About the Show
Indie Filmmaking — In This Economy?
Fund, Produce, and Monetize Your Film (Without Selling Your Soul)
Making independent films has never been easy—but in 2026’s economic and political climate, it feels more challenging than ever. Join New Hollywood for our 2nd annual panel discussion and networking event! We’ll explore resources and practical strategies to help filmmakers navigate funding, producing, and monetizing independent work while maintaining their vision and values.
From grants and fiscal sponsorship to DEI initiatives and tax incentives, we’ll explore the tools and support systems available to filmmakers who want to create meaningful work sustainably—for both their budgets and their crews. We’ll also hear from filmmakers and distributors about the practical realities of navigating today’s landscape.
Topics will include:
Grants and funding opportunities
Fiscal sponsorship and nonprofit support for filmmakers
DEI incentives, tax credits, and state resources
Sustainable production practices and better working conditions on set
Distribution and monetization
Whether you’re developing your first short film, producing a feature, or looking for new ways to fund and sustain your creative work, this conversation will provide actionable resources and insights from professionals across the independent film ecosystem.
Thursday, August 27
7:30pm-10pm
Panel + Q&A Networking Reception to Follow
Come connect with fellow filmmakers, producers, funders, and industry advocates working to create art and build better working conditions on set.
About New Hollywood:
New Hollywood exists to create safer, fairer, and more supportive work environments on set. Through our Better Working Initiative, we partner with filmmakers who commit to three core standards:
Limiting average workdays to 12 hours or less Ensuring minimum
11-hour turnaround times
Providing proper meal breaks, rather than budgeting for penalties
We offer a Fiscal Sponsorship Program to partner with aligned projects, supporting independent creators in their fundraising efforts while upholding better labor practices.
Production Team