event for independent film." And while that sounds a bit boastful, it’s a pretty accurate representation. It’s a juried event, meaning producers must apply to attend. For its first two years, IFFCON was only open to selected producers. But starting in 1996, event planners added an Open Day. The cost is $150 if you register before January 5^th, and $170 after that. If you’re serious about film, can afford a flight to San Francisco, and can crash on a friend’s couch, 150 bucks is a small price to pay for everything you’ll encounter during this jam-packed day. You’ll mingle with indie filmmakers, producers, and financiers; learn how to create a short, compelling pitch; hear the pros talk about the realities of filmmaking; and best of all, surround yourself with creativity that’s sure to give your inspiration a boost.

If you’re a producer submitting a film, this exclusive conference is tough to get into. Producers are judged on how they can present themselves and their projects in writing. No supplementary materials - - like videos or press kits - - are allowed. The applications are short and include a one-sentence project description, so the ability to get across information succinctly is key.

IFFCON receives hundreds of applications every year, but only 60 US and Canadian filmmakers have won the honor to attend IFFCON 2001. The competition for an IFFCON slot is fierce, and this year’s producers include former Emmy-award winners and Academy Award nominees. They’ll have unprecedented access to industry bigwigs from HBO Films, USA Films, Miramax, Film Four, P.O.V., and more. Acceptance to IFFCON doesn’t guarantee a producer’s film will get financed or distributed, but with a conference fee of under $500, it’s still a pretty good return investment. Both narrative films and documentaries are represented, and each year one film is chosen to attend Cine Mart, a European version of IFFCON held in Rotterdam (the Netherlands) in late January.

This year’s conference will focus on filmmaking in the 21^st century and the changes facing the industry. Panel discussions will include how production and distribution will be redefined in light of new technologies. Says Wendy Braitman, IFFCON’s executive director, "We will try to make sense of the industry’s current metamorphosis through candid discussions about the potential of digital technology as well as the web and television as venues for distribution. As always, we will hunt for new possibilities in these emerging frontiers because IFFCON is about exploring new opportunities for filmmakers."

If you’re interested in submitting an application to next year’s conference, or to learn more about IFFCON 2001, check out their web page at www.iffcon.com. Remember, application deadlines are in October, so mark it on your calendar now.

Amy Souza is a writer and media producer living in Burlington, Vermont.

Sponsors: