Screen Innovation Production Fund
A partnership between Creative New Zealand and the New Zealand Film Commission

A partnership between Creative New Zealand and the New Zealand Film Commission

Frequently asked questions

This section provides an informal guide to making an application for funding from the Screen Innovation Production Fund (SIPF). Although the SIPF is a partnership program between Creative New Zealand and the New Zealand Film Commission, it is administered through Creative New Zealand. Therefore, a standard Creative New Zealand application form must accompany each copy of a funding proposal. Application forms are available as a download from this website and from http://www.creativenz.govt.nz/ .

Common questions

Is there a best time to apply for funding?

The best time to apply is when the project is ready. Do make sure you get the application in by the deadline. Writing a quick application the night before a funding deadline might not be worthwhile - remember the panel is looking for a well-developed proposal.

What is the funding process my application goes through?

Each application is read by the SIPF Advisor before being sent to the five panel members. This process takes two to three weeks. The applications are then copied and sent to each of the panel members. The panel members have about a month to read all the applications. Each panel member makes a preliminary assessment before the meeting. A day is set aside for the panel to view support material and then the funding meeting is held. The panel discuss applications and conclude with a list of funding recommendations which are then sent to the Chief Executive and Chair of the Board of each partner organisation, Creative New Zealand and the New Zealand Film Commission, for approval. Upon approval, applicants are notified by mail as to whether their applications have been successful or not. The whole process usually takes three months.

What makes a good application? What kind of application is the panel looking for?

The panel wants to see well-presented creative ideas. Surprise them! The panel does not prescribe themes or styles for projects.

When assessing project applications, the panel consider each of the following areas:

  • the artistic merit of the project
  • the funding programme criteria
  • the artform/sector development priorities.

What are some of the reasons for applications being declined?

  • the project is not innovative and/or excellent
  • the script needs development
  • the proposal lacked details - ie. the viability of project questioned (budget rough and/or vague)
  • the proposal was mainstream/more suited to television/not innovative and therefore not within the SIPF criteria
  • the proposal lacked support material and/or support letters
  • the support material (i.e. footage) was not supportive

How much can I apply for?

There is a cap of $25,000. First-time applicants are encouraged to develop projects with a budget of $15,000 - $17,000.

The panel needs to be confident that the project is achievable with the amount budgeted for. Every filmmaker brings a unique pool of resources to a project - a recent film school graduate is likely to have less contacts and resources compared to a film technician who has worked in the industry for ten years. The key is that the budget is well-researched and the best prices have been obtained for that particular filmmaker.

There is a list of discounters available on this site with the SIPF guidelines. These organisations offer discounts on stock and post-production facilities to successful SIPF applicants. They can also be an excellent source of information so if there is some part of the filmmaking process that has you a bit confused, don't be afraid to ask them the so-called "dumb questions" - they are supportive of emerging filmmakers and appreciate the learning curve we are all on.

Can I pay my crew and cast?

Once again, some filmmakers may have access to crew/cast that are willing to work for free or minimal pay, others may have to budget for higher labour costs. There is also the question of the length of the shoot - it is one thing to shoot for 2-3 days and another to shoot for a month.

You need to establish your shooting and crew/cast requirements and then approach people with your project - keen newcomers may be willing to work for minimal wages in order to gain experience and a film credit while more experienced film workers may agree to participate for a $200/ shooting day - which in many cases, would be half their commercial rate. There may be some areas where more experience is required (camera, sound, art dept. etc) and where you might consider a higher remuneration to increase the likelihood of success.

Can I look for other sources of funding?

Other than the New Zealand Film Commission, you are encouraged to seek funding from other sources. If your budget exceeds the $25,000 cap, we need to know:

  • where the other funding is coming from or where you are seeking it
  • the amounts you've received or are seeking from another source
  • which parts of your project this other funding will pay for
  • which parts of the project you would pay for with SIPF funding if you receive a grant

How many copies of my application do I supply?

You need to submit 2 copies of the proposal, each one including the Creative New Zealand application form. The proposal must be A4 and unbound as it will be copied up to 5 times for the assessment panel. If you wish to include colour photos, these should be submitted as separate support material or 5 copies sent for each panel member.

How many copies of the support material are required?

Five copies of DVD or VHS support material are required.

For post-production applications, please contact the Fund's Adviser to discuss the support material requirements.