What Is a Hard Money Loan for Film Producers?
In the fast-paced world of film and television production, timing is everything—and waiting on traditional financing can kill momentum. That’s where hard money loans come in. While often associated with real estate, hard money lending has become an essential tool in the entertainment industry, giving producers quick access to capital secured by collateral such as distribution deals, tax credits, and union deposits.
At FM Lending LLC, the lending division of FilmMoney, we specialize in hard money loans built specifically for the realities of entertainment production. Founded by veteran producer David Brown, our approach is fast, transparent, and grounded in real production needs—not banking red tape.
🎬 What Makes a Loan “Hard Money”?
Hard money loans are short-term, asset-based loans. Unlike traditional loans that rely on credit scores or tax returns, hard money lending is all about the value of your collateral.
In the film world, this can include:
Signed distribution agreements (Minimum Guarantees or pre-sales)
State tax credits or cash rebates
Union and guild deposit refunds
Delivery payments from streamers or international buyers
Because these loans are secured by real, documented assets, they allow for faster approvals and funding—typically within days, not weeks or months.
⚡ Why Film Producers Use Hard Money Loans
Speed: Production deadlines are non-negotiable. If your financing isn’t ready, you miss your window—or your talent.
Bridge the Gap: Waiting on rebates, deposits, or investor funds? A hard money loan keeps you moving while those funds clear.
Protect Relationships: Crew, cast, vendors, and sales agents expect on-time payments. We help make that happen.
🧩 How FM Lending LLC & FilmMoney Work With Producers
At FilmMoney, we’ve walked in your shoes. Founder David Brown is a PGA producer and former DGA UPM who built this company to solve the problems he faced in the field. We understand what it takes to package, prep, and deliver a film—and we’ve designed our loans accordingly.
We offer:
12-month flat-term loans
Up to 80% LTV (Loan-to-Value)
Clear repayment paths via delivery payments or tax credit assignments
🧠 Final Thoughts
Hard money loans aren’t just for emergencies—they’re a tool for smart, agile producers who want to stay ahead of the curve. If you’re working on a project and need liquidity to bridge a gap, FilmMoney and FM Lending LLC are here to help.
Reach out to David Brown and the team to learn how a fast, asset-backed loan could get your production across the finish line—without the stress.