TV Show and Film Funding for Investors in MENA: A Reference Guide

In the MENA region, there is no shortage of ambitious investors. From real estate developers to F&B magnates, logistics experts to retail pioneers, the business landscape is filled with bright, driven individuals seeking new ways to diversify their portfolios. At events like the Saudi Media Forum and the Future of Media Exhibition, our booth attracted an impressive mix of successful entrepreneurs — not from the media industry, but from everywhere else. So what brought them to a media-focused exhibition? The answer is simple: the glitz, the storytelling, and the unique potential of the entertainment sector.

Media is unlike any other industry — it’s dynamic, emotionally resonant, and inherently connected to nearly every other field. That’s why more and more MENA investors are eyeing this space, eager to understand how tradable media assets can serve as a powerful tool for diversification, creativity, and long-term returns.

This article is for those investors. Investing in MENA’s media industry isn’t a leap into the unknown — it’s a strategic step into a sector rich with opportunity. Whether you're backing a bold new series idea or joining a blockbuster in post-production, understanding the funding phases is crucial to making smart, well-informed decisions. This guide breaks down the three core stages of film and television financing — development, production, and post-production — and offers clear insights into the pros, cons, and key terms every investor should know. If you're considering investing in the entertainment industry, this is your essential starting point.

1. 🎥 The 3 Phases of TV Show or Film Funding

🌟 Investor Pros and Cons by Funding Phase

🎥 Phase 2 Deep Dive: Production Funding- The part where most investors decide to JOIN THE FUN!

Pros:

• The project is real and in motion.
• Risk is easier to assess (you see cast, script, budget).
• You may receive ownership stakes or backend shares.
• Pre-sales lower risk.
• Producers' credits enhance visibility.   

Cons:

• Requires bigger capital.
• Risk of delays, unexpected costs.
• Tastes may shift by the time production ends.
• Returns take longer (usually after release).

Summary:

“At Production, the ship has left the dock — but storms can still sink it before it reaches the market.”

💼 What Are Backend Shares?    -→ GOOD TO KNOW!

Backend Shares = Getting a percentage of profits after the film or series is sold and released.  In other words, profit participation. You earn money based on how well the project performs financially.

Sources of backend income:

• Box office
• TV licensing
• Streaming platform deals
• International rights sales

Example:

• Invest $200,000
• Earn 5% backend share
• Show makes $5M profit ➔ you receive $250,000.

Caution:

• Smart investors ask for gross backend shares (from revenue) instead of net backend shares (after studio expenses).
• Accounting maneuvers can hide profits.

🏆 How Backend Shares Are Negotiated?  

** Generally this is how things are done.  Of course, in MENA, things could be a little different ;)

Important Clauses:

• Gross Participation: Get paid from revenue, not "net profit."
• First-Dollar Gross: Paid from the first money earned.
• Waterfall Priority: Ensure early payment in revenue distribution.

Summary:

"Backend shares are powerful — but only if smartly negotiated upfront."

🏅 Key Takeaway

Smart investors protect their backend deals and carefully assess risk at each funding phase

Interested to find cross- regional investment partners in TV and Film projects? 

 Find out if you qualify!