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Budget Sample: Production Budget

by Robin White and Loretta Williams

This is a list of budget categories to think about when preparing grant applications for large projects. It's pretty comprehensive, but there is always some variation, so tailor it to suit your own project. You might also look at the Start-Up Budget for some one-time costs that you will incur if you are starting your production business from scratch. When you make your grant application, please be realistic about your cost estimates. Find out how much things really cost and base your budget on that. Don't scrimp on the budget because of fears about how much funding you think you may get. If you make your budget realistic you will help yourself later by avoiding shortfalls and subsidies out of your own pocket. And you will help other producers by not creating an unrealistic, artificially low unit cost.

Utilities
Office Rent
Auto Expenses
Phone bills
Cell phone
DSL/ISP
Other office supplies
Computer software
Upgrades
Equipment
Repair and Maintaince

Insurance
Business Insurance
Liability Insurance
Bank Charges
Checking Account

Domain Registration
Web Hosting
Web Producer ( to update site)

Editor
Engineer
Studio time/tape syncs
Scholar Advisors

Distribution Charges
CD Duplication
Mailing for CDs
Satellite charges
Media
DATs/Disks
CDRs
Film/Cartridges
Books & Magazines
Professional subscriptions
Newspapers
Archives/Online Database
Mailing
Fedex
Music
Music rights
Musicologist

Foundation Center Fees
Grant Writer

Marketing Firm
Newspaper Advertising
Postcards & mailing
Printing collateral
CD Duplication
Mailing for CDs
Conference Fees/Travel
Travel Costs

Bookkeeper
Legal Services
Salaries
Fringe Benefits
Payroll Expense Taxes
Federal Taxes
Worker's Comp