FEAR FILMS: INCUBATION FUND FAQ

The Submission process

How does the submission process work?

Each individual application will be assessed by members of FEAR and the IHS. From these projects, a shortlist will be created and applicants invited to an online discussion with representatives from all parties. This will be to scope out how the project will look in its entirety, and from here, a decision will be made to fund if all parties are comfortable in moving forward.

Is there really no limit to what I can request for funding?

It's true - there really are no limits (bar the overall fund size). But we will be carefully assessing budget plans for each project, and if a large sum is being requested, it will need to be clearly explained why and what it will be spent on. Whilst we’re excited that there’s new money available, it will be spent incredibly carefully, and there will be no room for complacency.

I have no filmmaking experience but I do have an amazing idea and concept. Can I still apply?

If you have no filmmaking/production experience but still have an amazing idea, then you are still welcome to submit without most of the supporting production documents. A basic look book/investment pack will still be required. If your concept is strong enough then we may be able to help assemble a production team, but fully-scoped out applications will likely be given priority.

Do I need to have a full plan in place as to how my short horror concept can be converted into a game?

While you do not need an exact plan as to how your short film could convert to a game (or any completed screenplay/budget document/production schedule etc), the investment panel may look more favourably on projects with a clear scope for conversion. So the more information you can provide us, the better!

Can I get help with my application?

While we cannot provide specific advice on each individual application, members of the Independent Horror Society's IHS Pro service will get access to a private Discord server where you can speak directly to the team, and get your questions answered.

Will all of the $2,000,000 be allocated in this round?

Not necessarily, no. While this figure represents the total amount available, investment in projects will only be made if the team deem them right for the incubator.

Can I submit more than one project?

Yes – You may submit multiple projects, but they must all be submitted separately and in line with our submission guidelines.

Can I apply for investment if my project is already in production or part-finished?

Yes – you can apply for any post-production or finishing funds that are required to complete your project. However please do note that your project will still be subject to the standard investment terms and conditions even if it is part funded.

Is There A Submission Deadline?

The deadline for applications to be submitted for the first round of investment is 11pm on Friday, 31st May 2024. Apply Here.

Who decides whether my project is granted investment?

The investment panel is made up of representatives of FEAR, its parent company Netcreeper Media, and The Independent Horror Society.

Do I have to be a UK resident to apply?

No – this is open to residents of all countries.

Production Of Your Short Film

Will FEAR and/or The Independent Horror Society be producing my short horror film?

No. The filmmaker/applicant is responsible for the production of the short film, with the IHS team being available on an advisory basis if required. If you have no filmmaking/production experience but still have an amazing idea, then you are still welcome to submit. If your concept is strong enough then we may be able to help assemble a production team, but fully-scoped out applications will likely be given priority.

If my project is approved, when will I receive my investment?

The investment drawdown timeline will be agreed upon by the filmmaker/applicant and the investment panel during the latter stages of the submission process.

What currency will my investment be sent in?

As FEAR are a blockchain-linked company, your final amount investment will be sent to you in Bitcoin. You can then immediately transfer this into the currency of your choice. If you are unsure as to how to work with Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency, full instructions and advice will be given by the FEAR team.

If my project is approved, when will I need to deliver the finished short film?

The final delivery date will be agreed upon by the filmmaker/applicant and the investment panel during the latter stages of the submission process.

Will my short film need to include extra content for potential game development?

It's very likely that you will need to incorporate extra content into your project that will be used if it goes on to be developed into a game. However you are NOT expected to detail out exactly what will be needed in your initial application. Extra content will be discussed in the latter stages of the application process and before the total budget is finalised.

Your Finished Short Film

What will happen to my short film once it has been completed?

Once your short film is finished and is ready to go live, it will be made exclusively available to watch for free on the FEAR Horror Hub where it will be available for the world to see!

If I receive investment, can I still enter my completed short into film festivals?

Yes absolutely – we can also work with you on selecting the best festival options for your film if required. The full details will be discussed with each filmmaker/producer during the latter stages of the application process.

IP Ownership

Who will own the IP for my short film if I receive investment?

As the investor, FEAR will own the underlying IP of any film it funds. However, we firmly believe in fair and equal distribution of any financial gains from any IP deals made.

The most likely revenue stream that could be realised from your project is from game sales. The exact split of revenue will be agreed upon during the application process and based on the scope of the project and development. But there will likely be a guaranteed base percentage for the filmmaker, along with extra percentage tiers being made available depending on the overall quality of delivery and/or other pre-agreed factors.

For clarity, no agreements will be signed until all parties (including the applicant) are happy with the revenue share arrangements.

Will FEAR or The IHS own any of the IP if my project is not chosen for investment?

No. Neither FEAR nor any of its partners or subsidiaries will lay claim to any IP of any project submitted, that it does not invest in.

Will I be able to use my created IP in future projects (such as sequels and feature films)?

If any funded project goes on to be a success as a standalone film and/or game, then FEAR will look to develop extra content (including feature films) to maximise the use of the IP. And as this is an 'incubator', the original applicant and/or filmmaker will of course be offered the chance to develop this alongside the FEAR team.

If a film maker wants to develop a film from an existing IP already out in the industry this may also be possible and we welcome applicants of all kinds whereby talks can be made on a case by case basis.

Got further questions? Contact us directly at get in touch