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Animation Studio Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business Plans » Arts & Craft Sector

Are you about starting an animation studio ? If YES, here is a complete sample animation studio business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

An animation studio is a company that is involved in the production of animated media. Such companies conceive of products to produce, own the physical equipment for production, employ operators for that equipment, and hold a major stake in the sales or rentals of their animation works.

This type of business is not capital intensive and you can start the business from your savings and from your home office. If you are hardworking and you have the right network in place, you can generate your startup capital from one business deal.

However, starting up a big – time animation studio business may not only require pretty huge startup capital, it also needs a significant investment capital, solid planning, and attention to detail in order to keep your business profitable.

If you are diligent enough and if you have good business / marketing strategies, you can build the business from scratch to profitability within record time. Below is a sample animation studio business plan template that can help you to successfully write your own with little or no difficulty.

A Sample Animation Studio Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Animation studio business falls under the Video Post-production Services industry and the industry includes companies that prepare motion pictures for public distribution by performing editing, subtitling, closed captioning, animation and other special effects services.

It is important to state that companies that are involved in movie or television production and perform post – production activities in – house are not part of this industry.

Following consumer disinterest in 3D film and shifting interest from TV to online content, many animation studios have re – strategized and re-positioned their client base toward the increasing number of online streaming services and advertisers that require editing services for their productions, boosting revenue for the Video Post-production Services industry.

Despite the fact this new range of digital post-production activities has created a pressing need for highly skilled post-production teams that are used to new digital effects, the market has simultaneously been flooded with professional editing software and increasingly affordable hardware.

The Video Post-production Services Industry is currently in the growth stage of its life cycle. Statistics has it that the Video Post-production Services Industry in the united states of America, is worth over $6 billion, with an estimated growth rate of 3.8 percent.

There are about 2,501 registered and licensed video post-production / animation studios in the United States and they are responsible for employing about 26,545 people. Despite the fact that Technicolor SA can boast of having a lion market share in the industry; the industry is still very much open for competitions from all players.

Research conducted by IBISWorld shows that the concentration of most film and TV studios heavily influences the areas in which video post-production companies establish their business locations. Historically, industry operators have needed to locate their facilities near major studios to quickly transport completed reels and receive immediate feedback.

The report further stated that digital distribution technology has greatly reduced the need for post-production companies to be so closely located to their clients, although many of the industry’s oldest companies continue to do so out of convenience.

The animation studio business will continue to blossom because businesses that are into movies, entertainment and advertisements will always patronize their services. Despite the fact that the industry seems over – saturated, there is still room big enough to accommodate aspiring entrepreneurs who intend opening their own animation studio in the United States of America.

Some of the factors that encourage entrepreneurs to start their own animation studio business is that the business has pretty low entry barriers, it is a thriving business and the business is easy to set up and manage with relatively minimal startup capital and manpower and it is a business that is not location bound.

You can have your animation studio in the United States of America and work for clients in Hong Kong or any other country.

Over and above, the animation studio business is very open to any aspiring entrepreneur who has acquired the required trainings, skills and perhaps professional certifications to start up. Just ensure that your studio is located in an environment with the right demography and you will be fine.

2. Executive Summary

Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. is a U.S based films and animation studio. We have been able to secure a standard studio facility in a busy business district in Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena – California. Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. will be involved in the production of a wide genre of animations.

Our business goal is to become one of the leading animation studios in the United States and we will make sure that every production job that leaves our company can favorable compete with the best in the industry. Our workers are going to be selected from a pool of talented and highly creative animation artists in and around Pasadena – California.

We will make sure that we take all the members of our workforce through the required trainings that will position them to meet the expectation of the company. At Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. our client’s best interest come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics.

We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by delivering excellent jobs and also meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely. Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. is a private business that is owned and managed by Sally Daniels.

Daniels has a Degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Illinois. This Arlington, Virginia native originally attended college to become a video game developer and has Advanced Professional Certificate in Animation, Certified Professional Animators, Toon Boom Certification and 3D Modeling, Art & Animation Certification.

3. Our Products and Services

Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. was established with the aim of maximizing profits in the Video Post-production Services Industry.

We want to compete favorably with the leading animation studios in the United States of America which is why we have but in place a competent quality assurance team that will ensure that all our animation production services meet and even surpass our customers’ expectations and match international best practices.

Our service offerings are listed below;

  • Post processing animation video content
  • Audio editing (adding looping and sound effects)
  • Adding closed captioning, subtitles or dubbing
  • Creating and inserting graphics, animation or special effects
  • Creating credits
  • Formatting animation content for various media
  • Receiving and incorporating feedback from test audiences
  • Promotional activities

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

  • Our vision is to establish a standard animation studio whose production and brand will not only be accepted in Pasadena – California but also throughout the United States of America.
  • Our mission is to build a world class animation studio that will be known to produce top – notch animation contents and to become the number one choice for TV.
  • We want to build an animation studio that can favorably compete with other leading brands in the industry.

Our Business Structure

Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio intends starting small, but hopes to grow big in order to compete favorably with leading studios in the industry. We are aware of the importance of building a solid business structure that can support the picture of the kind of world class business we want to own.

This is why we are committed to only hire the best hands within our area of operations. We will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, hardworking, creative, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more as agreed by the board of trustees of the company. In view of the above, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

  • Chief Executive Officer
  • Creative Director
  • Human Resources and Admin Manager
  • Sales and Marketing Executive

Animation Artists

Client Service Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

  • Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results
  • Responsible for providing direction for the business
  • Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
  • Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
  • Evaluates the success of the organization

Creative Director:

  • Serves as project manager of the organization; works directly with employees
  • Responsible for designing and approving concepts for animation production
  • Accomplishes subsidiary objectives by establishing plans, budgets, and results measurements; allocating resources; reviewing progress; making mid-course corrections.
  • Maintains quality service by establishing and enforcing organization standards.
  • Makes certain that production and development department perform efficiently, coordinate employee efforts, and facilitate communications between management and animation artists/specialist
  • Ensures that the organization work in line with international best practices.

Admin and HR Manager

  • Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
  • Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of HR Policies, Procedures and Processes
  • Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
  • Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
  • Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
  • Carries out induction for new team members
  • Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
  • Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
  • Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Sales and Marketing Manager

  • Manage external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
  • Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts
  • Writes winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
  • Creates new markets cum businesses for the organization
  • Empowers and motivates the sales team to meet and surpass agreed targets

Accountant/Cashier:

  • Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
  • Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports
  • Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
  • Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
  • Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
  • Responsible for administering payrolls
  • Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
  • Handles all financial transactions for Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc.
  • Serves as internal auditor for Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc.
  • In charge of post processing animation video content
  • Handles audio editing (adding looping and sound effects)
  • Adds closed captioning, subtitles or dubbing
  • Creates and inserts graphics, animation or special effects
  • Creates credits
  • Responsible for formatting animation content for various media
  • In charge of promotional activities
  • Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
  • Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
  • Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to potential clients when they make enquiries
  • Receives parcels / documents for the company
  • Distributes mails in the organization
  • Handles any other duties as assigned by the human resources and admin manager.

6. SWOT Analysis

Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. employed the services of a professional in the area of business consulting and structuring to assist our organization in building a well – structured animation studio that can favorably compete in the highly competitive industry in the United States.

Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc.;

Our core strength lies in the power of our team; our workforce. We have a team with excellent qualifications and experience in various niche areas in the animation production. Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected workforce, we have some of the latest software apps and equipment and of course our work output and services will be guided by international best practices.

As a new animation studio in Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena – California, it might take some time for our organization to break into the market and gain acceptance especially from high profile clients in the already saturated and highly competitive the Video Post-production Services industry; that is perhaps our major weakness. Another weakness is that we may not have the required cash to promote our business the way we would want to.

  • Opportunities:

The opportunities in the Video Post-production Services industry is massive considering the number of organizations that would need our services. As a standard films and animation studio, we are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that is available in the industry.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing/spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new films and animation studio in same location where our target market exists and who may want to adopt same Business model like us.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

  • Market Trends

The Video Post-production Services industry over time has experienced rapid growth due to rapid technological advancements. Online video is one major trend in the film and video production industry. Recent statistics from Comscore show that on an average day in 2011, over 100 million Americans viewed an online video content.

This represents growth of 43 percent over the previous year. Well over 43.5 billion videos were streamed in December 2011 alone; a 44 percent increase over the previous year. This growth shows no signs of dwindling, as people increase the number of videos they watch, in addition to viewing longer form content on leading video sites such as Netflix and Hulu.

Another known trend in the film and video production industry is that most production companies are trying as much as possible to recreate themselves on a regular basis and also to be on top of their game.

8. Our Target Market

When it comes to film and animation video production business, your animation movies can be marketed to adults, children as well as teenagers. In view of that, we have created strategies that will enable us reach out to various corporate organizations and individual who we know will need our products and services.

We have conducted our market research and we will ensure that our studio attracts the kind of clients we would love to work with. Below is a list of the people and organizations that we have specifically market our services to;

  • Recording Artists
  • Advertising and Branding Agencies
  • Corporate Organizations (Branding and Advertising Agencies et al)
  • Teenagers, Adults and Children
  • TV stations

Our competitive advantage

The competition in the Video Post-production Services industry is getting stiffer by the day, you have to be highly creative and come up with appealing designs and concepts in order to survive in the industry.

The Video Post-production Services industry is indeed a profitable and at the same time a highly competitive industry; it enjoys strong demand as organizations and individuals continue to request for animation videos for entertainment or promotional purposes.

We are quite aware that to be highly competitive in the Video Post-production industry means that you are not only expected to deliver highly creative animation videos, but you must be able to meet set targets.

Our competitive advantage lies in the power of our team; our workforce. We have a team with excellent qualifications and experience in various niche areas in the industry. We equally have some of the latest 3D printing machines and equipment and of course our work output and services will be guided by international best practices.

Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

  • Sources of Income

Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to meet and surpass the expectations of our clients. Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. will generate income by offering the following services;

  • Postprocessing animation video content

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain, there would always be corporate organizations and individuals who would need the services of films and animation studios whenever they have to conduct promotions and branding.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in the industry and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income from the first six months of operation and grow our animation studio to enviable heights.

We have been able to examine the animation video production market, we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. Below are the sales projections for Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc., it is based on the location of our business and of course the wide range of our services and target market;

  • First Fiscal Year: $250,000
  • Second Fiscal Year: $400,000
  • Third Fiscal Year: $750,000

N.B : This projection was done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

  • Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be equipped to meet their set targets.

Our goal is to grow Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. to become one of the leading studios in the United States of America which is why we have mapped out strategies that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with not only in Pasadena – California but also in other cities in the United States of America.

Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients and win animation videos contracts;

  • Introduce our films and animation studio by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to corporate organizations, advertising and branding agencies, religious organizations and key stake holders.
  • Promptness in bidding for animation video production contracts from the government and other organizations
  • Advertise our business in relevant business magazines, newspapers, TV and radio stations.
  • List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
  • Attend relevant international and local expos, seminars, and business fairs et al
  • Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets
  • Leverage on the internet to promote our business
  • Engage direct marketing approach
  • Join local chambers of commerce and industries to network and market our services
  • Encourage word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with brand and publicity consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market.

We are set to become the number one choice for both corporate and individual clients which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our studio. Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc.;

  • Place adverts on both print (newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
  • Sponsor relevant community based events
  • Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook, twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our services
  • Install our billboards in strategic locations all around Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena – California
  • Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
  • Contact corporate organizations in our target areas by calling them up and informing them of Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. and the services we offer
  • List our films and animation studio in local directories
  • Advertise our films and animation studio in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
  • Ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles are branded with our company

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Almost all films and animation studios adopts all the available pricing system as it applies to the genre or type of the job or project they are expected to execute.

At Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. we will adopt all the pricing system as is obtainable in the industry but we will ensure that we keep the prices of our services a little below the average market rate by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance from corporate organizations. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to all our customers at regular intervals.

  • Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America.

Here are the payment options that Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. will make available to her clients;

  • Payment via bank transfer
  • Payment via online bank transfer
  • Payment via mobile money
  • Payment via Point of Sales Machines (POS Machines)
  • Payment via check
  • Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our client make payment for animation videos without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

The cost of setting up film and animation production studio can be quite expensive especially if you want to start a standard film and animation studio. Essentially, this are the area we are looking towards spending our startup capital on;

  • The Total Fee for incorporating the Business in Los Angeles, California – $750.
  • The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license – $2,500
  • The amount needed to acquire a suitable office facility with enough space for standard movie production studio in a business district 6 months (Re – Construction of the studio facility inclusive) – $100,000.
  • The cost for equipping the office (computers, printers, fax machines, furniture, telephones, filing cabins, safety gadgets and electronics et al) – $2,000
  • The cost for equipping the movie production studio with the required video gears – $10,000
  • The cost of launching our official Website – $600
  • Budget for paying at least 5 employees for 2 months and utility bills – $50,000
  • Additional expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al) – $2,500
  • Miscellaneous – $10,000

Going by the report from the market research and feasibility studies conducted, we will need about four hundred and fifty thousand ( 450,000 ) U.S. dollars to successfully set up a medium scale but standard animation studio in the United States of America.

Generating Startup Capital for Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc.

Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio is owned by Sally Daniels. She has decided to restrict the sourcing of the startup capital for the business to just three major sources.

  • Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
  • Generate part of the startup capital from friends and other extended family members
  • Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 ( Personal savings $85,000 and soft loan from family members $15,000 ) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $350,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

One of our major goals of starting Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to offer our animation video production a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Sally Daniels® Films & Animation Studio, Inc. will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner of our business strategy.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of ten years or more as determined by the board of the organization. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

  • Business Name Availability Check: Completed
  • Business Incorporation: Completed
  • Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
  • Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
  • Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
  • Securing a standard office facility plus renovation of the facility: Completed
  • Application for business license and permit: Completed
  • Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
  • Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
  • Generating part of the startup capital from the founders: Completed
  • Writing of Business Plan: Completed
  • Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
  • Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
  • Design of Logo for the business: Completed
  • Secure trademark for our products: In Progress
  • Printing of Promotional Materials: Completed
  • Recruitment of employees: In Progress
  • Purchase of the needed furniture, office equipment, software applications, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
  • Creating Official Website for the business: In Progress
  • Creating Awareness for the business: In Progress
  • Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
  • Establishing business relationship with vendors and key players in the industries: In Progress

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Sample Animation Studio Business Plan

  • January 18, 2023

ANIMATION PRODUCTION BUSINESS PLAN SAMPLE

While skills are a necessary part of starting an animation studio business, such aren’t enough. There is the need for a structure that guarantees success.

Hence the need for a plan.

This animation company business plan sample is written to enhance your chances of getting it right. We’ve noticed over the years that people fail not because they lack the skills but because their business isn’t properly planned.

Need to write a plan for your venture? Download a FREE Business Plan PDF Sample to develop a template for your own startup.

If you find yourself in this category, this template might be of interest.

– Executive Summary

Illusions Animation Studio is located in Syracuse, NY. We offer several types of professional animation products and services. Such services are provided for clients in the healthcare and entertainment industries. We have chosen this niche due to our expertise in such areas.

Prior to our decision to establish our studio, we’ve worked with major studios across the United States. Hence within over 3 decades of experience, our studios will be well managed. In line with our goals, we are also recruiting some of the best hands in the industry. This will give us the much needed manpower boost to meet demands.

Our Services

We offer multiple services that include trainings as well as animation services. Thus under training, we provide commercial as well as corporate trainings. Under animation, such services include turbosquid, virtual reality, storyboarding, lighting, rigging, texturing and modelling. Others are rendering, and compositing.

Our Mission

We have the mission of deepening creativity in the industry. In other words, we will be active proactive by being actively involved in using latest animation concepts through in-depth research. Client perception of our services matters alot to us. Therefore we are working on a wholistic approach to how clients and their jobs are handled from the moment they establish contact.

Our vision is simple; to become the go-to guys whenever professional animation jobs are needed. As such, there is a deliberate effort to provide on-the-job training to our workforce. This is down with the purpose of keeping up with current ideas and concepts within the industry.

We have a plan to finance our operations. This involves applying for a loan in addition to savings kept for this purpose. Already, we have met our savings target of 2/$200,000.00. However this isn’t sufficient as an additional $500,000.00 needs to be sourced.

This will go into our expenses which covers equipment purchase as well as running costs. We have decided to operate from home temporarily. However this will change within a year. We expect that demand will have risen within this time which will prompt an expansion.

SWOT Analysis

To build a strong foundation for our business, our state of affairs needs to be examined. Hence we have embarked on such a mission to enable us adjust accordingly where necessary. This has revealed the following information;

i. Strength

This is a key determinant of how competitive we will be as a business. Therefore we’ve identified our areas of strength to include our passion, expertise and the capacity to adapt to changing times and innovation. This fuels our resolve to establish a world-class animation studio.

ii. Weakness

In being frank, we have identified our areas of deficiency. These include our current capacity as well as our market reach. Addressing such areas are a priority. Through a rigorous and effective marketing strategy as well as expansion drive, such weaknesses will be well addressed.

iii. Opportunities

Animation plays a huge role in information dissemination. Thus this is a great opportunity for businesses such as ours to grow. Despite the number of animation studios, there’s still room for new entrants. In addition to this, innovation drives the market. Therefore the more innovative we are, the better our chances of doing well.

iv. Threats

Threats come in the form of an economic recession. During such times, priorities change especially for corporate clients. As a result, there’s less demand for animation services. However this isn’t a common occurrence.

Sales Projection

Sales is of utmost importance for our business. In view of this, we’ve done an assessment of what obtains in the industry. Using such trends in relation to services we’ll provide, we have drawn a three-year projection of sales as shown below;

  • First Financial Year.   $350,000.00
  • Second Financial Year. $600,000.00
  • Third Financial Year.  $2,300,000.00

Competitive Advantage

We are driven by a singular purpose; to set up a thriving animation studio. ‘Thriving’ as used here covers all aspects of our operations. Therefore we are interested in knowing our weakness as well as those of our competitors. By improving such aspects, we will be able to surpass client expectations. The calibre of persons in our employ is also important to us. Hence, we only hire those having the character required to help us achieve our goals.

Marketing Strategy

In setting up an animation studio, there needs to be word out about its existence. In other words, such business is going nowhere unless there’s a deliberate and effective marketing strategy. At Illusions Animation Studio, we are using known effective marketing campaigns. Such include the use of social media, print and electronic as well as word of mouth.

Our marketing team will co-ordinate such activities with the view of reaching a wide audience.

It’s commonly said that he who fails to plan, plans to fail. However, a shabby plan won’t achieve much either. This calls for caution.

The better your plan and its implementation, the better your chances of success. Have you found this sample helpful? We hope you did.

This general guideline should help you avoid common mistakes. You should try as much as possible not to rush the process. The quality, rather than speed should be your focus.

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Business Plan Template for Animators

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Are you an independent animator looking to take your next project to new heights? Look no further than ClickUp's Business Plan Template for Animators! This template is specifically designed to help you outline your goals, target audience, marketing strategies, production budget, and projected revenue streams—all in one place.

With this template, you can:

  • Plan and manage your animation projects with ease
  • Attract potential investors or clients with a comprehensive business plan
  • Stay organized and focused on your goals throughout the entire process

Whether you're a solo animator or running an animation studio, ClickUp's Business Plan Template for Animators is the perfect tool to bring your creative vision to life and make a lasting impact in the industry. Get started today and turn your dreams into animated reality!

Business Plan Template for Animators Benefits

A business plan template for animators is a valuable tool that offers numerous benefits to independent animators or animation studios, including:

  • Streamlining the planning process by providing a structured template to follow
  • Helping set clear goals and objectives for animation projects
  • Assisting in identifying the target audience and developing effective marketing strategies
  • Enabling better financial planning through the creation of a production budget
  • Providing a roadmap for managing animation projects and ensuring timely delivery
  • Enhancing credibility and attracting potential investors or clients with a well-defined business plan

Main Elements of Animators Business Plan Template

Are you an animator looking to take your business to the next level? Look no further than ClickUp's Business Plan Template for Animators! This template is specifically designed to help independent animators and animation studios effectively plan and manage their projects, attract investors, and stay on top of their goals. Here are the main elements of this template:

  • Custom Statuses: Keep track of the progress of your tasks with statuses like Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, and To Do.
  • Custom Fields: Use custom fields like Reference, Approved, and Section to add important details and categorize your business plan sections.
  • Custom Views: Choose from five different views such as Topics, Status, Timeline, Business Plan, and Getting Started Guide to visualize and organize your information in the way that suits you best.

With ClickUp's Business Plan Template for Animators, you'll have all the tools you need to bring your animation projects to life and achieve your business goals.

How To Use Business Plan Template for Animators

Whether you're starting your own animation studio or looking to grow your freelance career, having a solid business plan is crucial. Follow these simple steps to make the most out of the Business Plan Template for Animators in ClickUp:

1. Define your vision and goals

Before diving into the details, take a step back and think about your long-term vision for your animation business. What kind of projects do you want to work on? What is your target audience? What are your revenue goals? Defining your vision and goals will help you create a business plan that aligns with your aspirations.

Use the Goals feature in ClickUp to set clear and measurable objectives for your animation business.

2. Analyze the market and competition

To create a successful business plan, you need to understand the market and your competition. Research the animation industry, identify trends, and analyze the competitive landscape. This will help you identify your unique selling proposition and position your business effectively.

Utilize the Table view in ClickUp to organize and analyze market research data and competition analysis.

3. Determine your target audience and services

Identify your target audience within the animation industry. Are you targeting TV shows, movies, commercials, or video games? Understand their needs, preferences, and pain points. Based on this information, determine the services you'll offer as an animator. Will you focus on character animation, motion graphics, or 3D modeling? Clearly defining your target audience and services will help you tailor your business plan accordingly.

Create custom fields in ClickUp to track your target audience segments and the specific services you'll provide.

4. Develop your financial plan

A strong financial plan is a vital component of any business plan. Outline your revenue streams, pricing strategy, and projected expenses. Consider factors like equipment costs, software licenses, marketing expenses, and overhead costs. Additionally, create a realistic financial forecast for the next 3-5 years to demonstrate the financial viability of your animation business.

Use the Dashboards feature in ClickUp to visualize your financial projections and track your revenue and expenses in real-time.

By following these steps and utilizing the Business Plan Template for Animators in ClickUp, you'll be well-equipped to start or grow your animation business successfully. Remember to regularly review and update your business plan as your goals and the market evolve.

Get Started with ClickUp’s Business Plan Template for Animators

Independent animators or animation studios can use the ClickUp Business Plan Template to effectively plan and manage their animation projects, attract potential investors or clients, and stay organized throughout the process.

To get started, hit “Add Template” to sign up for ClickUp and add the template to your Workspace. Make sure you designate which Space or location in your Workspace you’d like this template applied.

Next, invite relevant members or guests to your Workspace to start collaborating.

Now you can take advantage of the full potential of this template to create a comprehensive business plan for your animation projects:

  • Use the Topics View to outline and organize different sections of your business plan, such as goals, target audience, marketing strategies, production budget, and projected revenue streams.
  • The Status View will help you track the progress of each section, categorizing them as Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, or To Do.
  • The Timeline View will give you a visual representation of your project's timeline, allowing you to set deadlines and milestones.
  • The Business Plan View will provide you with a comprehensive overview of your entire business plan, making it easy to review and share with potential investors or clients.
  • The Getting Started Guide View will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to use the template effectively and get started on your business plan.
  • Utilize the custom fields Reference, Approved, and Section to add additional information, track approvals, and categorize different sections of your business plan.
  • Update statuses and custom fields as you progress through each section to keep team members informed of progress.
  • Monitor and analyze your business plan to ensure maximum productivity and success.
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A Touch of Business

How To Start Animation Studio

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting A Animation Studio Business Points to Consider Resources Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

Introduction

Starting an animation studio business can be an exciting endeavor. In this overview, we will provide you with helpful information to get started.

We’ll explore various examples of successful animation studios, giving you a glimpse of what to expect in this industry.

We’ll also discuss important issues to consider, such as finding talented animators, acquiring the necessary equipment, and creating a solid business plan.

Additionally, we’ll share valuable resources and information to support you during the startup phase and as your business grows.

Bookmark this page for future reference and share it if you find it helpful!

Let’s get started with the steps.

Steps to Starting an animation studio Business

1. gaining an overview of what you’re getting into.

In this section, we will provide helpful insights and guidance to assist you in making important decisions for your animation studio business.

One crucial factor for success in this industry is you. Understanding your feelings and motivations about owning and running your own business is important. Taking the time to reflect on this aspect will enable you to make informed decisions when it comes to starting an animation studio business.

a.) Is Starting a Business the Right Step for You?

Passion plays a vital role in the success of an animation studio business.

When you have a deep passion for your business, it becomes the driving force behind your efforts. When problems arise, you actively seek solutions. On the other hand, if you lack passion for your business, when problems occur, you’ll be more likely to give up.

Let’s imagine a scenario: Imagine you win a $50 million lottery. You generously help your loved ones and donate to charities. In the following two years, you travel the world, buy your dream home, and secure a vacation house for relaxing getaways. You own all the cars and gadgets you’ve ever wanted. Anything you desire is at your fingertips. Even after all this, you still have $25 million left in cash and investments to live as you please.

Now, think about this important question:

Would you still want to start an animation studio business in this situation?

If your answer is yes, it demonstrates that you genuinely have a passion for your animation studio business and are on the right path.

However, if your answer is no, it leads to another question: What would you prefer to do instead? Maybe it’s worth considering pursuing that alternative path instead.

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business

The Reasons for Starting a Business

Starting your animation studio business may seem fantastic: being in charge, making decisions, earning a good income, and living your dream. This can become a reality if you succeed, but until then, it can be challenging.

Before diving into business ownership, it’s important to ensure that it’s the right fit for you and that you have the right reasons for starting a business.

I recommend reading my article below, which will help you identify important factors and guide you in making the right choice before moving forward.

See Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify key points for a new business owner.

b.) A Quick Overview of Owning an animation studio Business

Animation Studio Business Overview

Running an animation studio business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. It involves various responsibilities and tasks to ensure the smooth operation of the studio and the successful production of animated content.

As the owner or manager of an animation studio, you are responsible for overseeing the overall business operations. This includes managing finances, developing and executing business strategies, and handling client relationships.

Additionally, you play a crucial role in the creative aspects of the studio. You collaborate with animators, storyboard artists, and other creative professionals to bring ideas to life. You may provide creative direction, review and feedback on projects, and ensure the final animations meet the desired quality standards.

An average day running an animation studio involves administrative duties and creative work. You may start the day by checking and responding to emails, handling financial matters such as budgeting and invoicing, and communicating with clients or potential clients. You may meet with the creative team throughout the day to discuss ongoing projects, review progress, and provide guidance. You may also allocate resources, manage timelines, and address any challenges during production.

A woman looking up at at an offer.

Overall, running an animation studio requires a balance of business sense, creative vision, and effective communication skills to ensure the success and growth of the studio.

Key Points To Succeed in Animation Studio Business

To succeed in an animation studio business, several key points are essential. Firstly, maintaining high creativity and quality in your animations is crucial. Consistently delivering visually appealing and engaging content will help attract and retain customers.

Additionally, efficient project management and meeting deadlines are essential to build a strong reputation in the industry. Clear communication with clients, understanding their needs and expectations, and providing excellent customer service is vital for customer satisfaction.

Moreover, staying updated with industry trends and continuously improving your skills and techniques will help you stay competitive in the animation market.

Finally, building strong relationships and networking within the animation community can lead to collaborations and new business opportunities.

Challenges of Running an animation studio Business

Running an animation studio business comes with its fair share of challenges. It’s important to be aware of these hurdles and prepare accordingly to navigate them effectively.

One of the main challenges is the intense competition in the animation industry. Many talented studios are out there, so standing out and attracting clients can be demanding. Maintaining a consistent stream of projects and clients can also be challenging, especially during slower periods.

Another challenge is managing a team of creative professionals. Coordinating different roles, ensuring effective collaboration, and maintaining a positive work environment requires strong leadership skills.

Additionally, animation projects often involve tight deadlines and complex production processes. Managing time and resources efficiently while ensuring quality output can be demanding.

Financial considerations are also significant. Funding the necessary equipment and software licenses and hiring skilled animators can strain the budget. Building a sustainable business model that generates enough revenue can take time and careful planning.

Running an animation studio business requires resilience, adaptability, and a proactive approach to tackle challenges and find creative solutions.

Animation Studio Business Models

Freelance Animation Studio:

Business Model: Independent animators working on a project basis. Setup: Animators work remotely or from their own studio, collaborating with clients on specific projects.

Boutique Animation Studio:

Business Model: Specialized animation services targeting niche markets. Setup: Small team of animators and artists focusing on specific styles or techniques, offering personalized and unique animation solutions.

Full-Service Animation Studio:

Business Model: Comprehensive animation services catering to various industries. Setup: Larger team with departments handling different aspects of the animation process, from concept development and storyboarding to animation production and post-production.

In-House Animation Studio:

Business Model: Animation studio established within a larger organization or media company. Setup: Dedicated team of animators working exclusively for the parent company, creating animation content for marketing, advertising, or entertainment purposes.

Creative Agency with Animation Services:

Business Model: Integrated agency offering animation as part of their creative services. Setup: Agency providing a range of creative services, including animation, alongside other services like branding, marketing, and design.

Animation Production House:

Business Model: Focuses on producing original animation content for distribution or licensing. Setup: In-house team of animators, writers, and producers creating animated films, TV shows, or web series for distribution through various channels.

Animation Education and Training Studio:

Business Model: Providing animation education and training services to aspiring animators. Setup: Offering courses, workshops, and mentoring programs to teach animation skills and techniques to students.

Animation Software and Tools Development:

Business Model: Developing and selling animation software or tools to professionals. Setup: Software development team creating animation software or tools for animators to enhance their workflow and productivity.

These are just a few examples of the various setups and business models that exist within the animation studio industry. Each setup has its own unique characteristics and caters to different market demands and client needs.

Pros and Cons

Pros of Running an Animation Studio Business:

  • Creative Fulfillment: Being able to bring imaginative ideas to life through animation.
  • Entrepreneurial Freedom: Owning and managing your business, making decisions, and setting the direction.
  • Potential for Profit: Successful animation studios can generate substantial revenue and profitability.
  • Collaborative Environment: Working with talented animators and creative professionals collaboratively.
  • Diverse Project Opportunities: Animation can be applied to various industries, providing many project opportunities.
  • Industry Recognition: The potential to gain recognition and awards for exceptional animations.
  • Flexibility: Depending on the business setup, there can be flexibility in working hours and locations.

Cons of Running an Animation Studio Business:

  • High Competition: The animation industry is highly competitive, making it challenging to stand out.
  • Uncertain Income: Inconsistent project flow can lead to uncertain income and financial stability.
  • Creative Challenges: Overcoming creative blocks and finding innovative ideas for animations.
  • Project Management: Balancing multiple projects, deadlines, and client expectations can be demanding.
  • Equipment and Software Costs: Animation requires expensive equipment and software, adding to the initial investment.
  • Staffing Issues: Finding and retaining skilled animators can be challenging in a competitive talent market.
  • Industry Trends: Staying updated with evolving animation techniques and technologies requires continuous learning and adaptation.

2. Research

Animation studio business research.

Before diving into starting an animation studio business, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research to make informed decisions.

Having access to quality information is key in understanding if this business is suitable for you. One effective way to gather valuable insights is by connecting with industry professionals already working in animation.

These experienced individuals can provide reliable information that you can rely on. Spending time with them can be invaluable as you gain insights from their years of experience and knowledge.

To assist you in finding the right people to talk to and approaching them effectively, I have written an article. It contains ideas and tips to guide you in this process.

I strongly recommend reading the article by following the link below before embarking on your animation studio business. It will give you a solid understanding of what to expect and help you make informed decisions.

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start  for all the details.

Target Audience

Understanding your target market is essential for the success of your animation studio business. It involves gaining insights into the people likely to be interested in your animation services.

Here are some individuals who might be interested in what you offer:

  • Film and TV production companies are seeking animated content.
  • Advertising agencies looking for animated commercials or promotional videos.
  • Game development studios in need of animated characters or assets.
  • Educational institutions seeking animated educational materials.
  • Independent filmmakers and content creators interested in adding animation to their projects.
  • Businesses in various industries looking to enhance their branding through animation.

By understanding your customers, you can improve your advertising and sales strategies to effectively target and engage them. For more information on understanding your target market, please refer to  How To Understand Your Target Market.

3. Looking at Financials:

In an animation studio business, it’s crucial to understand startup costs, monthly expenses, revenues, and profits. Here’s an overview of these aspects:

Startup Costs:

  • Accurately estimating startup costs is vital for a successful launch. Underestimating can lead to running out of money while overestimating can make it difficult to secure funding.
  • Create a comprehensive list of everything you need and research prices. Be prepared for unexpected expenses that may arise during the process.
  • Costs will vary based on the size of your operation, whether you hire employees or work alone, and the location of your business (e.g., big city versus small town).
  • Consider purchasing new or used equipment, as it can impact startup costs.

For more detailed information, refer to my article on  Estimating Startup Costs.

Sales and Profit:

  • Your sales depend on factors such as the popularity of your products and services, effective marketing strategies, and profitability per sale.
  • Aim for enough sales to cover all expenses and generate a profit exceeding monthly costs, including your living expenses.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue

It’s important to conduct further research and use these ideas as a starting point for a more detailed understanding of your specific business. For more information and insights, refer to my article on understanding startup costs and generating sales and profits in the animation studio business.

Sample Lists

I. Sample Estimated Start-Up Costs for an Animation Studio Business in the USA

  • Rent for Office/Studio Space (Annual): $30,000
  • Office Furnishings: $20,000
  • Animation Software Licenses: $50,000
  • Computers & Hardware: $30,000
  • Special Equipment (drawing tablets, green screens, etc.): $15,000
  • Professional Services (Legal, Accounting, etc.): $10,000
  • Marketing/Advertising for Launch: $10,000
  • Business Registration & Licensing: $2,000
  • Initial Office Supplies: $3,000
  • Insurance (1st Year): $5,000

Grand Total: $175,000

Please note, this list assumes that the business is starting from scratch. Costs could be lower or higher based on the specific needs and scale of the studio.

II. Sample Estimated Monthly Operating Expenses for an Animation Studio Business in the USA

  • Rent (Monthly): $2,500
  • Utilities: $500
  • Animation Software Licenses Maintenance: $500
  • Salaries & Wages (assume 10 staff to start): $40,000
  • Insurance: $400
  • Office Supplies: $200
  • Internet/Telephone: $250
  • Equipment Maintenance: $200
  • Marketing & Advertising: $1,500
  • Professional Services (legal, accounting, etc.): $500
  • Taxes: Varies based on revenue and location.

Estimated Monthly Total: $46,550

Please note these are rough estimates. Actual costs will vary based on various factors, including the cost of living in your area, specific equipment needs, salary rates, etc.

III. Sample Revenue and Profit Projection for an Animation Studio Business in the USA

Let’s assume the studio takes on three monthly projects to project revenue and profit, each costing $30,000.

  • Revenue per Month: $90,000
  • Annual Revenue: $1,080,000

Expenses have already been calculated as approximately $46,550 monthly or $558,600 annually.

So, the annual profit before tax would be:

  • Annual Revenue – Annual Expenses = Profit Before Tax
  • $1,080,000 – $558,600 = $521,400

This is a simplified projection and assumes a constant stream of projects. The actual profit could vary based on factors like project scale, client base, and market conditions.

4. Choosing The Right Business Location

Selecting the right location for your animation studio business is a crucial decision that can greatly impact your success.

Operating in a location with no demand for your services can lead to failure even before you start. On the other hand, opening in an area with excessive competition may make it challenging to generate sales.

Ideally, you want a location that combines demand for your services with a reasonable level of competition.

Consider your budget as well. Operating in a densely populated area may provide more exposure, but you must ensure the additional expenses will not hinder your profitability.

Conversely, while a low-cost area may seem appealing, assessing if there will be enough demand to support your business is important.

Choosing the right location is a critical factor in achieving success. Conduct thorough research to ensure you are making the right choice for your animation studio business.

For more about business locations, see Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

5. Choose a Business Name

When selecting a name for your animation studio business, choosing something catchy, appropriate, and easy to remember is important. The name you pick will likely stay with your company for years, so take the time to select one that aligns with your business and satisfies you.

Additionally, securing a matching domain name for your online presence is crucial. Ensure that another business does not already register the name you desire.

Here are business name ideas for an animation studio:

  • Animagic Studios
  • DreamScape Animation
  • Pixelline Productions
  • Animation Avenue
  • Artful Motion Studios
  • MotionMagic Animation
  • Creativa Studios
  • CartoonCraft Studios
  • Animatrix Animation
  • Ink & Frames Animation
  • Visual Vortex Studios
  • Frame by Frame Animations
  • Animagination Studio
  • Stellar Strokes Animation
  • AnimatrixX Studios
  • MagicBrush Animations
  • Lumina Motion Studio
  • Animarvel Productions
  • Colorful Canvas Animations
  • Imaginair Animation

Remember, this list is intended to inspire your creativity in coming up with an original name not already used by another business and is available for registration.

For this important step, see How to Choose a Business Name.

6. Register Your Company

Registering your animation studio business is a crucial step to establishing its legal identity and protecting your rights as a business owner.

Here’s an overview of the importance of registering and considerations to keep in mind:

  • Legal Recognition: Registering your business gives it legal recognition as a separate entity from yourself, providing liability protection and allowing you to enter into contracts.
  • Business Name Protection: Registration helps safeguard your chosen business name, preventing others from using it and potentially causing brand confusion.
  • Access to Services: Registration may be required to access certain services, such as business bank accounts or loans, and to establish credibility with clients and partners.
  • Business Structure: Decide on the most suitable business structure , such as sole proprietorship, partnership , or limited liability company (LLC) , based on your specific needs and preferences.
  • Location: Research and comply with local, regional, and national registration requirements based on the location where you operate your animation studio.
  • Tax Obligations: Understand the tax obligations associated with your chosen business structure and ensure proper registration with tax authorities.

Permits and Licenses to Consider:

  • Business License : Obtain a general business license from your local government or municipality.
  • Animation Software Licenses: Ensure proper licensing for the animation software you use.
  • Copyright and Intellectual Property: Consider copyright registration for your original animations and seek legal advice to protect your intellectual property rights.
  • Music Licensing: Obtain licenses for any copyrighted music used in your animations.
  • Health and Safety Permits: Comply with applicable health and safety regulations, which may vary depending on your location and specific activities.

Remember to consult with a legal professional or business advisor to understand and fulfill all the necessary registration requirements and obtain the relevant permits and licenses for your animation studio business.

See, How to Register your Business  for more.

7. Create Your Corporate Identity

A corporate identity (ID) is a visual design that represents your animation studio business.

It is crucial because it creates the first impression on your customers, and you want it to be positive.

A consistent and professional design across all aspects of your business helps impress new and existing customers.

A corporate ID includes several components, such as:

  • Logo : The symbol or graphic that uniquely represents your animation studio.
  • Business Cards : Cards containing your contact information and logo create a professional image.
  • Website : An online platform that showcases your studio’s work, services, and contact information.
  • Stationery: Envelopes, letterheads, and other paper materials with your logo and branding.
  • Business Sign : A physical sign displaying your studio’s name and logo at your location.
  • Promotional Items: Branded items like pens, notepads, or merchandise that are marketing tools.

A cohesive and well-designed corporate ID helps establish a strong brand presence and builds trust with your audience. It is essential for creating a professional and recognizable image for your animation studio business.

See A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages for more.

8. Writing a Business Plan

A business plan is a vital document for your animation studio business. It serves multiple purposes, such as acquiring funding and attracting investors. It also acts as a roadmap to guide you during the startup phase and when your business is fully operational.

Creating a business plan requires time and effort as you envision what your business will be like when it opens. Expressing the details takes careful consideration.

The effort invested is worthwhile because once the business plan is completed, you will clearly understand what you need to start and how to operate your studio.

When creating your business plan, remember that you have options available. You can write it from scratch, hire a professional, use a template, or utilize business plan software.

Regardless of your chosen approach, it’s important to actively participate in the process, especially if you hire a professional. You want your business plan to be unique and effectively communicate the nature of your animation studio.

Keep in mind that your business plan can evolve and be optimized as you gain experience. Periodically reviewing and making necessary changes is advisable. You may also need to adjust how you operate your business during a review based on new insights.

Sample Business Plan an Animation Studio

Business Plan for SunFlare Animation Studios

Executive Summary

SunFlare Animation Studios is a dynamic, innovative company specializing in the creation of high-quality, engaging 2D and 3D animations for clients across the entertainment, advertising, and education industries. Our mission is to tell compelling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in animation.

Company Description

Founded in 2023, SunFlare Animation Studios is a Texas-based studio. Our diverse team consists of highly skilled animators, story artists, designers, and technicians, all sharing a deep passion for animation and storytelling.

Market Analysis

Industry Description and Outlook

The global animation industry, worth approximately $270 billion in 2020, is projected to reach $360 billion by 2025. Key sectors within the animation industry are entertainment (TV & film), advertising, and education.

Target Market

Our primary target market is the entertainment industry, focusing on animated TV series and films. Secondary markets include businesses needing animated commercials or explainer videos, and educational institutions seeking animated educational materials.

Competitive Analysis

Our main competitors are existing animation studios. However, SunFlare’s advantage lies in our commitment to personalized service, creative storytelling, and cutting-edge animation techniques.

Organization and Management

Organizational Structure

SunFlare is led by CEO and Creative Director Alex Kim, an experienced animator and storyteller. The team consists of a mix of animators, artists, writers, sound engineers, and project managers.

Ownership Structure

SunFlare Animation Studios is a privately owned LLC.

Service Line

SunFlare offers a range of services, including 2D and 3D animation, character design, storyboard creation, and post-production services. We aim to provide comprehensive, end-to-end animation solutions for our clients.

Marketing and Sales

Our marketing strategy includes a strong online presence through our website and social media, targeted advertising in industry publications, and networking at industry events. Sales will primarily be driven by building strong relationships with clients and delivering high-quality projects that exceed their expectations.

Financial Projections

We estimate startup costs at $175,000, including setting up the studio, acquiring equipment, and marketing for the launch. Estimated monthly operating expenses are $46,550.

Assuming an average of 3 projects per month at a rate of $30,000 each, we project a monthly revenue of $90,000 and an annual revenue of $1,080,000. Subtracting the estimated annual operating cost of $558,600, we anticipate a pre-tax profit of $521,400 in our first year of operations.

Funding Request

We are seeking $250,000 in funding to cover our startup costs and provide a buffer for the first few months of operations. In return, we offer a competitive interest rate and repayment plan.

Exit Strategy

Our primary exit strategy is to build a successful company that could become an attractive acquisition target for larger entities in the animation or entertainment industry.

This business plan is intended to serve as a roadmap for SunFlare Animation Studios. We are confident in our ability to build a successful business and look forward to bringing our unique, engaging animations to clients worldwide.

For information on creating your business plan, see,  How to Write a Business Plan.

9. Banking Considerations

Choosing a local bank that specializes in serving business owners is worth considering for your animation studio business.

Opening a dedicated business account helps you separate personal and business expenses, making expense tracking easier and providing documentation for tax purposes.

Building a professional relationship with your banker is beneficial. They can offer assistance and advice when you need funding, and expediting loan processes.

Applying for a merchant account enables you to accept credit and debit card payments. Maintaining a positive relationship with your banker can streamline the application process for a merchant account.

For more, see, How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at, What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

10. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

Getting funding for your animation studio business is crucial in starting and operating it successfully.

There are various funding options available to consider:

  • Traditional Lenders: Approach banks or credit unions to apply for business loans requiring a strong credit history and collateral.
  • Private Loans: Explore loans from private lenders or online platforms that may have less stringent requirements than traditional lenders.
  • Investors: Seek investment from individuals or firms interested in supporting your animation studio business in exchange for a share of ownership or future profits.
  • Selling Assets: Consider selling any assets to generate capital for your business.
  • Collateral: If you have valuable assets, you can use them as collateral to secure a loan.

When meeting with a loan officer, it’s important to consider the following:

  • Present a well-prepared business plan that showcases your vision, market analysis, and financial projections.
  • Demonstrate your understanding of the animation industry and highlight your unique selling points.
  • Show a clear strategy for generating revenue and repaying the loan.

Sample list of documents needed to apply for a business loan for a new animation studio business:

  • Business plan
  • Personal and business financial statements
  • Tax returns
  • Bank statements
  • Proof of collateral
  • Legal documents (licenses, permits, contracts)
  • References or testimonials

Remember, each lender may have specific requirements, so it’s essential to inquire about their expectations and prepare accordingly.

See, Getting a Small Business Loan for more.

11. Software Setup

Software Considerations:

When setting up your animation studio business, it’s important to carefully research and select the right software. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Implementation Ease: It’s easier to start with a software program from the beginning rather than switching to a new system once your data is already in another program.
  • Demo and Reviews: Look for software providers that offer demos, which allow you to try out the software before making a decision. Additionally, read reviews and explore forums to learn from other’s experiences with the software.
  • Expense Tracking and Tax Preparation: Research software options that can help you track expenses and prepare financial documents for filing taxes. Consulting with your bookkeeper or accountant can provide valuable insights to help you choose the right accounting software.

List of Software to Consider for an Animation Studio Business:

  • Animation Software: Examples include Autodesk Maya, Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, and Blender.
  • Project Management Software: Options like Trello, Asana, or Monday.com can help you efficiently manage animation projects, tasks, and deadlines.
  • Accounting Software: Consider popular options such as QuickBooks, Xero, or Wave for managing financial transactions, invoicing, and generating financial reports.
  • Time Tracking Software: Tools like Toggl, Harvest, or Clockify can help track the time spent on different animation projects for accurate billing and project management.
  • Collaboration and File Sharing Software: Explore platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Wrike for seamless collaboration and easy file sharing with your team and clients.

Before deciding, remember to evaluate each software’s features, pricing, and compatibility with your specific needs.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for an animation studio business.

12. Get The Right Business Insurance

Insurance Considerations for an Animation Studio Business:

When seeking insurance for your animation studio business, addressing specific concerns and ensuring you have adequate coverage is important.

Consider the following:

  • General Liability Insurance: Protects against claims of bodily injury, property damage, or personal injury on your premises or during business operations.
  • Property Insurance: Covers damage or loss to your studio equipment, computers, animation tools, and other physical assets.
  • Professional Liability Insurance (Errors and Omissions Insurance): Protects against claims of professional negligence, errors, or omissions that may arise from your animation services.
  • Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required if you have employees, it provides coverage for work-related injuries or illnesses sustained by your staff.
  • Cyber Liability Insurance: Safeguards against data breaches, cyberattacks, or loss of client data, especially if you store or transfer sensitive information online.
  • Business Interruption Insurance: This covers income loss and additional expenses if your studio operations are disrupted due to a covered event, such as a fire or natural disaster.
  • Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Offers coverage for repair or replacement costs in case of equipment breakdown, including specialized animation equipment.
  • Copyright and Intellectual Property Insurance: Protects infringement claims related to your animations or unauthorized use of copyrighted materials.

Remember to consult a competent insurance broker specializing in business insurance to assess your needs and ensure you have comprehensive coverage tailored to your animation studio business.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for animation studio business insurance .

13. Physical Setup

An animation studio business’s physical setup or layout plays a vital role in creating a conducive and efficient working environment. It typically includes designated workstations or desks for animators with the necessary tools and technology.

Collaborative spaces like meeting rooms or creative areas encourage teamwork and idea-sharing. Adequate storage for art supplies, equipment, and project files is essential.

Additionally, having a dedicated area for client meetings or presentations can enhance professionalism. The studio layout should prioritize a comfortable and ergonomic design, with proper lighting and ventilation.

Overall, an effective physical setup ensures a smooth workflow, fosters creativity, and promotes a productive atmosphere for animators and the entire team.

Setting up signage is an important aspect when establishing an animation studio. Install a prominent business sign that can help attract customers.

In addition, if applicable to this type of business, install all other signs required in various areas such as doors, waiting areas, parking, etc.

Clear signage helps visitors navigate your studio and enhances the professional appearance of your business. It ensures that clients and employees can easily find their way and creates a positive impression.

Pay attention to design, visibility, and readability when setting up signage to effectively convey information and enhance the overall experience at your animation studio.

Office Setup 

Your office setup is crucial as you’ll spend significant time managing your animation studio business. An organized office promotes productivity.

It should be equipped with all the necessary tools and resources to effectively manage your business. Ensure you have essential items such as a computer, phone, filing system, and office supplies readily available.

Consider ergonomic furniture for comfort and a well-designed layout for efficiency. Keep your office clean and clutter-free to maintain focus and create a conducive work environment.

A well-equipped and organized office helps you stay on top of tasks, manage projects efficiently, and contribute to the overall success of your animation studio business.

See, Here are Considerations for The Setup of Your Office, for tips and ideas to make your office work for you. Also, have a look at our article About Company Signs.

14. Creating a Website

Having a website for your animation studio business offers numerous benefits. It serves as a digital presence, enabling potential clients and visitors to learn about your services, portfolio, and contact information.

A well-designed website impresses visitors with appealing graphics, showcasing your creative capabilities. Functionality ensures easy navigation, quick loading times, and device compatibility.

Your website can act as a showcase, demonstrating your expertise and attracting new clients. It provides a platform to display your animation samples, testimonials, and client projects. A professional and visually appealing website enhances credibility and encourages potential clients to reach out and collaborate with your animation studio.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

15. Create an External Support Team

Having an external support team of professionals is valuable for an animation studio business. You do not employ these individuals but provide services and advice when needed, usually per-use, contract, or hourly.

Having all team members in place is unnecessary before starting your business. Building professional relationships and finding dependable people takes time. However, it’s important to continuously work on assembling a strong team.

Your support team may include an accountant, lawyer, financial advisor, marketing specialist, technical advisor, and consultant. They offer expertise in their respective fields and can assist you when necessary.

A reliable and skilled support team helps you receive the guidance and services required for your animation studio business. Collaborating with these professionals can contribute to the success and growth of your studio over time.

For more, see, Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

16. Hiring Employees

When you start your animation studio business, you might consider running it independently without hiring employees. This can be a good idea if you can handle it because paying salaries can be expensive, especially in the beginning.

But as your business grows, it may become difficult to handle everything by yourself. At that point, you might need to hire employees. Hiring the right people can make a big difference and greatly increase productivity.

Tips for finding talented animators:

  • Attend animation conferences and industry events to network with professionals and discover new talent.
  • To connect with animators, use online platforms and communities dedicated to animation, such as forums, social media groups, and portfolio websites.
  • Advertise job openings on specialized job boards for animators and creative professionals.
  • Reach out to animation schools and universities to connect with recent graduates or talented students.
  • Consider collaborating with animation agencies or studios to access a pool of experienced animators.
  • Request demo reels or portfolios from potential candidates to evaluate their skills and style.
  • Conduct thorough interviews and assessments to gauge their technical abilities, creativity, and compatibility with your studio’s vision.

The following are job positions or outsourced services you may want to consider as your animation studio business grows and becomes successful:

  • Animator: Responsible for creating the animation and bringing characters and scenes to life.
  • Storyboard Artist: Develops visual representations of the story, including composition, camera angles, and character actions.
  • Character Designer: Designs and illustrates unique and appealing characters for animations.
  • Background Artist: Creates detailed and visually captivating backgrounds for animated scenes.
  • Sound Designer: Enhances the animation with appropriate sound effects and music.
  • Voice Actor: Provides voices for characters, adding personality and dialogue to the animation.
  • Producer: Oversees the production process, manages budgets and schedules, and ensures project completion.
  • Marketing Specialist: Promotes the studio and its projects and builds brand awareness.
  • Project Manager: Coordinates and manages multiple animation projects, ensuring smooth workflow and timely delivery.
  • Accountant: Handles financial aspects, including budgeting, bookkeeping, and tax filings.
  • IT Support: Maintains and troubleshoots technical equipment and software used in the animation process.
  • Legal Advisor: Provides legal guidance and assists with contracts, copyright issues, and intellectual property protection.
  • Outsourced Services (e.g., freelance animators, sound studios, editing services): Consider utilizing external resources for specific projects or tasks when necessary.

For more, see, How and When to Hire a New Employee.

Points To Consider

Getting customers through the door.

In an animation studio business, customers are essential for success. Attracting customers can be challenging initially, especially when your studio is new and unfamiliar to people.

As time passes and your reputation grows, it becomes easier to attract customers, assuming they appreciate your services. Additionally, you’ll gain valuable marketing experience that will further aid in customer acquisition.

I recommend reading the following article to help you generate interest and bring customers through the door as a new business. It provides ideas and strategies that can assist you in effectively reaching your target audience and building a customer base for your animation studio.

See our article How To Get Customers Through the Door ; you’ll find a few ideas you can use.

Marketing Ideas

Promoting your animation studio business is a continuous effort that can lead to increased revenue. Effective marketing techniques play a key role in attracting customers and spreading awareness.

You don’t necessarily need to hire an expensive marketing agency. Instead, view marketing as a way to create awareness about your business and take advantage of opportunities whenever they arise.

Consider various marketing strategies that suit your budget and goals. This may include building an online presence through social media platforms and a professional website, networking with industry professionals, attending events or trade shows, creating engaging content, and leveraging word-of-mouth referrals.

By consistently investing in marketing and seizing opportunities to promote your animation studio, you can reach a wider audience, build brand recognition, and ultimately generate more business.

See our marketing section for articles that will provide ideas to bring awareness to your animation studio business.

It’s crucial to focus on your skill set and assess if you possess the necessary abilities to run an animation studio business. Recognizing your strengths and weaknesses helps you make informed decisions. If you lack a vital skill, you can acquire it through learning or hiring someone with that expertise.

List of Essential Skills for an Animation Studio Business Owner:

  • Animation Skills: Proficiency in various animation techniques, software, and tools.
  • Creativity: Ability to generate innovative and visually appealing concepts.
  • Project Management: Skills to plan, organize, and execute animation projects effectively.
  • Communication: Clear and effective communication with clients, team members, and stakeholders.
  • Business Acumen: Understanding of business principles, budgeting, and financial management.
  • Marketing and Networking: Skills to promote your studio, attract clients, and build professional connections.
  • Leadership: Ability to lead and motivate a team of animators and collaborators.
  • Problem-Solving: Aptitude to identify and resolve challenges that arise during production.
  • Time Management: Efficiently manage deadlines and prioritize tasks.
  • Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust to changing demands and embrace new technologies.

Remember, continuously developing and honing these skills is essential for success in running an animation studio business.

A List of Equipment You May Need for an animation studio Business:

  • Computers: High-performance desktop or laptop computers for animation work.
  • Animation Software: Professional animation software such as Autodesk Maya, Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or Blender.
  • Drawing Tablets: Digital drawing tablets for creating digital artwork and illustrations.
  • Graphics Tablets: Input devices that allow precise control and drawing on a computer screen.
  • Editing Software: Video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro for post-production work.
  • Render Farms: High-capacity computer systems for rendering complex animation sequences.
  • Scanners: Devices to convert traditional drawings or artwork into digital formats.
  • Printers: High-quality printers for printing storyboards, character designs, or promotional materials.
  • Sound Recording Equipment: Microphones, audio interfaces, and headphones for recording voice-overs or sound effects.
  • Lighting Equipment: Studio lighting setups for capturing reference images or filming live-action scenes.
  • Green Screens: Chroma key screens for shooting footage to be composited with animated elements.
  • Storage Devices: External hard drives or network-attached storage (NAS) for secure data storage and backup.
  • Reference Books and Materials: Art books, animation guides, and reference materials for inspiration and research.
  • Office Furniture: Desks, chairs, and storage units for a comfortable and organized workspace.
  • Drawing Supplies: Traditional art supplies like sketchbooks, pencils, pens, and markers for concept art and storyboarding.

The specific equipment needed may vary based on the size and scope of your animation studio and the type of projects you undertake. It’s important to consider the requirements of your workflow and budget when selecting and acquiring equipment for your animation studio business.

In this section, you will find valuable resources for your animation studio business.

These resources can enhance your understanding of the industry and provide helpful tips for improving your business.

They serve as valuable tools to stay updated, gain insights, and make informed decisions that contribute to the success of your animation studio.

Industry Trends and Statistics

Looking at industry trends and statistics for an animation studio business offers several benefits.

It provides valuable insights into market demands, customer preferences, and emerging opportunities. You can adapt your strategies, make informed decisions, and position your business for success in a dynamic industry by staying informed.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to animation.

Animation Studio Associations

Trade associations provide several advantages to animation studio businesses.

Associations help keep you updated on industry news and developments while offering valuable networking opportunities. Participating in association-organized events further enhances these benefits, allowing you to connect with industry peers and explore collaborative opportunities.

See the search results for animation associations.

Top Animation Studio Business

Analyzing established animation studio businesses can provide valuable insights. It can help you identify gaps or untapped opportunities in the industry that you can leverage for your own business.

It also allows you to recognize any areas in your business that may need improvement or have been overlooked.

See the latest search results for the top animation studio businesses.

The Future of the Animation Studio Industry

Researching the industry’s future benefits aspiring animation studio business owners. It helps you anticipate emerging trends, technological advancements, and changing customer demands.

By staying ahead of the curve, you can align your business strategies to capitalize on future opportunities and ensure long-term success.

See the search results for the future of the animation industry.

Researching industry prices when starting an animation studio business provides valuable insights. It helps you understand the pricing landscape, competitive rates, and market trends.

This knowledge enables you to set competitive prices, make informed financial decisions, and position your business for profitability and growth.

See the latest animation pricing.

Animation Studio Businesses for Sale

When considering buying an existing animation studio business, there are advantages and disadvantages to weigh.

Benefits of buying an established animation studio business:

  • Immediate Revenue: You start earning income from the day you take over.
  • Skip Startup Phase: You avoid the challenges of starting from scratch.
  • Proven Success: You know the business model is effective.
  • Financial Insights: You have access to existing revenue, profit, and expense information.
  • Customer Base: There is already an established customer base.
  • Reputation: The business has already built a reputation.

Disadvantages of buying an animation studio business:

  • Higher Cost: Purchasing an established business often comes with a higher price tag, including the value of its customer base.
  • Customer Retention: Changing the business’s operations may result in customer losses.
  • Reputation Inheritance: You acquire the business’s reputation, including any negative aspects.

Considering these factors will help you decide whether to buy an existing animation studio business or start from scratch.

See animation studio – businesses for sale to browse the latest listings.

Animation Studio Franchise Opportunities

Buying an animation studio franchise has advantages and disadvantages, making it worth exploring before starting a business from scratch.

Pros of buying a franchise:

  • Proven Business Model: Just follow the established plan the franchise’s corporate office provides.
  • Existing Reputation and Marketing: Benefit from the franchise’s established reputation and marketing efforts.
  • In-depth Knowledge: You gain comprehensive knowledge about the business before getting involved.
  • Corporate Support: Receive support and guidance from the franchise’s corporate office.

Cons of buying a franchise:

  • Costly Investment: Purchasing a franchise can be expensive, including initial fees and ongoing expenses.
  • Limited Freedom: Making significant changes requires approval from the corporate office.
  • Product and Service Restrictions: You can only offer approved products and services.
  • Operational Constraints: Your business must adhere to the terms outlined in the franchise agreement.
  • Ongoing Franchise Fees: You must pay regular fees to the franchise.

Carefully considering these factors will help you decide if buying an animation studio franchise is right for your business goals and circumstances.

See animation studio franchise opportunities to browse the latest listings.

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

The internet offers a wealth of information about the animation industry. Follow the provided links in the following sections to access valuable resources to aid you in your research, startup phase, and ongoing operations of your animation studio business.

These resources will equip you with insights, tips, and industry-specific knowledge to make informed decisions and enhance the success of your business.

A Day in the Life

A Day in the Life of an animation studio business owner provides valuable tips and insights from industry professionals. It offers an overview of what to expect, helping aspiring business owners gain a realistic understanding of the challenges and responsibilities involved in running an animation studio.

See the search results for a day in the life of animation studio business owners.

Animation Studio Business Owners Interviews

Interviews with business owners in the animation studio industry offer valuable information and insights.

Spending time on this section can provide different perspectives and valuable insights into the industry, helping you better understand what to expect. It offers a firsthand account of experiences and lessons learned by industry professionals.

See the search results for interviews of animation studio business owners.

Publications

Publications are an excellent resource for staying updated with the latest information about the animation business. They provide valuable insights, industry trends, and expert advice to help you stay informed and make informed decisions for your animation studio.

See the search results for publications related to an animation business.

Visiting animation studio forums provides an opportunity to participate in engaging discussions on hot topics.

Actively engaging in these forums allows you to connect and build relationships with fellow professionals in the animation industry, fostering valuable connections and knowledge sharing.

See the latest search results for the top animation forums.

Courses related to an animation studio business offer a valuable opportunity to learn and enhance your skillset while staying updated with industry trends.

These courses provide knowledge, techniques, and practical insights to help you develop your skills and stay current in the ever-evolving animation industry.

See the latest courses related to animation.

Animation Studio Blogs

Subscribing to animation studio blogs offers a valuable way to gather ideas and stay updated with the industry.

By subscribing to multiple blogs, you can curate a collection of valuable sources, allowing you to receive a steady stream of relevant information that you can use to enhance your animation studio business.

Look at the latest search results for animation blogs  to follow.

Books provide valuable information and insights for starting an animation studio business. They offer in-depth knowledge, practical tips, and expert advice that can help guide you on your entrepreneurial journey.

The latest books about starting an animation studio business are listed on Amazon.

Staying updated with the animation studio industry is possible through news sources. Setting up alerts enables you to receive timely notifications whenever the media cover new developments and information.

See what’s in the news related to an animation studio business?

Videos about the animation studio industry provide valuable tips and insights. Additionally, watching related videos recommended by YouTube can offer unexpected topics and perspectives that you may not have considered, expanding your knowledge and understanding of the industry.

See the links to YouTube Videos Below.

  • Videos related to starting an animation studio can be found here.

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Animation Studio Business Plan Template

Explore Options to Get a Business Plan.

Animation Studio  business plan template

Are you interested in starting your own animation studio  Business?

AI-Powered Business Plans starting from $10

Introduction

Global market size, target market, business model, competitive landscape, legal and regulatory requirements, financing options, marketing and sales strategies, operations and logistics, human resources & management, why write a business plan.

  • Business Plans can help to articulate and flesh out the business’s goals and objectives. This can be beneficial not only for the business owner, but also for potential investors or partners
  • Business Plans can serve as a roadmap for the business, helping to keep it on track and on target. This is especially important for businesses that are growing and evolving, as it can be easy to get sidetracked without a clear plan in place.
  • Business plans can be a valuable tool for communicating the business’s vision to employees, customers, and other key stakeholders.
  • Business plans are one of the most affordable and straightforward ways of ensuring your business is successful.
  • Business plans allow you to understand your competition better to critically analyze your unique business proposition and differentiate yourself from the market.
  • Business Plans allow you to better understand your customer. Conducting a customer analysis is essential to create better products and services and market more effectively.
  • Business Plans allow you to determine the financial needs of the business leading to a better understanding of how much capital is needed to start the business and how much fundraising is needed.
  • Business Plans allow you to put your business model in words and analyze it further to improve revenues or fill the holes in your strategy.
  • Business plans allow you to attract investors and partners into the business as they can read an explanation about the business.
  • Business plans allow you to position your brand by understanding your company’s role in the marketplace.
  • Business Plans allow you to uncover new opportunities by undergoing the process of brainstorming while drafting your business plan which allows you to see your business in a new light. This allows you to come up with new ideas for products/services, business and marketing strategies.
  • Business Plans allow you to access the growth and success of your business by comparing actual operational results versus the forecasts and assumptions in your business plan. This allows you to update your business plan to a business growth plan and ensure the long-term success and survival of your business.

Business Plan Content

  • Executive Summary
  • Company Overview
  • Industry Analysis
  • Consumer Analysis
  • Competitor Analysis & Advantages
  • Marketing Strategies & Plan
  • Plan of Action
  • Management Team

The financial forecast template is an extensive Microsoft Excel sheet with Sheets on Required Start-up Capital, Salary & Wage Plans, 5-year Income Statement, 5-year Cash-Flow Statement, 5-Year Balance Sheet, 5-Year Financial Highlights and other accounting statements that would cost in excess of £1000 if obtained by an accountant.

The financial forecast has been excluded from the business plan template. If you’d like to receive the financial forecast template for your start-up, please contact us at [email protected] . Our consultants will be happy to discuss your business plan and provide you with the financial forecast template to accompany your business plan.

Instructions for the Business Plan Template

To complete your perfect animation studio business plan, fill out the form below and download our animation studio business plan template. The template is a word document that can be edited to include information about your animation studio business. The document contains instructions to complete the business plan and will go over all sections of the plan. Instructions are given in the document in red font and some tips are also included in blue font. The free template includes all sections excluding the financial forecast. If you need any additional help with drafting your business plan from our business plan template, please set up a complimentary 30-minute consultation with one of our consultants.

Ongoing Business Planning

Want a bespoke business plan for your animation studio business, our expertise, animation studio business plan template faqs, what is a business plan for a/an animation studio business, how to customize the business plan template for a animation studio business, what financial information should be included in a animation studio business plan, are there industry-specific considerations in the animation studio business plan template, how to conduct market research for a animation studio business plan, what are the common challenges when creating a business plan for a animation studio business, how often should i update my animation studio business plan, can i use the business plan template for seeking funding for a animation studio business, what legal considerations are there in a animation studio business plan.

BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to start an animation business in 8 steps

  • Rachel Bistricer

How to start an animation business

If you're passionate about creating animations and managing a range of creative services, starting an animation business could be an exciting venture for you. This guide will walk you through the steps of initiating and operating a successful animation business, including the advantages and challenges involved in starting a business , how to go about creating a business website  to support your animation business and how to generate revenue in the animation industry.

What is an animation business?

An animation studio is a service-oriented business  that offers a variety of animation services to clients. Animation businesses typically provide services such as:

Animation production, including 2D and 3D animations

Storyboarding and scriptwriting for animations

Character design and animation

Motion graphics and visual effects

Video editing and post-production services

Why start an animation business?

The animation business is booming. Experts predict the animation industry will keep growing at a rate of 11% each year through 2025 , with the North American market already accounting around 40% of the global industry . 

The demand for animation related businesses is growing, the applications are expanding, and the profit possibilities are significant. So if you've got the skills and passion for animated storytelling, starting an animation business could be a good fit for you. 

Decide on your animation niche

Create a business plan

Select a business structure

Obtain business financing or capital

Create your animation portfolio to attract clients

Set up accounting and bookkeeping services

Source specific animation equipment

Register your animation studio

01. Decide on your animation niche

Before diving into starting your animation business, it’s important to define your distinctive identity, or unique value proposition (USP) . This involves identifying the type of animation you want to produce and establishing a unique identity that resonates with your target audience. By focusing on a particular animation niche, whether it be 2D animation, 3D animation, motion graphics, character animation or visual effects, you can position your animation business as an expert in a specialized area. Specializing in a niche allows you to hone your skills in a particular style or technique and differentiate your services from competitors Additionally, carving out a niche can help you target your marketing efforts more effectively, attract clients who seek your specialized services and foster a reputation within that particular segment of the animation industry.

02. Create a business plan

Develop a comprehensive business plan  that covers key aspects of your business planning such as your target market, executive summary, marketing strategy  and financial projections. This plan serves as a roadmap for your business and aids in conveying your vision to potential clients and investors when seeking funding. It should also include other important business information such as the type of business  you plan to start and your choice of a business name . 

Here’s an animation business plan template to get you started:

Animation business plan template

Executive Summary

Business Name: [Your Animation Studio's Name]

Business Structure: [Sole Proprietorship/Partnership/LLC/Corporation]

Location: [City, State]

Founding Date: [Month, Year]

Founders/Owners: [Names]

Mission Statement: [Concise statement of the animation studio's purpose]

Business Description

Overview: Briefly describe your animation studio, including its key services and expertise.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Clearly define what sets your studio apart from competitors.

Target Market: Identify your primary client demographic and market segment.

Services and Amenities

List and describe the animation services your studio will offer.

Include animation styles, specializations, and additional services.

Market Analysis

Industry Overview: Provide an overview of the animation industry, including trends and growth projections.

Competitor Analysis: Identify key competitors, analyze their strengths and weaknesses.

Target Audience: Define your target client profile and their preferences.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

Marketing Plan: Outline your strategies for promoting the animation studio, including online and offline channels.

Pricing Strategy: Detail your pricing structure for animation projects.

Sales Tactics: Describe how you will attract clients and secure animation projects.

Operational Plan

Location and Facilities: Describe the physical location and facilities of your animation studio.

Suppliers: List and describe key suppliers for animation tools and resources.

Staffing: Outline your staffing plan, including roles and responsibilities.

Financial Plan

Startup Costs: Detail initial investment requirements and startup expenses.

Revenue Projections: Provide realistic revenue projections for the first 3-5 years.

Operating Costs: Outline ongoing operating expenses, including software licenses, equipment maintenance, and staff salaries.

Funding Requirements: Specify any funding needed and potential sources (loans, investors).

Funding Proposal

Purpose of Funding: Clearly state how the funds will be utilized.

Amount Needed: Specify the amount of funding required.

Repayment Plan: Outline the proposed repayment plan for loans or investments.

Risk Analysis

Identify potential risks and challenges that may impact the success of your animation studio.

Develop strategies to mitigate and manage these risks.

Include any additional documents or information relevant to your business plan.

Examples: Animation portfolio, resumes of key team members, demo reels.

Summarize the key points of your business plan and highlight the potential success of your animation studio.

Conclude with a call to action or next steps.

Note: This template serves as a general guide. Adjust and expand sections based on your specific business model and goals.

03. Select a business structure

Choose an appropriate business entity  or structure for your animation studio, such as a sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , or corporation . Each structure has its own advantages and disadvantages, so select the one the aligns with your business goals.

Learn more: How to start an LLC

04. Obtain business financing or capital

Starting an animation business involves substantial initial costs related to equipment, software, and operational expenses. You’ll need to secure financing through methods like business loans, grants, or investments from stakeholders to launch and sustain your studio.

Costs you’ll need to consider when securing financing for your business include:

   Purchase or lease of animation software and equipment

   Fees for obtaining necessary licenses and permits for operating an animation studio

   Recruitment and training costs for animation staff

   Marketing and advertising campaigns to promote the animation studio

    Making a website  for showcasing your animation portfolio

   Connection and setup costs for internet and other utilities

   Initial inventory of digital assets, including stock animations, music, and sound effects

05. Create your animation portfolio to attract clients

Creating a portfolio  is an invaluable step when starting an animation business as it serves as a visual representation of your skills, creativity and expertise in the field. A well-crafted portfolio allows potential clients and employers to assess your capabilities, style and proficiency in animation.  By building a portfolio that highlights your strengths, showcases a diverse range of projects you can effectively differentiate yourself in this competitive industry and open doors towards new projects and partnerships.

Once you create your portfolio, you can focus on distributing it across your digital assets to reach the right audience. By strategically sharing your portfolio on platforms such as your business website, social media channels, online communities and professional networking platforms, you can ensure that your work is accessible to a wide audience of potential clients.

06. Set up accounting and bookkeeping systems

Establish robust accounting and bookkeeping systems from the start to track income, expenses and ensure financial viability. You may want to consider hiring a professional accountant or using accounting software to help you manage and report your finances. Keeping detailed records of all financial transactions can also be helpful in identifying areas for improvement and making informed decisions about the growth of your animation business.

07. Source specific animation equipment

Acquire the necessary equipment for your animation studio, ranging from high-quality computers and animation software to specialized tools for motion graphics and visual effects. Some more specific examples of this include:

   Powerful computers with graphic processing units (GPUs) for rendering

   Animation software suites for 2D and 3D animation production

   Drawing tablets for digital sketching and character design

   High-resolution monitors for detailed animation work

   Audio recording equipment for voiceovers and sound effects

   Video editing software for post-production work

06. Register your animation studio

Register your animation business in compliance with local regulations, obtain the required licenses and secure appropriate insurance coverage. This protects both your studio and clients in case of any legal or financial issues. Some of the steps involved in registering an animation studio include:

   Choosing a business name and checking availability

   Registering for a business license

   Managing corporate tax obligations, if applicable

   Obtaining permits for operating a physical location, if applicable

   Applying for insurance coverage, such as liability and professional indemnity insurance

   Complying with tax regulations and obtaining a tax identification number (TIN)

Learn more: How to register a business , How to get a business license

Tips for managing your animation business for profitability

Once you've successfully launched your animation studio, you'll need to grasp the ins and outs of running and managing it properly to make sure it is profitable. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve that goal.

Research for industry and market trends

Research your industry and gain a deep understanding of market trends, client expectation and emerging technologies. Stay updated on industry news and advancements to stay competitive.

Promote your animation studio

Develop a robust marketing strategy to promote your animation studio. Create a professional website that showcases your portfolio and services, and utilize online and offline channels for marketing. 

Build trust with clients and expand your network

Ensure a positive experience for clients from the initial inquiry to project completion. Build relationships within the animation community, attend industry events and collaborate with other animators or studios. Networking can lead to new opportunities and collaborations.

Learn more about how to create an animation portfolio .

Animation studios to inspire (all built on Wix)

Azar animation studio.

Animation studio offering full production service from earlier development (story, storyboard, character design, etc) to final 3D production. 

YY Animation and Arts

This animation studio focuses on 3D animation, 3d modeling and graphic design of posters and branding assets.

Benefits of starting an animation business

Operating an animation business allows you to be your own boss, set your own creative direction and make independent decisions. At the same time the demand for animation services is consistently high, particularly in entertainment, advertising and education. For business owners who enjoy creative collaboration and storytelling, an animation business can be rewarding on many levels. 

Challenges of running an animation business

Animation management requires diverse skills in areas such as project management, creative direction, and client communication. You’ll either need to become an expert fast in all of these areas, or invest in people who can do them. 

Coordinating  projects, managing client expectations, and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality work can be challenging. The use of project management software and tools can streamline processes and help you focus on creating amazing animations.

The animation industry is competitive, and standing out requires a unique artistic style, effective marketing, and a strong portfolio. It's also essential to network and build relationships with clients and industry professionals to keep you top of mind for upcoming project needs.

How profitable is an animation business?

With the rise of streaming services, there has been an increased demand for animated content, leading to a surge in the number of production companies and studios dedicated solely to creating animations. The profitability of an animation business depends on factors such as the quality of your work, client satisfaction, pricing strategies and operational efficiency. Animation businesses can achieve profitability by delivering exceptional animations, attracting a steady flow of clients, and maintaining a strong reputation within the industry.

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Animation Studio Business Plan

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How to Start an Animation Studio

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Make More Money as an Animator

Learning how to start an animation studio from scratch.

The animation industry is one that has a bright future ahead, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down any time soon. Creating animations is far more accessible today than it was in the past, just as queuing in cafes to access the internet is now history. 

As the animation industry evolves, the global demand for animated content shows steady growth, with some segments growing 2-3% every year . Awesome, right?

GIF via GIPHY

With this comes a stream of endless opportunities for anyone and everyone - such as learning how to animate or even how to start an animation studio.

Think of it this way. You were interested enough in animation to click on this article. You already possess the traits that make an extraordinary animator , but now what? 

What do you do with these interests and traits? Do you establish a freelance career in animation? Should you start an animation studio? Where do you even begin?

This blog post explains how to start an animation studio, from determining whether or not running an animation studio is a good fit for you, to taking the first steps towards creating your animation studio, to what you need in order to attract clients to your business. 

Surely, a large client base is one of the main goals of every business, and with a large client base comes profit.

Working as a Freelancer vs Becoming an Animation Studio Owner

becoming a freelance animator or animation studio owner allows you to be your own boss

Image by Jadakiss via Tenor

Before getting to the part on how to start an animation studio, let’s clear up the difference between an animation studio owner and a freelance animator. You don’t need to assign a title to yourself right away, as you can figure out what path you want to take down the line. 

These two careers have similar steps in the beginning but may end in different destinations. 

As a freelance animator, starting an animation studio doesn’t have to mean you hire a team right away, or even at all! Being a freelance animator comes with the flexibility and freedom of being your own boss. You’re in charge of the direction your animation business takes. 

On the other hand, you can start as a freelancer and eventually grow your business into an animation studio with a dedicated team. Owning a studio has its perks, such as allowing the flexibility for more free time, since you’ll have a team to help do the work.

To How to Start an Animation Studio With The Right Mindset

the correct mindset to starting an animation studio

Image by Kylie De Guia via Unsplash

Before you even put a business plan in place while learning how to start an animation studio, ask yourself if you have the right mindset or desire to lead your animation studio to success. Note that your mindset is key to everything. 

Microsoft, Amazon, even Promoshin, and all the top companies we hear of today would never have left their incubation stage before learning how to start an animation studio. That is if they didn't have one thing in common - a mindset for growth.

Having a g r owth mindset dedicated to perseverance and effort is essential for any animator wanting to start an animation studio.

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your animation studio, so don't expect it to be like magic. The right mindset requires that you be patient and see challenges along the way as an opportunity to learn how to start an animation studio.

Your eyes have to be set on making your dream animation studio come true no matter what! Yes, determination and focus are the keywords here.

There are countless resources on how to get into the right mindset and ensure your desire and vision for the future coincide. These include everything from animation books to podcasts about the animation industry and everything in between.

Here are five tips on how to start an animation studio by changing your mindset:

  • Change your negative self-talk, and be affirmative
  • Surround yourself with the right people. Yes, the mindset of those you dine with and share your ideas matters.
  • Practice gratitude
  • Try and experience new things. Don't be hard on change so you don't get outdated.
  • Adopt a healthy lifestyle

Set SMART Goals Before Discover How to Start an Animation Studio

a woman saying she's smart after setting smart goals for her animation studio

GIF by Obama via GIPHY

Starting an animation studio can be overwhelming. From all the paperwork and setting up the foundation of your animation studio - you must always remember to set SMART goals for yourself. These SMART goals that you set for your animation studio will keep you focused throughout your journey. To reach your goals, you need to set objectives.

Every objective you hit, such as “I want to acquire 3 clients this month”, eventually pushes you closer to greater goals like “I will have 30 clients by the end of the year”. And remember to congratulate yourself when you successfully hit your targets, it builds your self-confidence!

So, what are SMART goals anyway, and how are they different from your normal goals? First created in 1981 by George Doran, “S.M.A.R.T goals” is an acronym for a simple method of planning. Originally, Doran defined SMART goals as follows:

  • There must be a specific area for improvement. Be particular about what has to be done. Don't beat around the bush.
  • Make sure that indicators of progress can be quantified. Have smaller pictures that you can easily capture while gunning for the bigger one.
  • Tasks must be assigned to people. Practice division of labor, you can't do everything yourself. Ask for help when you need it.
  • Results should be achievable with the use of the proper resources.

Time-related

  • The time when results can be achieved must be specified. Set timeframes for your goals.

How to Start an Animation Studio as a Freelance Animator

a group of freelance animators discussing how they will start their own animation studio

GIF by RF Studio via Pexels

Animation Skills and Niche Selection

Now that you have the right mindset and SMART goals in place, you can work on your animation skills. There’s no such thing as a finished product in the world of animation. 

Successful animators , you read that right - successful animators - know there’s always room for improvement so they never stop honing their skills. If you want to keep your mind sharp , you start by constantly learning. 

Depending on your interests, learning can include everything from a new animation style to sharpening your business skills as an animator.

While the idea of learning all the animation styles may seem appealing, it is also important to pick your niche. Don't be a jack of all trades. Take the time to analyze what works best for your long-term goals - will you generalize or specialize in a field as an animator? There are key differences between Generalist and Specialist Animators . If you want to start an animation studio we recommend that you find your niche and position yourself as an expert in your field.

You’ll be able to align your goals and efforts to your chosen niche and develop your skills from there. 

Finding the right niche for you doesn’t have to take years. Here are 7 questions to ask yourself to find your animation niche as it will give you answers to how to find your target audience and what to do after you decide on your animation niche. 

Whatever your choice, building your animation skills takes time and dedication, so be patient and trust your process. You need to make sure you keep yourself current: Not just with the animation styles and trends, but also with techniques and software. 

Business and Communication Skills for Animators

Animators need to know many important skills, but your animation skills aren’t the only skills you need to work on. To start an animation studio, you will also need these essential business skills:  

Communication Skills

Words are essential, and how they are communicated matters. Having excellent communication skills is one of the most essential skills for any successful business.

Effective communication through verbal, written, and visual means is a must to understand your animation clients. Be sure to always improve your communication skills with your animation clients as well as your collaborators.

Negotiation Skills

Negotiating like a businessperson when learning how to animate, is something that is not usually taught. Understanding how to negotiate rates with animation clients in addition to setting your prices is important to make sure your studio is paid fairly.

This can be tough, but the only way to master it is through experience. However, always be courteous and considerate during negotiations.

Leadership Skills

Whether you hire other people to work for your animation studio or operate it entirely on your own, you will still need the ability to lead. Leadership is not about telling people what to do.

It is about motivating others—including yourself—to work together towards a common goal by listening and inspiring those around them. While it may feel good to be bossy, to be the one everyone listens to with nobody to refute your orders, that isn't leadership.

Let's cast our minds to the movie, Little, the bossy Jordan Sanders had to go back to being "little" to learn to stop acting the "boss", because honestly, being bossy comes with zero rewards.

Delegation Skills

Being able to delegate tasks efficiently is vital to the success when learning how to start an animation studio. Having the right people for the job will save you so much time and improve the quality of your work.

That’s not all; you can also focus on other things for the benefit of your business, and even pursue your personal interests! Always ask for help when you need it.

Time Management Skills

Good time management skills positively influence every aspect of your life. Ever heard of “work smarter, not harder”? If you want to work smart, you have to learn how to improve your time management skills as you figure out how to start an animation studio.

Time management can help create a sustainable schedule for your animation studio so that you can avoid burnout and increase productivity.

The First Steps To Starting Your Own Animation Studio

like this dog, it takes one step at a time to get to the top and start an animation studio

GIF by MichaelShoatesSr via Tenor

1. Registering Your Animation Studio And Banking Information

You wouldn't want to scare off your potential clients with what they see on your account details or business information, therefore, your first step would be to register your business as a legal entity, and set up a separate bank account for your animation studio.

Besides organizing your animation studio’s financial records, having a separate bank account with your business name attached shows your animation clients that you take pride in operating your animation studio with a sense of professionalism. 

This is also a great time to consider what your starting capital is. Knowing how to start an animation studio, even as a standalone freelancer, definitely requires a bit of capital; probably the purchase of necessary licensed software or paid training courses.

Don’t put off getting your animation business’ financial structure in place from the start as every minute spent organizing is an hour earned in the future. You don’t need to have a level of financial literacy to understand your business’ finances.

A basic calculation of profit and loss would point you in the necessary directions on how to handle your finances. But starting an animation business will help develop your skill of managing finances over time.

Once you have the paperwork out of the way, you can turn your attention to the fun part - making your demo reel, building a social media presence, and setting up your website.

Image via Flaticon

2. Making An Animation Demo Reel

As an animator, your demo reel is essential . Think of it as the cover letter to your CV. It needs to be short, impactful, and leave a lasting impression. This is your chance to showcase your abilities as an animator so take the time to plan out the ideal demo reel.

Don’t be tempted to add all your work. Give your clients just a taste they can't resist so they would come back asking for more. You need to consider what your target client wants to see and what you’d want them to see, so only include your best and most relevant up-to-date work.

Think of this as another project and opportunity to craft another creative masterpiece rather than a business formality. 

When crafting your magnum opus of a demo reel, look at your options and stitch your work together in a way that tells a story. Remember that this “story” shows your personality and what your animation business is all about. Be tactful and find the right balance of personal and professional.  Once your video is complete, ask for feedback. Send it to colleagues, friends, or a mentor to point out areas you can improve. Make them relate to your video like they are your clients so that their honest opinion can be conveyed.

Before uploading your demo reel online, the final touch is to add your contact information so prospective clients can get in touch with you.  I mean, that is the point of a demo reel right? To be contacted by prospective clients.

3. How to Start an Animation Studio With Social Media Presence

While a website is essential, keep in mind that social media marketing can be a cost-effective approach to market your animation studio, find potential clients and engage with your target audience.

Based on the animation niche you have chosen, you can set up a persona for your target audience and locate what social media outlets they use. Pick two or three platforms that will ensure you can create audience engagement.

Even though social media can have a casual element to it, you need to ensure that your social handles can easily be linked back to your animation studio business. Make sure people can see you and what you do.

Also, it’s important that it is an extension of your brand identity. No one can track down your animation studio if your social media handle is completely unrelated to the name of it.

You can make managing social media platforms even easier by using available social media management tools . You don’t need to spread yourself thin among your platforms. Instead, make it easier for you to focus on the ones that actually matter.

While it is important to drive social media engagement , you should also remember that social media is an important marketing tool for animators .

At the end of the day, a social media presence allows more people to discover your animation studio, proving its value for marketing and engagement. So, while you make it casual, don't get too relaxed that you aren't taken seriously.

4. Creating Your Animation Studio Website

To have a successful marketing strategy, you need somewhere to direct people so they can find your portfolio, contact details, and information about why you are the best choice over your competitors. These days, this ‘place’ is expected to be your website.

There are many benefits to having a website for your animation studio , but the main focus should be to showcase your service offerings, build credibility, and convert prospects into clients. The website you build will be a well-designed hub that connects your potential clients to your services.

Your website is usually your first real point of contact with potential clients and should leave a positive impression - recall what they say about first impressions? It lasts longer. Based on your skills, time, and budget, you can either build a website yourself or hire a website designer. 

It can be stressful handing over the responsibility of creating your website to a designer, so make sure you look around and ask the important questions before you hire a web designer for your animation studio .

Before developing your website, plan out your approach:

  • Make sure you have a logo and brand guide in place.
  • Know what content you want on your website for launch.
  • Have a portfolio and/or an impactful demo reel visible.
  • Make it easy for potential clients to contact you. Maybe even consider the benefits of having a live chat solution.
  • Determine the goal of your home page and/or animation landing pages.

Before finding out more on how to start an animation studio, you must also take into consideration your domain name and your hosting options. Running a website will have recurring costs due to your domain and the website hosting, so do research and make the best choice for your needs and budget. You don’t need the most powerful hosting solution - at least not right away. But rather you need to do the following:

  • Be aware of the up-time guarantees - your website is only useful if potential clients can access it.
  • Know what the load speed limitations are , if there are any - no one likes to wait for the loading icon!
  • Make sure you have access to support . If there is a problem, how fast will you be able to get help?
  • Check to see if your hosting service offers daily backups , and if so, for how long are these backups kept?

For animators at any level, learn the essentials of turning your passion into a profitable career.

5. How to Start an Animation Studio Using Data Tracking And SEO

Your website will never be 100% done. It will constantly need improvements and updates based on how your animation studio grows and how your users are engaging with your website.

To find out where you can improve, make use of the benefits of Google Analytics on your animation studio website. These analytics tools will give you data that can help you improve your website Search Engine Optimization (SEO). 

Understanding how to improve your Google ranking as an animator will help your potential clients find you before they even get to see your competitors. That last part surely sounds cool.

There are many ways to rank higher, but a good place to start is by doing keyword research and scoping out the competition to see how your competitors optimize their pages for SEO. For optimizing technical components of your website such as navigation, page speed, language setup, and website responsiveness, you might want to consider the assistance of a web developer or designer. 

Although these may be the first steps towards starting your animation studio, some things such as Data Tracking, SEO, updating your demo reel, website, and social media presence are a few things you have to do regularly to stay ahead of your competition and attract new clients.

You wouldn't want to go stale in the animation industry.

Launching Your Animation Studio

animators launching the start of their animation studio

GIF by Scott Graham via Unsplash

Social Proof For Animators

Social proofing shows that your company has a history of satisfied clients from before.

You can reach out to companies within your niche and offer your services in exchange for a testimonial if you’re just starting to build your social proof.

Asking clients for testimonials to build social proof may seem daunting. But take pride in your work and practice how to ask your clients for powerful testimonials , especially when you know you've earned it.

There are even tools to make this process less intimidating like TypeForm or Google Forms . Remember that this is an investment in the future success of your animation studio. 

Marketing Your Startup Animation Studio

We’ve covered why social proof is important when learning how to start an animation studio, but your digital marketing strategy shouldn’t end there. In this day and age, marketing is a huge umbrella for many different methods and avenues to explore. 

Knowing where to start and design your digital marketing strategy may be overwhelming. Thankfully, there are programs out there that can help you dive more into marketing your animation studio. A good option to learn and kickstart your journey of marketing your new animation studio would be by reading our free Animators Marketing Handbook . From here, you’ll get a comprehensive view of what we’re about to discuss for the next few sections.

an animator persuading a lead to turn into a client for their animation studio

GIF by LiamIsMailBackwards via GIPHY

How to Start an Animation Studio Today

This may have seemed like all there is to know but this blog only covered a fraction of how to start an animation studio.

The basics of developing a growth mindset, setting SMART goals, choosing your animation niche , and improving your communication skills are only the beginning of what you need to do and prepare yourself as an animation studio owner and professional. You wouldn't want to start what you can't finish - only once you find yourself ready should you set up the foundation of your animation studio by registering it as a business entity and setting up a separate bank account to manage your animation studio’s finances .

But what is an animation studio without animated videos? This is why you need to focus on the animation production process of your studio by assembling the right team of professionals to create quality animated videos.

animation studio business plan sample

These videos come in various types like advertisements, explainer videos, and more! There are so many more intricacies in the business of animation and in learning how to start an animation studio.

These range from details like how to set up an efficient animation workstation, offering video promotion campaigns , writing effective project proposals , and all the complexities of how much starting an animation studio may cost.

Now that you have read the basics of how to start an animation studio, it’s time for you to take the first step and make your way to success! 

To learn more about how to start an animation studio, you can take our FREE TRAINING program and start your path to success in the animation industry today!

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Animation Business Plan Template & Guidebook

How to write a animation business plan in 7 steps:, 1. describe the purpose of your animation business., 2. products & services offered by your animation business., 3. build a creative marketing stratgey., target market, customer base , product or service description, competitive analysis, marketing channels, form an llc in your state, 4. write your operational plan., what equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a animation business, 5. management & organization of your animation business., 6. animation business startup expenses & captial needed., 7. financial plan & projections, frequently asked questions about animation business plans:, why do you need a business plan for a animation business, who should you ask for help with your animation business plan, can you write a animation business plan yourself, related business plans, home inventory business plan template & guidebook, home inspection business plan template & guidebook, home decor business plan template & guidebook, health and wellness business plan template & guidebook, hauling business plan template & guidebook, hardware business plan template & guidebook, handyman business plan template & guidebook, hair extension business plan template & guidebook, handbag business plan template & guidebook.

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Examples

Animation Proposal

Proposal maker.

animation studio business plan sample

You can land animation projects at celebrations, weddings, and other events. In addition, animated videos are also a go-to digital marketing strategy for different companies. That said, you have a lot of business opportunities, and at the same time, competitors. Make yourself stand out amongst them and back your talent up with an impressive animation proposal.

10+ Animation Proposal Examples

1. animation studio proposal topsheet.

Animation Studio proposal Topsheet

Size: 44 KB

2. Stop Motion Animation Proposal

Stop Motion Animation Proposals

Size: 43 KB

3. Multi-Media Animation Request Proposal

Multi-Media Animation Request proposal

Size: 200 KB

4. Animation Studies Annual Proposal Outline

Animation Studies Annual proposal outline

Size: 69 KB

5. Animation Video Proposal

Animation Video proposal

6. Infographic Animation and Production Proposal

Infographic Animation and Production Proposal

Size: 41 KB

7. Printable Animation Proposal

Printable Animation proposal

Size: 557 KB

8. Multimedia Animation Outsourcing Proposal

Multimedia Animation Outsourcing proposal

Size: 248 KB

9. Animation Services Proposal

Animation services proposal

Size: 374 KB

10. Animation Tutorial Request for Proposal

Animation Tutorial Request for proposal

Size: 138 KB

11. Computer Animation Final Project Proposal

Computer Animation Final Project proposal

What Is an Animation Proposal?

An animation proposal is a business document that motion graphics designers devise to negotiate and offer their services to prospective clients. This form is a lengthy and complex document that mainly aims to persuade business prospects to sign an agreement or a business contract . In addition, it also helps the designer to get more projects. 

How to Devise a Striking Animation Proposal

When you propose something, you need to present yourself and highlight your accomplishments. Your target is to make your clients think that you are the best choice. Aside from that, you should be able to secure them that you can satisfy their demands. To do that, you should follow a careful process. 

1. Compile a Project Portfolio

When you propose something, especially if it concerns art, it is advisable to include a project portfolio . This segment will help showcase your past works. By doing this, your business prospects will know the style and approach you usually take in generating your multimedia project. Don’t forget to add necessary details, such as your business email address and contact number. 

2. Write Your Cover Letter

The process of composing your proposal cover letter is somehow similar to how you begin your animation videos. You think of a way to pique the audiences’ engagement to interest them to see and listen to what you have to say. This one-page document is a determining factor in the success of the entirety of your proposal letter. In this business venture, you should utilize your creativity with motion graphics as well as in words. 

3. Clarify the Scope of Your Services

To avoid complications in the future, you should detail what services you include in your package. Aside from designing an animated video, what else can you offer? Discussing this information beforehand can eliminate the possibilities of the prospects demanding you to do something outside of your specialties. In a way, this part of your proposal can protect you.

4. Devise a Timeline and a Budget Plan

The next step you should undergo is to construct a project timeline for the project you are proposing. This framework will detail the order of the activities that you plan to implement. Following this should be your budget plan . In constructing this document, ensure to use a budget sheet. Select a template that is easy to understand and follow through. Money is a crucial matter in business. Make sure to provide all the essential details. 

What are the various types of animation?

In the art industry, creative people incorporate different styles and techniques in an area of specialty. This rule also applies to the art of animation. You can categorize these approaches into two, traditional animation and computer animation. In the former method, people employ celluloid animation and stop motion animation. In contrast, as the times progressed to modern technology, people utilize computers to create 2D, 3D, and motion graphics animation.

What is an animation studio?

An animation studio is a company or a corporation that generates and produces animated media. They employ people who have a broad knowledge of fundamental principles of animation in motion design . This organization also holds the copyright statement to their characters, stories, and even merchandise. Some examples of famous animation studios are Studio Ghibli, Cartoon Network Studios, and DreamWorks animation.

Why do you need to conduct audience analysis in creating an animation proposal?

Before starting to animate your motion picture, you should first conduct an audience analysis . Doing this would let you determine your target market. Also, it would guide you in the process of brainstorming themes and styles to incorporate into your animation. If your target audience is kids below 18, then you might want to keep it cute and wholesome. In contrast, if your market is the adults, then you can incorporate darker and mature themes. If it’s for a specific event, then you could tailor your proposal letter for that particular situation.

Animation has a considerable impact on both traditional and digital media. It’s an essential part of celebrations, and it has earned different organizations a wider audience. The reason for this is that this type of media project is appealing to kids and adults alike. Offer outstanding services and secure the success of your business by composing a persuasive animation proposal. 

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Compose a proposal for a school field trip to a science museum.

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Hey, I'm Jon Draper. I'm a long time animator and animation studio founder. Making this course meant facing up to a wave of imposter syndrome we all have at times. But, I guess, as I've worked as a freelance animator and in a permanent studio role for years. Before risking job security, quiting, moving to live by the sea with my family and starting my own animation studio back in 2013 (*that's still thriving today). I guess technically, I've got some worth while experience and tips to help you do the same.   In the course I've tried to share a heap of industry experience & honest tips as an animator and studio founder to guide you from initial studio idea through to a complete viable animation studio business plan. The course also touches on marketing, sales (pitching, quoting) and ideas to help your own creative studio have the best chance of success.

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What's included in the course?

7 Modules (43 videos) 2+ hours of course content, filmed at our studio to go through at your own pace.

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Call for help! Any questions about your studio plans or problems. I'm happy to hop on zoom.

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Start An Animation Studio Course

• What to expect in the animation studio startup course? • Time to download your animation studio business plan • Is now the right time to start an animation studio? (... yes) • How to join the Pro community

• Quick module intro • Why start an animation studio • Develop and define your niche

• Quick module intro • Perfecting the name for your studio • Get the right domain • Studio logo design • Value of a studio ethos

• Quick module intro • Living costs • Studio Setup costs (intro) • Your Studio banking • Registering • Web host / CMS & Design • Essential studio tech • Studio space / Remote Working

• Quick module intro • Identify production tasks • Production time • Production Costs • How much to charge clients • Volume of production • What finances do you need to start? • Is your animation studio plan viable?

• Quick module intro • Website header text, keywords & CTAs • Keyword research • 'Magic' Keyword Tools • SEO friendly portfolio • Untapped marketing opportunities 01 • Untapped Marketing opportunities 02 • Fb - Studio Marketing Funnel • Fb - Campaign Setup

• Professional Quotes & Proposals • Walkthrough of a £70k tender doc (ITT) • Upsell: Voiceovers (in-house & professional)

• Day to day project management • Dealing with late payment • Animator & studio imposter syndrome

Bonus Content

Ultimate animation studio startup checklist PDF

Enquiry response email templates (that convert)

Ballpark budget conversation prompts

Contract templates

Studio review request PDF template

6-months support • Any studio startup questions?

Curriculum - Studio space vs remote working

Plan, start & grow your animation studio

Testimonials.

The Start A Studio course is a fantastic solution for anyone looking to set up an animation studio. Whether you're just getting started or already established, the course has all you need to set yourself up for the future and thrive. The course goes above and beyond, with its ever-updating lessons, online community and useful resources- it's the perfect match of business strategy and personal attention. I would recommend the course to anyone looking to run their own animation studio. Liam GILBEY - Founder 'CUT THE MUSTARD' Animation Studio NORWICH, UNITED KINGDOM

Animation Studio Business Plan Startup

I've been running a video production company for the last 5 years but I always wanted to improve things, so I bought this course. I was surprised to see the value inside it given by Jon. It's like you are getting years of experience in just a few hours! The course is very useful for whoever wants to start their explainer video studios. It has enough resources and advice to run the studios too! I'd highly recommend it! ALEX GREEN - SENIOR PRODUCER, 'DIGITAL GRAVY' ANIMATION STUDIO, UTAH, UNITED STATES

Animation Studio Business Plan Startup

I’ve been running a video production company for the last 5 years but always wanted to improve things so I decided to buy the animation studio masterclass course. I was surprised to see the value Jon shares throughout. I’d struggle to give this much value at this price. It's like you are getting years of experience in just a few hours! The course is very useful for whoever wants to start their own animation studio. It has enough resources and advice to run the studios too! I'd highly recommend it! Vikas Tiwari - What a Story Animation Studio - India

Animation Studio Business Plan Startup

7 Modules (43 videos) 2+ hours of course content, filmed at our studio. Work through at your own pace.

Networking Facebook Group to chat & network

Business Plan Animation studio business plan template to tailor to your aims during the course.

Call for help! Any questions about your studio plans or problems. I'm happy to hop on zoom

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Who is the course for? To make the most of the course, we'd recommend it for animators just graduating or with a few years of experience working in the industry. Either in a full-time role or as a freelancer. The content would also help you build a good freelance career.

What animation style is this for? Any and all styles are fine. Stop motion, traditional & digital 2D, 3D etc. It's much more focused on the business side than a specific production skillset.

Will my studio be a success? The course is designed to help with building a long lasting creative business. It is not a get rich quick scheme. Like any new business, success will take lots of work but should be alot of fun. We want everyone to succeed and build studios that enable you (and your staff) to achieve a good work-life balance, superb reputation and earn a good living.

Does location matter? Even though we run a UK studio ourselves, the course is designed, so it will help you where ever you are in the world. (*60% of our own animation studio clients are in the US). We'll refer to the UK, US and India in the course to help keep it global yet concise.

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Animation Studio Business Plan

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Animation Studio Bundle

  • Description

Executive Summary

Products & services, market analysis, marketing plan.

  • Management Plan
  • Financial Plan

The animation industry is growing rapidly, and there is an increasing demand for high-quality animation content. Despite this, many businesses struggle to find animation studios that can provide them with customized solutions that meet their unique needs. Many animation studios choose to offer generic animation services, which fail to cater to the specific demands of their clients.

Animatics Inc. seeks to fill this identified gap by providing high-quality, customized animation solutions to clients across various industries. We aim to become the go-to animation studio for businesses that seek to create visually stunning and engaging animation content that meets their specific requirements.

Target Market

Our target market includes clients from various industries such as advertising, gaming, film, television, and education. We aim to attract clients who seek high-quality and visually appealing animation to enhance their brand image, engage their audience, and communicate complex ideas in a simplified and entertaining manner.

We will focus on building long-term relationships with our clients by providing customized animation solutions that meet their specific needs and requirements. Our team of expert animators, designers, and producers will work closely with each client to understand their vision and bring it to life through animation.

Additionally, we will target clients who are looking for cutting-edge animation technology and tools to stay ahead of the competition. Our commitment to incorporating the latest advancements in the industry positions us as a preferred choice for clients who seek innovation and excellence in animation.

Competition

Financial summary.

Our financial plan for Animatics Inc. is designed to ensure profitability from the outset while also investing in growth and innovation. Key highlights of the plan include:

  • A projected startup cost of $800,000 to cover expenses such as studio space, equipment purchase and lease, payroll, and marketing and advertising.
  • A projected revenue of $2 million in the first year of operation, with an estimated annual growth rate of 20% for the next five years.
  • A projected net profit margin of 25% by year three, increasing to 30% by year five.
  • The use of a lean business model, avoiding unnecessary expenses and focusing on growth opportunities.
  • A plan to seek funding through various sources, including venture capital firms, angel investors, and crowdfunding platforms.
  • A projected return on investment (ROI) of 120% within the first five years of operation.

With a sound financial plan in place, Animatics Inc. is poised to become a profitable and sustainable business in the competitive animation industry.

Funding Requirements

Our startup costs for Animatics Inc. are projected to be $800,000, with the following expenses to be covered:

  • Studio space
  • Equipment purchase and lease
  • Marketing and advertising

As we seek to establish ourselves as a top-tier animation studio, we plan to secure funding through various sources, such as venture capital firms, angel investors, and crowdfunding platforms. With a projected return on investment of 120% within the first five years of operation, we are confident that we can deliver value to our investors while establishing our presence in a highly competitive industry.

Milestones and Traction

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Problem Worth Solving

Our solution, validation of problem and solution, product overview, roadmap - products & services.

Steps Taken So Far Steps Planned
Conducted market research to identify demand for animation services Secure funding through venture capital firms, angel investors, and crowdfunding platforms
Developed a business plan outlining our vision, goals, and financial projections Acquire studio space and equipment needed for animation production
Established a strong network of industry players and potential clients Hire a team of talented animators for concept development, storyboarding, character design, animation production, and post-production services
Created a branding strategy to build brand recognition and establish Animatics Inc. as a leading animation studio in the US Develop customized animation solutions to cater to the unique needs of each client
Constantly adapt to new trends and technological advancements in the industry to remain competitive and continue to provide innovative solutions to our clients

Market Segmentation

Market Segmentation is the process of dividing a market into groups of customers with similar needs or purchasing behaviors. For the Animation Studio business plan, the potential groups of customers can be categorized based on specific characteristics as shown in the table below:

Segment Characteristic Description
Kids Age Children between 3-12 years old
Teens Age Adolescents between 13-19 years old
Adults Age Individuals above 20 years old
Parents Family Status Parents who are looking for quality entertainment for their children
Businesses Type of Organization Corporate companies looking for explainer videos or training videos

Each segment has unique characteristics and needs that the Animation Studio can cater to in order to develop targeted marketing strategies and products that meet their demands.

Target Market Segment Strategy

Our ideal customer is a production company, advertising agency, or brand looking to create animated content for their campaigns or products. These customers are seeking high-quality animation that stands out among the competition, while also staying within their budget. They understand the value of storytelling and the impact of animation on their audience.

We will also target individual creators, such as independent animators, writers, and directors who require animation services for their passion projects. These customers are often seeking a collaborative environment where their creative vision can be fully realized.

Our target market segment strategy involves building relationships with key decision-makers in these industries through networking and outreach campaigns. We will showcase our portfolio of work and emphasize our ability to bring their ideas to life through animation.

Key customers

Our ideal customer archetype is the tech-savvy young adult who is passionate about animation and gaming. They are between the ages of 18-35, primarily located in urban areas, and have a disposable income to spend on entertainment. They are likely to be early adopters of new technology and enjoy attending conventions and events related to animation and gaming. Our goal is to appeal to this demographic, creating a loyal customer base who will be our main advocates and help spread word of mouth about our business.

Future Markets

In order to understand the competitive landscape, we have compiled a table of potential competitors in the animation studio industry:

Company Name Specialty Market Position
Pixar Animation Studios Feature-length animated films Market leader
DreamWorks Animation Feature-length animated films Close competitor
Blue Sky Studios Feature-length animated films Niche market
Cartoon Network Studios Animated TV series Niche market
Nickelodeon Animation Studios Animated TV series Niche market
Studio Ghibli Feature-length animated films International market leader

It is clear that the animation industry is highly competitive, with established market leaders and niche players. Our studio will need to differentiate itself through a unique and compelling value proposition in order to succeed in this crowded market.

Marketing and Sales Plan

Our marketing strategy at Animation Studio is aimed at creating awareness about our animation services, reaching potential customers and building a loyal customer base. Our strategy involves a balanced mix of online and offline advertising channels to reach our target audience.

Our advertising channels include social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, Google ads, email marketing, trade shows and events, search engine optimization, sponsorships and product placements.

We have allocated an initial budget of $50,000 for our marketing and advertising efforts. This budget will be distributed across our advertising channels based on their effectiveness and performance.

Our goal is to reach our target audience of animation enthusiasts, gaming companies and businesses that require animation services. Our advertising efforts aim to increase brand awareness, generate leads and facilitate customer acquisition.

Marketing and Advertising Budget
Advertising Channels Budget
Social media advertising $15,000
Google ads $5,000
Email marketing $5,000
Trade shows & events $10,000
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) $5,000
Sponsorships & Product placements $10,000

We will track the effectiveness of our advertising efforts through key performance indicators such as website traffic, social media engagement, leads generated and customer acquisition. Based on our analysis of these metrics, we will tweak our marketing strategy to ensure maximum performance and ROI.

Location and Facilities

Equipment and tools.

As an animation studio, there are specific equipment and tools required to produce high-quality animated content. The following is an outline of the essential equipment and tools and their associated cost, whether for purchasing or renting.

Equipment/Tool Cost (USD) Purchase or Rent
High-end Computer (with at least 16GB RAM and NVIDIA Graphics Card) 2000-3000 Purchase
Drawing Tablet 500-1000 Purchase
Animation Software (e.g. Adobe Animate) 25-80/month Rent
Render Farm (Hardware to speed up rendering process) 10,000-20,000 Rent
Video Editing Software (e.g. Adobe Premiere Pro) 25-80/month Rent
High-quality Microphones and Headphones 500-1000 Purchase
Sound Editing Software (e.g. Adobe Audition) 25-80/month Rent
Digital Storage (External Hard drives or Cloud Storage) 500-1000 Purchase

It is essential to maintain up-to-date equipment and tools to produce top-quality animation content, and as such, it is advisable to consider the cost of upgrading equipment and tools as part of the company's budget.

Management and Organization

Organizational structure.

Our Animation Studio will operate under a hierarchical organizational structure. An overview of the structure is presented below:

Position Responsibilities
CEO Oversees all aspects of the business, including strategy, finance, and operations.
Production Manager Responsible for ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Art Director Oversees the design and creative aspects of projects.
Storyboard Artists Create visual representations of the script and storyboard.
Animators Create animations and visual effects according to the storyboard.
Marketing and Sales Responsible for promoting and selling our services.

Communication within the organization will take place through regular meetings, email, and internal messaging platforms.

Management Team

At ABC Animation Studio, we believe that having a capable management team is essential for the success of the company. Below is a table of potential candidates we anticipate taking on high-level management roles within our company:

Name Position Experience
John Smith Chief Executive Officer 15 years in animation industry
Jane Doe Chief Operating Officer 10 years in business management
Mike Johnson Chief Financial Officer 7 years in finance and accounting
Sarah Lee Head of Production 12 years in animation production

These candidates have extensive experience and are highly qualified to lead our team to success.

Management Team Gaps

As we presently constitute our management team for the Animation Studio, we have identified that there are some positions or areas of expertise where we do not have any suitable candidates ready to fill those roles. Some of the management team gaps include:

  • Chief Financial Officer - We do not have any candidates with the necessary financial acumen to oversee the financial management of the studio and make informed financial decisions.
  • Marketing Manager - While we have a pool of creative professionals, we do not have anyone with extensive marketing experience to help bring our projects to market successfully.
  • Human Resource Manager - We do not currently have a candidate with the skills and experience needed to manage and motivate our team effectively.

We hope to address these gaps by actively searching for candidates with the necessary expertise and experience to fill these critical roles within the management team. Investing in qualified talent will provide us with the necessary support to achieve our company goals and vision.

Personnel Plan

Running an animation studio requires a team of skilled professionals who can bring life to the characters and storylines. As the company grows, we plan to expand our team with the following positions:

Position Responsibilities
Animator Create animated characters and scenes
Storyboard Artist Plan and visualize the storyline and characters
Scriptwriter Write the dialogues, characters, and overall story
Voice-over Artist Provide voice to the characters
Sound Designer Add appropriate sound effects and music
Producer Manage the production process
Marketing Manager Promote the studio and its productions

At the initial stage, we plan to hire a team of five people starting with an animator, storyboard artist, scriptwriter, voice-over artist, and sound designer.

Company history and ownership

Animatics Inc. is a startup animation studio founded by a team of highly experienced and passionate animators and business consultants. The idea of starting the company was born from a desire to meet the increasing demand for digital content across various industries, and to provide customized animation solutions that align with the unique needs and goals of clients.

The founders of Animatics Inc. have a combined experience of over 30 years in the animation industry, having worked on various projects for top-tier clients in the US and other parts of the world. They bring a wealth of knowledge, skills, and expertise to the company, which will be leveraged in achieving our business goals.

The company is privately owned, with equal equity distribution among the founders. We have also established a Board of Directors and Advisory Board, consisting of industry experts, to provide guidance and support in the management and growth of the company.

As part of our management and organization plan, we have developed a detailed roadmap table of specific goals and objectives we plan to achieve in order to successfully steer our business:

Objective Timeline Responsible Party
Secure Funding Q1 2023 CEO, CFO
Establish Studio Space Q2 2023 COO
Recruit and Train Staff Q3 2023 HR Manager, Various
Create Business Partnerships Q4 2023 Biz Dev Manager
Launch First Client Project Q1 2024 Project Manager
Expand Client Base Q2 2024 - Q1 2025 Biz Dev Manager, Sales Team
Invest in New Technology Q3 2025 CTO
Research and Develop Original Content Q4 2025 - Q1 2026 Creative Director, Content Team

Key Metrics

In order to gauge the overall performance and health of our animation studio business, we will be monitoring the following key performance indicators (KPIs):

  • Revenue and profit margins
  • Client retention rate
  • Number of completed projects and their respective budgets
  • Employee productivity and job satisfaction
  • Engagement rates on social media platforms
  • Customer satisfaction levels through surveys and feedback

By consistently tracking and analyzing these metrics, we will be able to make data-driven decisions that will help us optimize our operations and improve the overall success of our animation studio.

Financial Plan and Metrics

Sales forecast.

Based on market research and analysis, we have projected our sales for the first three years of operation as follows:

First Year Second Year Third Year
Revenue $500,000 $800,000 $1,200,000

We anticipate that our revenue will grow steadily as we establish ourselves in the industry, build our client base, and expand our services.

Starting and operating an animation studio comes with various costs that need to be considered. These expenses can be divided into startup costs and operational expenses.

Startup Costs

Startup costs refer to the expenses incurred before the studio begins operations. This includes:

Expense Cost
Legal and registration fees $2,000
Equipment and supplies $15,000
Rent deposit $5,000
Marketing and advertising $3,000

Operational Expenses

Operational expenses refer to the ongoing costs of running the animation studio. This includes:

Expense Monthly Cost
Rent $2,500
Salaried Employees $20,000
Software and equipment maintenance $1,500
Utilities (electricity, internet, phone) $1,000
Insurance $750
Other expenses (office supplies, subscriptions, etc.) $1,000

It is important to accurately estimate these expenses and plan accordingly to sustain and grow the animation studio business.

Projected Profit and Loss

Year Revenue Cost of Goods Sold Gross Margin Gross Margin Percentage Expenses Profit Profit Percentage
Year 1 $500,000 $250,000 $250,000 50% $350,000 -$100,000 -20%
Year 2 $750,000 $375,000 $375,000 50% $450,000 -$75,000 -10%
Year 3 $1,000,000 $500,000 $500,000 50% $550,000 -$50,000 -5%

Projected Cash Flow

Below is a projected cash flow statement for Animatics Inc. for the first three years of operation:

Year Inflow Outflow Net Cash Flow Cumulative Net Cash Flow
Year 1 $600,000 $480,000 $120,000 $120,000
Year 2 $1,200,000 $900,000 $300,000 $420,000
Year 3 $1,800,000 $1,440,000 $360,000 $780,000

Based on these projections, we anticipate a positive cash flow throughout the first three years of operation, with a cumulative net cash flow of $780,000 at the end of year three.

Projected Balance Sheet

The Animation Studio's financial plan includes projected balance sheet statements for the next three years. Based on our financial projections and assumptions, we expect the following balances for our assets, liabilities, and equity.

Assets Year 1 Year 2 Year 3
Cash $50,000 $70,000 $100,000
Accounts Receivable $20,000 $30,000 $40,000
Equipment & Furniture $100,000 $130,000 $150,000
Total Assets $170,000 $230,000 $290,000
Liabilities & Equity Year 1 Year 2 Year 3
Accounts Payable $5,000 $7,000 $10,000
Loan Payable $50,000 $30,000 $10,000
Shareholder Equity $115,000 $193,000 $270,000
Total Liabilities & Equity $170,000 $230,000 $290,000

Note: The above projected balance sheet statements are based on our financial assumptions and estimates, and are subject to change based on actual business performance and other external factors.

Our Animation Studio business plan outlines our plan for hiring and compensating employees, as well as how they will fit into our business operations.

We intend to hire a team of talented and experienced animators, writers, and producers who are passionate about creating quality content. Our compensation package will be competitive and include benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development. We will also offer performance incentives to encourage and reward exceptional work.

Our employees will play a crucial role in our business operations, working collaboratively to create animated content for various platforms. Each team member will have clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and we will foster a culture of open communication and creativity. We will also invest in training and development programs to help our employees improve their skills and stay current with industry trends.

Use of Funds

Exit strategy.

Our long-term goal is to grow our animation studio into a thriving, sustainable business. However, when the time comes, we have several exit options available:

  • Selling the business to a larger company in the industry
  • Merging with another animation studio
  • Transferring ownership to a family member or trusted employee

Ultimately, the decision will depend on the state of the business and the preferences of the owners at that time.

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Where to Work: Top 100 Studios for Animation Professionals

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Top 100 Studios for Animation Professionals
StudioLocation
343 IndustriesWashington, United States
A-1 PicturesTokyo, Japan
Aardman AnimationsBristol, England
Animal LogicNew South Wales, Australia
Anzovin StudioMassachusetts, United States
Bardel EntertainmentVancouver, Canada
Bento Box EntertainmentCalifornia, United States
Bethesda Game StudiosMaryland, United States
BioWareEdmonton, Canada
Blizzard EntertainmentCalifornia, United States
Blue Sky StudiosConnecticut, United States
Bohemia InteractivePrague, Czech Republic
BungieWashington, United States
Cartoon SaloonKilkenny, Ireland
Cartoon Network StudiosCalifornia, United States
CD Projekt REDWarsaw, Poland
CinesiteMontreal, Canada
Crystal Dynamics California, United States
CrytekFrankfurt, Germany
Daybreak Game CompanyCalifornia, United States
Digital DomainCalifornia, United States
Disney Television AnimationCalifornia, United States
DisneyToon Studios California, United States
Double FineCalifornia, United States
Double NegativeLondon, England
DreamWorks Animation SKGCalifornia, United States
EA DICEStockholm, Sweden
Electronic ArtsCalifornia, United States
Element X CreativeTexas, United States
Encore Hollywood California, United States
Epic GamesNorth Carolina, United States
Film Roman California, United States
Firaxis GamesMaryland, United States
Floyd County ProductionGeorgia, United States
FramestoreLondon, England
From SoftwareTokyo Software
Fuzzy Door Productions California, United States
Gearbox Software Texas, United States
Hi-Rez StudiosGeorgia, United States
Hybride TechnologiesMontreal, Canada
Illumination Mac GuffParis, France
Image EngineVancouver, Canada
Industrial Light and MagicCalifornia, United States
Infinity WardCalifornia, United States
Insomniac Games California, United States
KixeyeCalifornia, United States
LaikaOregon, United States
Legend 3DCalifornia, United States
Lucasfilm Animation California, United States
Luma PicturesCalifornia, United States
Marvel AnimationCalifornia, United States
Method StudiosCalifornia, United States
MojangStockholm, Sweden
Moonbot StudiosLouisiana, United States
MPCLondon, England
Naughty DogCalifornia, United States
NetherRealm StudiosIllinois, United States
Nickelodeon Animation StudiosCalifornia, United States
Nintendo Entertainment Analysis & DevelopmentKyoto, Japan
Obsidian Entertainment California, United States
OLM, Inc. Tokyo, Japan
PixarCalifornia, United States
PixomondoFrankfurt, Germany
PlatinumGamesOsaka, Japan
Production I.GTokyo, Japan
Radical AxisGeorgia, United States
RareTwycross, England
Ready at DawnCalifornia, United States
Red Storm EntertainmentNorth Carolina, United States
Reel FX Creative StudiosTexas, United States
Respawn EntertainmentCalifornia, United States
Riot GamesCalifornia, United States
Rise FXBerlin, Germany
Rockstar GamesNew York, United States
Rocksteady StudiosLondon, England
Rodeo FXMontreal, Canada
Rough Draft StudiosCalifornia, United States
Scanline VFXMunich, Germany
Shade VFXCalifornia, United States
ShadowMachineCalifornia, United States
Sledgehammer GamesCalifornia, United States
Sony Pictures ImageworksVancouver, Canada
Square EnixTokyo, Japan
Stereo DCalifornia, United States
Studio PierrotTokyo, Japan
TellTale GamesCalifornia, United States
The Big Machine StudiosCalifornia, United States
Tippett StudioCalifornia, United States
Titmouse, Inc.California, United States
Toys For BobCalifornia, United States
TreyarchCalifornia, United States
TriggerTokyo, Japan
TT GamesKnutsford, United Kingdom
UbisoftCalifornia, United States
Valve CorporationWashington, United States
VolitionIllinois, United States
Walt Disney Animation StudiosCalifornia, United States
Warner Bros. AnimationCalifornia, United States
Weta DigitalWellington, New Zealand
ZyngaCalifornia, United States

I’ve been writing about the animation industry for nearly a decade and last year I assembled the rankings for our 2014 Top 100 Most Influential Video Game Studios and 2014 Top 100 Most Influential Animation Studios . This year, I want to create a comprehensive list of the one hundred best studios to work at across all animation industries.

To help research the constantly evolving landscape of the job market, we sent surveys to hundreds of schools asking which studios actively recruited their students as well as which studios most often employed graduates. When choosing which of the hundreds of companies to include, I also considered what projects studios were working on, and even the quality of life at those studios regardless of salary. Studios are listed in alphabetical order:

animation studio business plan sample

Find a school

343 Industries  - This is the studio that took over Bungie’s Halo series back in 2009 and released Halo 4 in 2012.  In October this year we’ll finally get to play Halo 5: Guardians and see what’s in store for the future of Master Chief. No matter where the series is headed, I’m sure 343 will consider hiring plenty more game artists in the coming years to create make Halo 6. Next year we’ll get Halo Wars 2 to help us wait.

animation studio business plan sample

A-1 Pictures -  This is simply one of the hardest working animation studios in the anime industry today. In 2014 and 2015 combined they have released a new season for twenty four different anime series including the highly anticipated Sword Art Online II and Persona 4 The Golden: Animation. Sure, they often collaborate with other animation studios to complete so many shows, but I don’t think we’ve ever seen a 2D animation studio deliver such an intense schedule of releases in such a short amount of time.

animation studio business plan sample

Aardman Animations -  If you fell in love with the stop motion clay animation in Chicken Run or the Wallace and Gromit films, then this is a studio name you probably know well already. In 2006, they entered the computer animation industry with the film Flushed Away, and since then they’ve worked on the films Arthur Christmas (2011), The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists! (2012), Shaun the Sheep Movie (2015) and they’re currently at work on Early Man (2018) and Shaun the Sheep 2 (TBA).

animation studio business plan sample

Animal Logic -  My prediction from last year for this Australian studio hasn’t come true yet, but I’m still holding out hope! Illumination Entertainment hired Mac Guff to create most of the film Despicable Me for them, and then used the massive profits to buy the studio outright. Warner Bros. Animation went through a similar symbiotic relationship with Animal Logic, which animated all of The Lego Movie for them, so I still wonder if an acquisition is on the horizon. Either way, Animal Logic just opened a new office in Vancouver a few days ago, so they’re doing just fine! Both offices are hiring, so check them out!

animation studio business plan sample

Anzovin Studio -  This animation company is located in Massachusetts and offers services in storyboarding, animation, graphic design, game art, software development, Maya plugins, character designs, character rigging, and can work in Maya, Mudbox, 3DS Max, ZBrush, VRay, Substance Designer, and all the Adobe CC products. Their rigging tools look superb, and it’s no surprise they’ve worked with famous clients like Bungie, A&E, PBS Kids, Microsoft, Syfy, DreamWorks Animation SKG, and Sea World. If you want to work on lots of different projects over a year instead of a huge neverending project over many years, then this could be the perfect studio for you.

animation studio business plan sample

Bardel Entertainment -  The name “Bardel” comes from the names of its married founders, Barry Ward and Delna Bhesania, and they formed this Vancouver animation studio in 1987. Together they’ve handled plenty of large projects in the past, but what’s really gaining them global recognition is The Prophet and their hilarious art in the new television show, Rick and Morty. One of their other ongoing projects is doing all the animations for VeggieTales and VeggieTales in the House.

animation studio business plan sample

Bento Box Entertainment -  This California studio is one of the younger ones on the list, but already has several hit series under its belt. Founded in 2009, they’ve already helped worked on Neighbors from Hell, Bob’s Burger’s, Allen Gregory, Brickleberry, Out There, Murder Police, and Bordertown. Add in the Web series The Awesomes and Gloves and Boots, as well as the films Achmed Saves America and Madea’s Tough Love, and you’ve got one of today’s most promising young studios.

animation studio business plan sample

Bethesda Game Studios -  If you’re a gamer, then all I have to say is the Fallout series and The Elder Scrolls series. Enough said? Enough said. Not a gamer? Then this is a studio name to remember; even when it’s been years since they’ve released a game for either series, I still listed them as one of the most influential video game studios in the world. When Skyrim came out in 2011, the Internet was a quiet wasteland for a few days as everyone unplugged to play the expansive game. Forums went dry, comments sections were barren, and no one got insulted on YouTube for a whole sixty seconds once. Then, a few days later, the Internet damn near broke when everyone came back all at once and discussed the game everywhere and anywhere on every dot com imaginable, which made for one of the most memorable months the net has ever experienced. This November, Fallout 4 will finally be released! Prepare yourselves!

animation studio business plan sample

BioWare -  One of the oldest game studios on this list, BioWare was founded back in 1995 and has been relevant ever since then. Its famously memorable storylines rely heavily on award winning writing, making it a highly competitive studio to get employed at. Lately they’ve been releasing several games for the series Dragon Age and Star Wars: The Old Republic, and are now looking to launch another Mass Effect title. They’ve got a lot of exciting things in motion, but they also have a lot of job applications, so bring your best and see if you can get an interview.

animation studio business plan sample

Blizzard Entertainment -  In one word, legendary. Blizzard was legendary long before they became an Activision subsidiary. Sometimes Blizzard gamers can be notorious for only playing Blizzard games, but even when that’s not the case, the loyalty is still strong. When Blizzard releases a game, almost everyone plays it, regardless of their demographics. For decades they have released the most breathtaking 3D animated cinematics the world has ever seen, even when compared to the best films the box office has to offer those years. They only hire the best, but the projects they tackle are so huge that they hire a lot of employees, so if you want to be one of the thousands of names listed in their next credits list, then apply and see what happens!

animation studio business plan sample

Blue Sky Studios -  Ever since 2002 when they released their first animated film, Ice Age, it’s been a snowball of momentum as they released eight more animated full feature films to date. Gone are the days where Pixar and DreamWorks had no competition except each other, and this studio is looking to finally win an Academy Award with one of their upcoming projects in the next few years: The Peanuts Movie, Ice Age: Collision Course, Ferdinand, and Anubis. They’ll need plenty of help for those projects, so now is the time to reach out to them and get hired.

animation studio business plan sample

Bohemia Interactive  -  Their ARMA 3 game was released in 2013, and then its DayZ zombie survival island mod took over PC gaming in a way that few games ever have in the industry. ARMA 3 and DayZ are still to this day two of the most played games on Steam each and every night of the year even though dozens of studios have cloned their ideas and formats and diluted their stranglehold market share. Bohemia Interactive stays on top of the charts like a zombie that just won’t die. They’re hiring for several positions at their studio in Prague, Czech Republic, which is where their subsidiary studio, Centauri Production, is also located at.

animation studio business plan sample

Bungie -  Back in 2009, they gave their famous Halo series to 343 Industries, and many gamers and businessmen alike thought they were crazy for handing off that lucrative torch to another studio. Could they simply start from scratch and just invent a new independent property and sweep the game industry once again? Years went by without any new game release, but now we know that the answer is yes! Destiny was finally released last year and their new expansion The Taken King caused so much new attention for the game that their monthly player following is still growing rapidly. Expect more expansions, which means more money, which means more jobs! They have 97 job listings on their career page, including several animator positions!

animation studio business plan sample

Cartoon Saloon -  This Irish animation studio was founded in 1999. They’ve worked on several short films, the films The Secret of Kells, Santa’s Apprentice, Moon Man, and Song of the Sea, and television series such as Skunk Fu!, Puffin Rock, and Ellie the Ace. It wasn’t until 2010 when The Secret of Kells was nominated for best animated film at the Academy Awards that this studio gained massive notoriety. Song of the Sea was also nominated at the Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature, so we can’t wait to see this studio’s next project, the film The Breadwinner!

animation studio business plan sample

Cartoon Network Studios -  This conglomerate is as vast as it is varied, and there’s nothing you can’t do or learn if you’re hired by them. The company began in 1994 as a division of Hanna-Barbera Cartoons and it continues to discover and work with some of the most influential shows and artists in the animation industry today. The studio’s recent fame list includes Adventure Time (created by Pendleton Ward), Clarence (created by Skyler Page), Uncle Grandpa (created by Peter Browngardt), Steven Universe (created by Rebecca Sugar), Mixels (created by John Fang and Dave Smith), Regular Show (created by J. G. Quintel), Over the Garden Wall (created by Patrick McHale), and all the others I don’t have space to list. Maybe you will be next?

animation studio business plan sample

CD Projekt RED -  Few studios have their fans as obsessed as this Polish game developer does. It’s a mutual love though, and CD Projekt RED listens more to their fans than perhaps any other studio in the industry. They are willing to go to great lengths to give fans exactly what they want, not to mention speaking out loudly against DRM. Their three main The Witcher games have each been released four years apart, but always fans patiently wait because they know it’s worth it. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt was fantastic, as was the large amount of free DLC, and fans are already looking forward to the expansions Hearts of Stone (October 2015) and Blood and Wine (early 2016). They’re still working on Cyberpunk 2077, and are currently hiring positions for both games!

animation studio business plan sample

Cinesite -  In the past, this was your standard larger than life VFX powerhouse studio that had everything in the world, and couldn’t possibly want more. But they did. And in what I hope is an ongoing trend in the near future, they decided to focus less on hundreds of spectacular small VFX projects and instead tackle their first in-house full length animated film, Charming, about what would happen if Cinderella, Snow White, and Sleeping Beauty all discovered that they were engaged to the same Prince Charming. Oops! The idea is brilliant, the talent is top notch, and if they hit the grand slam everyone expects them to, then Pixar will have yet another direct competitor forever onwards in the 3D industry. Let’s hope!

animation studio business plan sample

Crystal Dynamics -  This California studio was founded in 1992, acquired by Eidos in 1998, which was in turn acquired by Square Enix in 2009. If at first you don’t succeed, try, try, try again. A decade ago they released several Tomb Raider games that struggled to reignite the once-popular series, and then in 2013, everything changed when they launched the emotional and gritty Tomb Raider reboot that gamers are still talking about. They’ve since followed it up with the two much different Tomb Raider spinoffs: Lara Croft: Relic Run, and, Lara Croft and the Temple of the Osiris. Next year we’ll finally get the Tomb Raider reboot sequel we’ve been waiting for when they release Rise of the Tomb Raider on PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Xbox 360.

animation studio business plan sample

Crytek -  For the longest time, Crytek mostly focused on the Crysis game franchise, but in the past few years they’ve been expanding like crazy and we couldn’t be more thrilled. They currently have studios in Frankfurt, Kiev, Budapest, Sofia, Seoul, shanghai, and Istanbul. Since 2013, their projects have included Crysis 3, Warface, Ryse: Son of Rome, The Collectables, Hunt: Horrors of the Gilded Age, Robinson: The Journey, and Arena of Fate. They’re exploring lots of new genres with lots of new IPs, and they’re positioned to be one of the strongest game companies in the world in a decade if they execute the full potential of their ideas.

animation studio business plan sample

Daybreak Game Company -  Formerly named Sony Online Entertainment, this is the studio that’s been responsible for vast online games like EverQuest, EverQuest II, PlanetSide, Star Wars Galaxies, Vanguard: Saga of Heroes, DC Universe Online, and in recent years also PlanetSide 2, Dragon’s Prophet, Landmark, and H1Z1. Lately it hasn’t just been the studio’s name that’s changed; they’re completely redefining EverQuest by developing EverQuest Next as an ambitious and bold MMORPG that has even non-MMO gamers intrigued. Their ongoing support for several MMO communities should mean they’ll always be open to extra help, so even if they’re not hiring for your position currently, apply anyways!

animation studio business plan sample

Digital Domain -  This VFX production company has had many highs and many lows since it was founded in 1993 by James Cameron. Their work in films won them several Academy Awards and BAFTA Awards, and then they won a few more Academy Awards for their proprietary software that helped improve the entire visual effects industry. With every year that passed, they were one of the top names in the industry, but then in 2012 their debt issues resulted in layoffs and bankruptcy. Thankfully, a company this legendary could never stay defunct. Majority ownership of the company changed hands and they’re back now and as strong as ever before. Will you join them on their new saga of success?

animation studio business plan sample

Disney Television Animation -  With help from other studios and varying levels of outsourcing, in recent years this studio has helped release the following Disney series: Gravity Falls, Mickey Mouse, Wander Over Yonder, Phineas and Ferb, Motorcity, Tron; Uprising, Randy Cunningham: 9th Grade Ninja, The 7D, Penn Zero Part-Time Hero, Star vs. the Forces of Evil, Two More Eggs, Pickle & Peanut, Future-Worm!, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Jake and the Never Land Pirates, Sofia the First, and Goldie & Bear. Other projects they should be releasing in the coming years are The Lion Guard, Milo Murphy’s Law, Elena of Avalor, Mickey and the Roadster Racers, and the Tangled television series.

animation studio business plan sample

DisneyToon Studios -  Remember all those borderline unofficial Disney sequels that kept coming out on VHS and DVD over the last few decades? This is the studio responsible for them, but you shouldn’t pretend they don’t exist anymore, because they’ve entered the 3D animation industry and with help from Prana Studios they’re getting phenomenal at it! Their 2013 Planes movie that tied into the Cars series had a budget of $50 million and earned over $239 million, and they’ve already followed it up with the three films The Pirate Fairy, Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast, and Planes: Fire & Rescue.

animation studio business plan sample

Double Fine -  You could argue this is the most famous indie studio of all time. Double Fine was created by Tim Schafer in 2000 a few years after his involvement with Grim Fandango before he left LucasArts, and this studio created the cult classic Psychonauts in 2005 that was highly praised but not highly successful. The studio moderately struggled until recent years, but has now proved over and over again just how beneficial Kickstarter crowd funding can be for great ideas and hard workers in the game industry. To put it into perspective, from 2000 to 2010 Double Fine only released three games. Since then? Almost twenty!

animation studio business plan sample

Double Negative -  Last year I ranked this British full-service visual effects company as the fourth most influential animation studio in the world . While Disney and Pixar release record breaking full length feature films that they make almost entirely internally, studios like Double Negative help dozens of companies each year make award winning box office hits, television scenes, and every other sea of screen pixels you’ve ever dropped your jaw at. Now that they’ve merged with Prime Focus World, their clout will only grow stronger in the future. If you have the choice to work here or somewhere else, you probably only have one real choice on the table.

animation studio business plan sample

DreamWorks Animation SKG -  This studio came from the famous merger of DreamWorks and Pacific Data Images. The Shrek series hasn’t seen another installment in many years, aside from the several Puss in Boots spinoff short films, but it’s rumored a fifth Shrek film is still in talks. DreamWorks doesn’t seem to be in a hurry though, since they’ve got plenty of other successful series they’re still exploring. Last year and this year they brought the box office Mr. Peabody & Sherman, How to Train Your Dragon 2, Penguins of Madagascar, and Home, for a combined earnings of over $1.6 billion. From 2016 to 2018 they’ll be keeping busy with Kung Fu Panda 3, Trolls, Boss Baby, The Croods 2, Larrikins, and How to Train Your Dragon 3.

animation studio business plan sample

EA DICE -  EA Digital Illusions CE is an Electronic Arts subsidiary located in Stockholm, Sweden. They’ve worked on dozens of hit games such as Mirror’s Edge, but their Battlefield game series is by far their most beloved brand. Battlefield 4 along with its expansion packs was a sales monster, Battlefield: Hardline has sold over three million copies across all platforms so far this year, and next year they’ll finally release Mirror’s Edge Catalyst. However, what’s on everyone’s mind right now is the upcoming November 2015 release of their highly anticipated Star Wars: Battlefront!

animation studio business plan sample

Electronic Arts -  This is one of the largest juggernauts in the history of the game industry, and no, they don’t just publish games that other studios make. Their EA Games division is further broken up into Criterion Games, EA Digital Illusions CE (DICE), Ghost Games, Visceral Games, and the three BioWare studios. Then there’s EA Sports, which consists of EA Tiburon and EA Canada. EA Maxis has a few studios that handle the immortal The Sims series, and EA All Play has EA Mobile and PopCap Games. There are literally hundreds of styles of games and animation you could work on depending which studio hires you, so do your research!

animation studio business plan sample

Element X Creative -  This full service motion design studio is dedicated to creative solutions for companies needing typographic design, engaging digital worlds, animated characters, emotional marketing, or all of the above. Their client list includes The Learning Channel, Frito Lay, Hewlett-Packard, National Geographic, MasterCard, Discovery Channel, Leap Frog, Pepsi, Home Depot, Pizza Hut, Chase, Hasbro, AMD, NCAA, JCPenney, Macy’s, NBC, Verizon, Burger King, and IBM. If you want to jump into an extremely creative team of artists, then you would feel at home at Element X Creative.

animation studio business plan sample

Encore Hollywood -  This post production studio started back in 1985 and has modestly been polishing television shows day in and day out since probably before you were born. They still work heavily on primetime ABC, Fox, and CBS shows, they still win VFX awards regularly, and they still have offices in London, New York, Hollywood, Vancouver, and Toronto. Some of their highlights include Elementary, Gotham, The Messengers, True Detective, Fear the Walking Dead, Orange is the New Black, Veep, House of Cards, The Flash, American Horror Story, Girls, and 24: Live Another Day.

animation studio business plan sample

Epic Games -  Early last year, Microsoft acquired the Gears of War independent property from Epic Games, but worry not! Epic Games is still working (with studio People Can Fly) on the eagerly anticipated shelter building survival game, Fortnite. Furthermore, last year they announced a new Unreal Tournament title, which will be free and open to modding to let the fans take control of which paths the game evolves along. Cliff Bleszinski and Mike Capps both left the company a few years back, so now is the time to get hired and shake things up! This should go without saying, but make sure before you apply, that you’re highly skilled at using the Unreal Engine!

animation studio business plan sample

Film Roman -  What can I say about The Simpsons that hasn’t already been said yet? The Simpsons is one of the most influential television shows – animated or not – of all time, and every 2D animator should consider applying for a job with the show just on principle alone. Especially because there’s no telling how much longer it will be around; it’s on season 27 and nearing 600 total episodes to date. Sure, plenty of other studios like AKOM, Anivision, Rough Draft Studios, USAnimation, Toonzone Entertainment, and Klasky Csupo have helped them with the animations in the past, but to work at Film Roman would be one of the most honorable resume bullet points possible in the animation industry.

animation studio business plan sample

Firaxis Games -  When it comes to turn based strategy games, few studios can even compete with their recent larger than life games such as Sid Meier’s Civilization V: Brave New World, XCOM: Enemy Within, Sid Meier’s Civilization Revolution 2, and Sid Meier’s Civilization: Beyond Earth. This studio’s cult following has been around for almost two decades, but in recent years they’re starting to reach millions of other gamers as they watch the demand for their games continue to grow. Next year the world will finally get its hands on XCOM 2, and maybe by then you’ll be working for them!

animation studio business plan sample

Floyd County Production -  Do you love the animated TV show, Archer? Do you find yourself making inappropriate Archer quotes every week amongst best friends and even complete strangers? I know the feeling. Want to help make another season for the show? If so, then Floyd County Production is the studio you need to send your portfolio to. May I suggest a demo reel involving Archer shooting twenty Krieger clones while being chased by an ocelot and yelling “mawp” repeatedly in between swigs of bourbon?

animation studio business plan sample

Framestore -  If you’ve ever watched a single movie or television show, basically, Framestore says “you’re welcome.” If you already watched The Martian with Matt Damon, then they say "you're welcome" again. They’re everywhere from small commercials to VFX you don’t even notice in your favorite shows, to making movie scenes that even a few years ago weren’t possible. They worked on the film Gravity for three years, and then enjoyed winning just about every VFX award in existence. They worked on several of the most successful films this year, and thanks to their close relationship with OculusVR they claim to have the world’s first VR studio, so the idea that they’re only starting to tap into their full potential is hard to fathom.

animation studio business plan sample

From Software -  Although this studio has been around and respected since its inception in 1986, it wasn’t until they released Demon’s Souls in 2009 that their fandom truly surged to the top of the game industry. With that game, as well as Dark Souls, Dark Souls II, Bloodborne, and next year’s Dark Souls III, they continue to give players unforgivingly hard gameplay that’s engaging enough that the players didn’t mind seeing the animations over and over hundreds of times while they die repeatedly. So what better game animation studio could you want to work for if you want your game animations to be seen a lot?

animation studio business plan sample

Fuzzy Door Productions -  This is Seth MacFarlane’s company, and with help from a few other studios, it’s responsible for American Dad, Family Guy, and The Cleveland Show that ended recently, and Bordertown which will be starting next year. American Dad has been on television for a decade and Family Guy has had a few more seasons than that, so if you want to apply and get involved with either show then you’d better not wait much longer!

animation studio business plan sample

Gearbox Software -  This Texas studio was founded way back in 1999 and has worked on strong titles since day one, but it wasn’t until a full decade later when they released Borderlands that they caused huge ripples in the game industry. Since then they’ve resurrected Duke Nukem Forever, made a few Aliens games, several more Borderlands games, Homeworld Remastered Collection, and next year will be unleashing their new MOBA, Battleborn. They also have another game in the works for each of these three series: Brother in Arms, Duke Nukem, and Borderlands. So it should come as no surprise that they’re looking to hire another animator and several other artist positions currently.

animation studio business plan sample

Hi-Rez Studios -  After the DotA MOBA genre blew up the game industry by proving new design genres were still waiting to be discovered after all these decades, tons of studios jumped up and rushed to the vastly deep game mechanics . . . only to just clone what was already being done, and failing to strike gold for some mysterious reason. Not Hi-Rez Studios. Their free-to-play third person MOBA game, Smite, rose to the occasion and has seen massive success in the past few years. They continue to expand in a game market that’s still very new, and I’m sure they could use more help as they continue to carve out their place in the eSports market.

animation studio business plan sample

Hybride Technologies -  This Canadian visual effects studio is located in Piedmont, Quebec, and in 2008 was acquired by Ubisoft. Yes, the world famous video game developer and publisher, Ubisoft, wanted to own a VFX movie making machine, and they picked Hybride Technologies. If Hybride is good enough for Ubisoft to buy, then they’re probably good enough for you to work at, so what are you waiting for?! This year their work in Black Sails, Tomorrowland, and Jurassic World was revealed to the world, and currently they’re hard at work on Blizzard’s Warcraft film!

animation studio business plan sample

Illumination Mac Guff -  A lot of Despicable Me fans still don’t realize that Illumination Entertainment outsourced almost the entire development of the film to Mac Guff, and then used the film’s huge profits to buy the entire studio outright in 2011. That’s not a bad thing; it’s just two amazing studios merging together to make bigger and better things in the 3D business battlefield, and they sure haven’t disappointed so far. Their films The Lorax, Despicable Me 2, and Minions were all huge hits, and the next two years should bring us two more Illumination hits: The Secret Life of Pets and Despicable Me 3.

animation studio business plan sample

Image Engine -  This Vancouver visual effects studio started in 1995 and focused heavily on the VFX for every episode of Stargate SG-1 for a few years before transitioning to mostly just scenes in films. Since their work on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, they’ve also contributed VFX scenes to the films Chappie, Child 44, San Andreas, Jurassic World, Straight Outta Compton, and the upcoming films The Last Witch Hunter, Point Break, Deadpool, and Independence Day: Resurgence. They’re currently hiring for over a dozen different positions!

animation studio business plan sample

Industrial Light and Magic -  Every year I praise this studio as the best in the world, and not much has changed. This year I’ll simply list the 2015 titles they’ve massively worked on, and let the list speak for itself: Avengers: Age of Ultron, Tomorrowland, Jurassic World, Strange Music, Terminator Genisys, Ant-Man, Hitman: Agent 47, The Martian, Spectre, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, The Revenant, and next year they’ll be the integral studio behind the highly anticipated films Warcraft and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Half Shell.

animation studio business plan sample

Infinity Ward -  The father studio of the famous Call of Duty series! They’ve created seven Call of Duty games in ten years, and their most recent one – Call of Duty: Ghosts – has sold 25.87 million copies across all platforms since it was released in late 2013. The three year development cycle of the war series had Sledgehammer Games release Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare last year, with Treyarch releasing Call of Duty: Black Ops III this year, and then next year Infinity Ward will take their turn releasing another core Call of Duty game for the series. However, this time the studio’s former Lead Designer, Todd Alderman, who left the company a few years ago during legal disputes, is returning for the 2016 game as Multiplayer Project Director!

animation studio business plan sample

Insomniac Games -  After releasing Fuse and Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus in 2013, they unleashed Sunset Overdrive on the world in 2014, which had mixed reviews but mostly everyone agreed it was a pleasant new flavor from the company who mainly only released Resistance and Ratchet & Clank titles. They further raised eyebrows this year by releasing four mobile games instead of any console titles. Next year they’ll launch a Ratchet & Clank remake on the PlayStation 4, but after that they’ll raise eyebrows once again with their intriguing Edge of Nowhere action adventure game for the Oculus Rift! Want to get involved? Of course you do! Good news; they’re hiring for several art and animation positions!

animation studio business plan sample

Kixeye -  Some of their popular games are Backyard Monsters, Battle Pirates, War Commander, Desktop Defender, Vega Conflict, and TOME: Immortal Arena. This San Francisco developer started out in 2007 as two guys with a dream to change the game industry, and thanks to their successful Facebook game releases they’ve accomplished more than they could ever have dreamed. Some of their games see tens of millions of installs, and they’ve enjoyed over five million monthly active players, and way back in 2012 they were even projected to earn over $100 million. If you want to make mobile games and social games that are played across the planet, Kixeye should be high on your list.

animation studio business plan sample

Laika -  This offbeat stop motion animation studio has brought the world unique feature films such as Coraline in 2009, ParaNorman in 2012, and The Boxtrolls last year. Fun fact: the studio is owned by the Nike co-founder, Phil Knight. In August of next year, their next film, Kubo and the Two Strings, will be released. It might not be the studio for everyone, but their niche is almost unparalleled in the industry.

animation studio business plan sample

Legend 3D -  In 2015, they worked on the films Jupiter Ascending, Insurgent, Poltergeist, Ant-Man, Enchanted Kingdom, The Walk, Goosebumps, and The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2. Doing VFX work for eight highly acclaimed box office hits is enough to make our list, but what makes this studio truly deserve their Legend 3D name is their new venture: launching a virtual reality division. Yes, the future is here, and they will be one of the first top tier studios exploring this quickly approaching new VR animation industry.

animation studio business plan sample

Lucasfilm Animation -  Their domination of the Star Wars television niche continues! Last year they released the short film Lego Star Wars: The New Yoda Chronicles. They also animated seasons for the shows Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels, with plans to launch another one soon, named Star Wars Detours. Lucasfilm Animation has also created three television specials in the past two years: Phineas and Ferb: Star Wars, Star Wars Rebels: Spark of Rebellion, and Star Wars Rebels: The Siege of Lothal. With a new Star Wars film coming out in theaters soon they should only continue to grow as new and old fandoms overlap.

animation studio business plan sample

Luma Pictures -  Luma started in 2002 with an office in Santa Monica and has worked on over 70 films since then, including four Coen Brothers movies. In 2012, they opened a new office in Melbourne, Australia, and both locations are currently hiring. In 2015 alone, they’ve done VFX work for the films Run All Night, The Age of Adaline, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Ant-Man, The Vatican Tapes, The Last Witch Hunter, Heart of the Sea, and The Divergent Series: Insurgent.

animation studio business plan sample

Marvel Animation -  Every year since this animation studio’s creation in 2008, it creates several new super hero animated shows or direct-to-video films. Last year they released the films Avengers Confidential: Black Widow Punisher and Iron Man & Captain America: Heroes United, and this year they (with help from Studio Mir) just launched their television series for Guardians of the Galaxy! Even though it utilizes a fair amount of animation outsourcing – as do tons of studios on this list – Marvel Animation will no doubt continue to inspire and influence geeks of all ages.

animation studio business plan sample

Method Studios -  I’ve said it before , and I’ll say it again: “While some studios focus heavily on films and less on commercials, there’s almost no section of the industry that Method Studios isn’t fully present in and destroying all of their competition.” Last year I ranked them as the fifth most influential animation studio in 2014, and I still believe that Method Studios is about as reliable as a VFX brand name can be in today’s world. It would be an honor to work for them on any of their hundreds of award winning projects.

animation studio business plan sample

Mojang -  Last year, on September 8th, 2014, I awarded Mojang the ranking of third most influential video game studio of 2014. Exactly one week later, Microsoft acquired Mojang for $2.5 billion. If we had rankings again this year, you can bet your diamond blocks that it’d still be in the top five. In a few years when Microsoft HoloLens finally brings Minecraft augmented reality maps to households across the globe, it’ll be hard not to rank Mojang as the most influential studio of the decade as the virtual reality industry finally unfolds. They have also released Scrolls despite the trademark controversies, and in October they will enter the third party publishing business when they release Oxeye Game Studio’s game, Cobalt.

animation studio business plan sample

Moonbot Studios -  This might be the most original studio on the list. William Joyce is a writer, illustrator, and filmmaker. In 2009, he and Brandon Oldenburg co-founded Moonbot Studios, and the company makes books, films, apps, games, and literally whatever they feel passionate about. Sometimes Joyce brings his own ideas to life like in 2012 when The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short. However, sometimes, he gives his ideas to other animation studios to bring to fruition, like when he had Blue Sky Studios adapt his book, The Leaf Men and the Brave Good Bugs, into the feature film, Epic, which earned $268 million on a $93 million budget. Have you heard of the CGI film, Rise of the Guardians? He wrote the book series it’s based on, and even though he’s already famous I continue to wonder why he’s not far more famous like a small handful of other industry names on the Internet. He deserves it.

animation studio business plan sample

MPC -  The largest blockbuster hits each year in theaters require dozens of VFX studios to contribute a few shots to make the film greater than the sum of its parts. However, when MPC makes an astounding 857 shots for a film like Guardians of the Galaxy, then it blurs the definition of simply “outsourcing” to VFX studios, and I wish they got to stamp their company name on posters and commercials like Disney and Pixar enjoy doing. Oh, and by the way, during the production of Guardians of the Galaxy, Moving Picture Company still found enough time and pairs of hands to work on the movies Elysium, Godzilla, Fast & Furious 6, X-Men: Days of Future Past, and World War Z.

animation studio business plan sample

Naughty Dog -  It’s hard to even define the “golden years” for this studio. They started off immensely popular, they stayed ridiculously loved, and lately they’ve migrated to more serious storylines with The Last of Us and the Uncharted Games, which has resulted in countless awards and gamers wondering how they could possible top what they’ve already accomplished. To do so they’ll need the best artists and minds on the planet, so if you work with them you’d immediately get the chance to work on an incredible title.

animation studio business plan sample

NetherRealm Studios -  Four years ago they did what many thought was impossible: they brought the Mortal Kombat series back from its fatality grave and made people not just tolerate it, or accept it, but actually fall in love with the game all over again. Two years ago they released Injustice: Gods Among Us, which was like Mortal Kombat but with DC Comics characters, and then earlier this year they released Mortal Kombat X. They boast the most gruesome and brutal animations in the business, so if you really want to be challenged as an animator while also having the time of your life, this very profitable studio could be a great home for you.

animation studio business plan sample

Nickelodeon Animation Studios -  In 2012, I listed Nickelodeon as the fifth most influential animation studio of all time . I can think of no greater honor for an animator than to have their work beamed into the living rooms of children each and every week, and knowing that your work will be enjoyed and digested for decades in memories as those personalities grow up with the life lessons they learned from your animated characters and scenes. Nickelodeon is like a second set of parents to countless millions of blooming minds each year. With TeenNick’s upcoming TheSplat project, which will rebroadcast Nickelodeon classics each night on TV and also online at their site, more eyes will be on Nick than ever before, so now is the perfect time to join them!

animation studio business plan sample

Nintendo Entertainment Analysis & Development -  Love children’s entertainment, but don’t want to be stifled by target age demographics? Desire a work atmosphere that embraces innovation more than most businesses on the planet? Want to bravely work on ideas no one else is bold enough to try? And do you want your hard work to be seen and played by millions of gamers? If so, Nintendo might be the home for you.

animation studio business plan sample

Obsidian Entertainment -  This studio likes to explore and expand on the ideas of other studios’ games, and has created sequels for a variety of different game series in the industry. You’d think that would be too challenging for them to move in and out of so many completely unrelated projects of passion, but they keep delivering success after success. Their recent titles include South Park: The Stick of Truth, Wasteland 2, Pillars of Eternity, Skyforge, and they are still working on Armored Warfare. They’re hiring for a multitude of positions split across their games’ communities and have a few extra perks to their employee benefits list.

animation studio business plan sample

OLM, Inc.  -  Formerly Oriental Light and Magic, this Tokyo studio became famous for the original Berserk series and the myriad of Pokémon cartoon episodes you probably watched before catching the bus for school in the mornings of your youth. They created two more Pokémon films in the past year, but they’ve mostly been keeping busy with the anime series Future Card Buddyfight 100, Tamagotchi! Miracle Friends, Yo-Kai Watch, GO-GO Tamagotchi!, Dragon Collection, Monster Retsuden Oreca Battle, Omakase! Miracle Cat-dan, and Kami-sama Minarai: Himitsu no Cocotama, as well as two Yo-Kai Watch movies!

animation studio business plan sample

Pixar -  You know how every legendary undefeated boxer goes through a period of fame followed by a period of colossal doubt as everyone expects them to finally falter and fail as they grow older? That’s Pixar, and after Disney’s Frozen people are still gossiping, but Pixar still isn’t falling. They’re going the distance, and for the foreseeable future they’re still arguably the best animation studio on the planet.

animation studio business plan sample

Pixomondo -  This VFX studio launched in Germany in 2001 and has since expanded to offices in Los Angeles, Toronto, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Beijing, and Shanghai. Pixomondo contributed 62 minutes of special effects scenes to the 2012 film, Hugo, which won them the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. Since then, they’ve continued to work on award winning movies and television shows across the planet, but they have gotten the most press since 2012 for their ongoing involvement with Game of Thrones. Each year they handle some of the show’s most demanding VFX scenes, including designing and animating the dragons. Their awards for their Game of Thrones work alone include an AEAF Award, an Animago Award, 2 VES Awards, and 3 creative Arts Emmy Awards.

animation studio business plan sample

PlatinumGames -  This studio began in 2006 from former members of Capcom’s Clover Studio, and their release record has been filled with stunning graphics and varied gameplay. The result has been a steady growth in loyal fans who will play anything they release, even if it’s outside their normal gaming tastes. They’re located in Osaka, Japan, and their timeline from 2014 onwards includes Bayonetta 2, The Legend of Korra, Transformers: Devastation, Star Fox Zero, Scalebound, a new Nier project, and Project Guard. Seriously, what other company right now is working on three games at the same time, that are each exclusives for three different game consoles? Perhaps a few, but certainly not as well as this studio can do it.

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Production I.G -  In 2012, on my Top 100 Most Influential Animation Studios of All Time list, I ranked them at 29. Then, they released Psycho-Pass, one of the most unique anime series of the past decade. Then, they (along with Wit Studio) released a little anime by the name of Attack on Titan. It’s one of the most successful anime series of all time with an entire VFX-heavy live action film adaptation of it that came out this summer in Japan. I truly don’t think they can top themselves again any time soon, but they’ve been full of surprises since they opened their business back in 1987, so it’s probably just a matter of time before lightning strikes again.

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Radical Axis -  You like Adult Swim animations, but you don’t love most of the family-oriented animation you see on television. You grew up on cartoons and still love them into your adulthood, but wish there were more adult cartoons to watch. If this is you, then Radical Axis might be the home for you. It was founded in 2000 by Scott Fry, the original animator for the series Aqua Teen Hunger Force, and it’s grown from a storage closet at Cartoon Networks’ William Street facility into a booming business with offices in Atlanta, California, and Thailand.

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Rare -  What a nostalgic time it would be to work for Rare! This year they celebrated their 30th anniversary with the release of Rare Replay, the compilation of 30 of their previous hit titles. They have no doubt slumped from their industry throne status in decades past, but it’s also recognizable that Rare wants to fight for the throne once again and is starting to build momentum moving forward. This could be the perfect time to join Rare. Check out their upcoming game, Sea of Thieves, before you make your decision!

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Ready at Dawn -  This game developer studio is in Irvine, California, and was founded by former members of Naughty Dog and Blizzard Entertainment in 2003. They released Daxter in 2006, and then in 2008 made God of War: Chains of Olympus and an Okami port for the Wii. 2010 brought God of War: Ghost of Sparta, and the PS3 God of War: Origins Collection. Then . . . the studio went quite for many years, until they stormed back into the spotlight earlier this year with the PlayStation 4 title, The Order: 1886. We’re excited to keep out eyes on this company!

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Red Storm Entertainment -  This wholly owned subsidiary of Ubisoft Entertainment has had a large fan following since it opened its doors in 1996. Currently located in North Carolina, they’re still making Tom Clancy’s Rainbox Six games and Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon games. In recent years they’ve also helped out the other Ubisoft divisions on Far Cry 3 and Far Cry 4, and next year the next evolution of the Tom Clancy video game series will finally be unveiled: Tom Clancy’s Division, an open world online third person role playing shooter.

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Reel FX Creative Studios -  This already successful studio has so much potential to become one of the biggest animation studios on the planet. Ever wonder why more VFX studios don’t just try to make entire feature length films and follow in Pixar’s massively profitable footsteps? Obviously the reason more don’t is because of how difficult and risky that is to do, but Reel FX is up for the challenge. Lately they’ve made two animated films independently in-house: Free Birds in 2013, and last year’s massively underrated The Book of Life. Make sure you fight to get hired by them now before they grow large enough to compete with Pixar and become inundated with job applications!

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Respawn Entertainment -  Easily one of the most successful new studios on the planet. Jason West and Vince Zampella started Infinity Ward in 2002 but later both left the company and started Respawn Entertainment in 2010. 38 Infinity Ward employees resigned and followed them, and last year they released their first game, Titanfall, which has sold 4.44 million copies split across PC, Xbox 360, and Xbox One. A Titanfall sequel is in the works, as is another unnamed project, so you should apply to their California studio if you want to work with them on either.

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Riot Games -  This is the studio that took the world by storm with their League of Legends MOBA game, which easily earned them fourth place on our Top 100 Most Influential Video Game Studios rankings last year. They have offices in St. Louis, Dublin, Berlin, Seoul, São Paulo, Istanbul, Moscow, Sydney, and Taipei. Riot enjoyed $624 million revenue in 2013 and the MOBA genre is still young, which is why this is still one of the most exciting studios you can work at in the game industry right now. Make sure you read my interview with the Riot Games Senior Animator , Rory Alderton!

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Rise FX -  Rise FX began in 2007 with four VFX artists in a single room in Berlin. Since then they’ve grown to eighteen full-time staff members and 80 freelancers from across the globe. Their credits for last year and this year include Captain America: The Winter Solider, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Hologram for the King, Borgia season 3, Guardians of the Galaxy, Unfinished Business, Avengers: Age of Ultron, and Richard the Stork.

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Rockstar Games -  Take your pick: Rockstar Leeds (England), Rockstar Lincoln (England), Rockstar London (England), Rockstar New England (USA), Rockstar North (Scotland), Rockstar San Diego (USA), or Rockstar Toronto (Canada). Don’t be fooled though; Rockstar isn’t likely to just keep pumping out Grand Theft Auto games for too much longer. They have their own game engine (RAGE), and will likely be focusing on older or brand new intellectual properties in the coming years. If you’re okay with not knowing what tomorrow holds, then this could be the most exciting time to join their company in years!

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Rocksteady Studios -  In 2009, they released their second game, and it won countless Game of the Year Awards. They followed Batman: Arkham Asylum up with Batman: Arkham City in 2011 and Batman: Arkham Knight this year, and the great accolades just keep on rolling in. If you want to work at a studio where gamers set their hopes high and expect greatness from your team, then Rocksteady is one of the most reliable studios for its size, with 160 current employees.

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Rodeo FX -  This studio houses 300 visual effects professionals who continue to dazzle us every year with their work on the HBO show, Game of Thrones, which they just won their second Emmy for! Congratulations! Game of Thrones and Birdman were both nominated for an HPA Award, and they were also pivotal in the production of the films Unbroken, Jupiter Ascending, Cinderella, Furious 7, Tomorrowland, and Fantastic Four. Their recent productions list has us excited to see what else they’ve been working on lately: The Walk, The Last Witch Hunter, In the Heart of the Sea, Deadpool, and the highly anticipated Warcraft movie! If you'd like to apply for a job, they have offices in Montreal, Los Angeles, and Quebec City.

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Rough Draft Studios -  Their studios in California and South Korea have helped bring a hundred different animated film and television shows to life since they started in 1991. They worked extensively on Futurama for years, and have even contributed to the shows The Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants along the way. This year they have been involved with episodes of Adventure Time, The Simpsons, Uncle Grandpa, Gravity Falls, and We Bare Bears. It should be no surprise that they’ve received a prestigious industry award almost every single year since 1999. Last year they won an Annie Award for Futurama once again, and so far this year they have already been nominated for a 2015 Annie Award for their TV special, How Murray Saved Christmas.

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Scanline VFX -  With studios in Los Angeles, Vancouver, and Munich, this studio has made a name for itself by tackling some of the most challenging VFX scenes in movies each year. If there’s an amazing action scene where the camera doesn’t cut away or try to hide anything, then that’s a sign Scanline VFX may have been involved. They haven’t worked on Game of Thrones since season four, but you can see their recent scenes in films like The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 and Part 2, Exodus: Gods and Kings, Blackhat, Furious 7, San Andreas, and soon we’ll see their VFX work in the films Pan, In the Heart of the Sea, Point Break, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Independence Day: Resurgence.

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Shade VFX -  In recent years, this company with LA and NY studios took good advantage of the New York tax credit program for filmmakers by doing VFX for several high budget films like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Hercules, and The Interview. However, lately they’ve been very committed to doing all the special effects for the Daredevil show on Netflix, and are already hard at work on all of the episodes of next year’s season two. In the meantime, they’re still working on the shows True Detective, Olive Kitteridge, Black Sails, the upcoming Jessica Jones and Westworld shows, and also the movies Pixels, Poltergeist, American Ultra, The Intern, Unforgettable, Love the Coopers, Going in Style, The 5th Wave, and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.

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ShadowMachine -  The stop motion animations for Robot Chicken from 2005 to 2012 came from this impressive Los Angeles studio, and their work was rewarded with several Emmy Awards and Annie Awards along the way. Moral Orel, Titan Maximum, Mary Shelley’s Frankenhole, and TripTank were all also well received, but their newest show is perhaps their most successful one yet: Bojack Horseman, the animated Netflix adult comedy. Get ready for their next project; this October they’ll enter the movie business when they release Hell and Back, a stop motion animated adult comedy film that looks like it will cause as many laughs as it does controversies! Their next films will be Lucy and the Anvil and Pinocchio.

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Sledgehammer Games -  This is the third tip of the new Call of Duty studio triangle, along with Infinity Ward and Treyarch. Together, the three of them work simultaneously on three different games for the series over three years on a rotating release schedule that ensures fans never run out of more Call of Duty content each year! Sledgehammer joined this partnership in 2011 when they co-developed Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 with Infinity Ward, and last year they made and released Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare independently, with new gameplay mechanics for the series, which was greatly welcomed by new and old fans alike! They are currently hiring for several animation positions, so check them out!

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Sony Pictures Imageworks -  This is one of the VFX studios with the most momentum in the industry right now. It was founded in 1992 and has worked hand in hand with its sister company, Sony Pictures Animation, ever since 2003. Not only have they worked on dozens of influential special effects scenes from recent box office hits, but they even made the Arnold Renderer that helped change global illumination and shading software in the industry. If you want to work at a studio using cutting edge technology to become the best in the business, then this studio shouldn’t disappoint.

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Square Enix -  This is one of those brands that if someone has to tell you about this studio, then you might not want to work there. They already get unending amounts of applications from diehard fans of their video games, so you should already be passionate about their releases before applying. I suggest browsing the recent Square Enix titles they’ve worked on (usually with other studios) and keep in mind that in the past few years they’ve also become very invested in their Square Enix mobile games .

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Stereo D -  This studio was formed in 2009 and has already worked on quite the luxurious list of recent box office hits: Avengers: Age of Ultron, Ant-Man, Exodus: Gods and Kings, Jurassic World, Mad Max: Fury Road, San Andreas, Terminator Genisus, The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Guardians of the Galaxy, and many others. They have offices in Burbank, Toronto, and Pune in India, and they even currently have dozens of job openings, so act quick!

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Studio Pierrot -  One of the most famous anime studios of all time is at a crossroads. Their highly popular Bleach series that began in 2004 came to a close in 2012, and the end may finally be in sight for the Naruto anime franchise, which began way back in 2002. Pierrot has worked on several other shows and movies in the past year, but many still wonder what the future holds for this company. Will they branch off in yet another revolutionary era of domination, or will they stumble? Maybe now is the perfect time for you to pitch a show idea to them?

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TellTale Games -  What a lovely game studio. They’ve always had a huge niche following for their story driven adventure games, but it wasn’t until late 2012 when they released The Walking Dead: Season One that a wave of new gamers tried their content and fell in love. In recent years this studio with roughly 240 employees has pumped out more seasons of Walking Dead game releases, The Wolf Among Us, Tales from the Borderlands, their story adventure game for Game of Thrones, and the upcoming Minecraft: Story Mode. TellTale Games is truly one of the hottest studios in the business right now.

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The Big Machine Studios -  The world of VFX for television commercials requires imaginative artists who can work hard under short deadlines. If you enjoy fast paced projects and having a constant flow of fresh material and artistic challenges, then this studio would love to hear from you. They’ve done branded content for Geico, Hershey’s, Colgate, Wendy’s, Subway, Sonic, Capital One, and over the past twelve years they’ve worked on over one thousand design and animation projects.

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Tippett Studio -  Their prestigious list of credits stretches all the way back to 1990s and 1980s when they started off making stop motion animations and movie props for films like Ewoks: The Battle for Endor, RoboCop, Willow, Jurassic Park, and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. Last year they helped create Cosmos, A Million Ways to Die in the West, Deliver Us From Evil, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Remaining, The Pyramid, and The Crossing. This year they did extensive work for Ted 2 and created the Jurassic World Mobile MovieMaker App that lets you put CG dinosaurs into your home movies!

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Titmouse, Inc. -  Since 1999 when Titmouse was founded, this animation studio has been creating or helping one hit after another. Some of their past milestone shows include Avatar: The Last Airbender, Metalocalypse, Superjail!, Black Dynamite, Motorcity, and Randy Cunningham: 9th Grade Ninja. The shows they’re still working on after one or numerous seasons are Turbo Fast, Kirby Buckets, The Venture Bros., and China, IL. Deciding that wasn’t enough to keep them busy, they also just launched the new show Moonbeam City and will be launching the animated show TV Sucks within the next year!

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Toys For Bob -  While they weren’t the first studio to do it, this Activision subsidiary was the first studio to succeed in selling toys alongside video games and having the toys in your room help you inside the game as you were playing. Since 2011, they’ve released four hot selling Skylanders game that followed this setup, and now that other studios are trying to follow in their profitable footsteps I’m sure that Activision will be pressuring them to pull out all the stops and surprise the world with something big soon. Activision has announced their interest in making a Skylanders animated film, so we should know more soon on all fronts!

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Treyarch -  This is the studio that took turns with Infinity Ward, releasing a new Call of Duty game every other year to ensure that fans had a new war shooting game to enjoy each and every year. Since then, Sledgehammer Games has joined the mix, and now the game series rotates in a three year cycle. Perhaps this made Treyarch feel added pressure to compete, because their most recent releases have been some of their best to date. In 2010, they launched the Black Ops subseries for Call of Duty, with a sequel in 2012, and Call of Duty: Black Ops III coming out later this year!

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Trigger -  Studio Trigger is a newcomer in the animation industry; it was founded in late 2011 by former Gainax employees Hiroyuki Imaishi and Masahiko Ohtsuka. Despite being the new name in the business, this studio is already surpassing tons of competition with its highly popular Kill la Kill anime series. Other than creating the opening animations for Project X Zone and Black Dynamite, their recent production list includes Inferno Cop, Little Witch Academia, When Supernatural Battles Became Commonplace, Ninja Slayer From Animation, and the short film, Little Witch Academia 2.

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TT Games -  This is the studio behind the deluge of loved Lego video games based on movies, or super heroes, or even the Lego inception that is The Lego Movie Videogame. They worked on an astounding 11 different titles in 2013 and 2014, proving they know how to keep busy. Worry not, though, they’re currently hiring for the positions VFX Artist and In-Game Animator!

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Ubisoft -  Ubisoft Montreal ranked fifth on my 2014 Top 100 Most Influential Video Game Studios list, and I still consider them to be one of the best in the game business. Even though the massively successful Assassin’s Creed series has slowed down in recent years, there are literally dozens of Ubisoft subsidiary game studios you can choose from, each with its own exciting project going on. If you want to work at a company with lots of upward growth potential in your career, then Ubisoft could be a great home.

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Valve Corporation -  Last year, I awarded them the top spot on my list of the hundred most influential video game studios, and they still deserve it this year, too. They probably don’t need many new animators now, but then again, Valve always lists their game credits as just names without job titles. Because that’s what this studio is like: all for one and one for all. They only want people who are passionate about a shared vision for a game, and then are willing to work on any and every aspect of the game for as long as it takes to make the exact game they all envisioned. One day an animator could write dialogue for a game, the next they might playtest a game or help design the layouts for a Dota 2 tournament arena stage like the Dota Major Championships. If you love animation, but want more than just animation, a better studio for your needs than Valve probably doesn’t exist.

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Volition -  Do you not want to settle for any job, and care less about money than having as much fun as possible? This is one of the highest quality-of-life studios out there for employees, and while I can’t legally promise they end wars and cure cancer, their Saints Row games are some of the best uplifting flavors of silly that pixels can provide. In 2013, they released Saints Row IV and its DLC Enter the Dominatrix, and this year they followed it up with Saints Row: Gat out of Hell. They’re currently looking for animators, so don’t let this opportunity slip past you!

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Walt Disney Animation Studios -  I obviously don’t need to tell you how important this studio is, but, it is easy for artists to forget that the studio was in a mild slump for a while. So it’s good to remind people that as huge and famous as this company is, it’s still gaining momentum and expanding. Wreck-It Ralph earned close to half a billion dollars worldwide in 2012, and then in 2013 Disney’s Frozen more than doubled that to make it the highest grossing animated film of all time. Now is the best time to work for Disney in decades.

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Warner Bros. Animation -  This company is still working on tons of animated television shows (like Mike Tyson Mysteries) and direct-to-video features, but the “Warner Animation Group” division has huge plans in store for the future. Last year they kicked off a drastically long feature film to-do list with The Lego Movie, which they plan to follow up with Storks (2016), Lego Batman (2017), Lego Ninjago (2017), The Lego Movie Sequel (2018), Scooby-Doo (2018), The Flintstones (TBA), The Jetsons (TBA), Adventure Time (TBA), Smallfoot (TBA), Billion Brick Race (TBA), and possibly two more mystery projects tucked in along the way. I’ve already predicted they would acquire Animal Logic (who made most of The Lego Movie for them) just like Illumination Entertainment hired Mac Guff and later bought them as well. Other acquisitions are also entirely possible, because that’s quite the animation gauntlet they’ve scheduled for the next few years!

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Weta Digital -  This famous New Zealand VFX studio was founded in 1993 by Peter Jackson and others. Now that the Lord of the Rings film trilogy and the Hobbit film trilogy are both finally complete after all these years, you’d think we’d be sad, but we’re not. Instead, we’re ecstatic to see what’s next on the horizon for this studio now that it’s entirely free to go in any direction it wants. Over the past two decades they’ve dazzled us with scenes in plenty of other great films, so it’s going to be thrilling to see which titles they elevate in the near future with their top tier attention to detail.

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Zynga -  Probably the most successful mobile game company of all time, Zynga has had over 240 million monthly active users at one point, with 20 million daily active players, and about 2,000 employees! Despite their equity being listed at $1.895 billion last year, their stock has struggled in recent years and dozens of their once famous game communities have been discontinued. Dozens of their other wildly popular social games are still alive and healthy though, and Zynga has also expanded its business into online gambling and board games. Make sure you check out our Zynga Career Profile !

We hope you find the perfect job for you! If you’d like to recommend another studio (or your own!) then please feel free to reach out and email me !

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CAPYBARA Animation.

Benjamin Bat

Looking for some animated magic that will take your project to the next level?

At our animation studio, we know that the key to creating amazing animations is a mix of experience and good old-fashioned fun .

With our team of seasoned experts, who have worked on major feature films, you can trust that your project is in good hands.

Whether it's story development, 3D preproduction, animation, or character design, we specialize in all aspects of bringing your vision to life.

So why wait? Scroll along and get to know us – we can't wait to show you what we can do!

[email protected]

Lauwerecht 12

3514 BB Utrecht

The Netherlands

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Sem Assink ​

Founder & Production Supervisor

Once upon a time, long ago in 2005, the first ever Dutch 3D animated short film was born at the Netherlands Filmacademy. And Sem graduated with this very special piece of Amsterdam history! In the decade that followed he developed his

skills as a character/creature animator and

Story Artist at Guerrilla Games. From 2016 on out, Sem changed his course back into his original love: film. Since then he has been awakening robot dinosaurs, vampire cows, alien infected cleaners, floating carpets, giant sloths, and so on. His undestroyable patience, positive attitude and creative eye earned him the seat of supervising animator. Next to guiding a team of animators, he is also a tutor for new talent at the Netherlands Filmacademy.

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Lewis van der Werf

Founder & Animation Supervisor

Don’t let that huge smile deceive you; Lewis is serious when it comes to animation. He studied animation in the Netherlands, Scotland and France, and is a passionate and ambitious animator who knows his way around 3D and 2D animation, layout and storyboarding. He gets heavily inspired by Asterix & Obelix, Tintin and Looney Tunes. Animation is not the only thing that impassionates Lewis; he loves to play squash, draws a beautiful portrait in a matter of minutes, and the rumour goes he can cook a really tasty risotto. 

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Niels Medemblik ​

Co-Founder & CG Supervisor

Where capybaras are normally slow and relaxed creatures, Niels may be quite the opposite. At high speed he works his way through all facets of production. Technical details or high-level scope discussions are all familiar terrain for this Capybara. Niels' broad knowledge comes partly from his rich work history and partly from his infinite curiosity. A quality that we at Capybara applaud, because knowledge is power. All these extraordinary qualities still make us question; is Niels secretly a hamster on steroids, disguised as a Capybara?

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Daniëlle de Jonge ​

Production Manager

Autumn colors and a creative workplace: these are the ingredients for a cheerful Danielle. This down-to-earth girl is an expert at creating streamlined overviews, while overseeing creative and technical choices at the same time. These two superpowers make her the engine of every production. We are still looking for a suitable cape for this role. Probably something orange/yellow/brown-ish.

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Home / How to Make a Mobile App Business Plan: Steps & Template

  • May 14, 2020

How to Make a Mobile App Business Plan: Steps & Template

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The development of a mobile app is not the exception to this rule. Writing a business plan for an app is a wise step if you have an excellent idea for future business. Today app stores like Google Play and App Store have more than 4 million apps in total. It shows that the popularity of mobile apps is growing, not vice versa. 

Worldwide mobile app revenue is expected to grow up to $581,9 billion, as Statista notes. And even if you think that your future app idea is brilliant, you should create an app business plan. Why is it a must-have stage in software development? How to write a business plan for an app? This article will reveal all the secrets. 

Why Do You Need A Business Plan For An App?

For a start, we need to understand the reasons for a business plan and how it contributes to the development process of a mobile app. There are the following advantages when you draw up a business plan for creating an app. 

Attract funding.

A business plan is necessary when you need to show the value of your future app to investors, and convince them to invest their funds. The business plan spells everything out, potential investors see how they benefit from your project, and all pros and cons are evident. 

Collaboration with co-founders.

The next advantage of an app development business plan is to find co-founders and collaborate with them. For example, you may need a specialist in a specific area so that the co-founder will assist you in the development of high-quality software. 

Risk reduction.

Business plan writing takes you a step closer to your goal. It is more likely that you will succeed with a detailed and elaborate business plan, rather than you will make random actions and rely on luck. 

Adherence to the deliberate strategy.

Once you’ve come up with a decision to build a mobile app, a startup business plan makes it possible for you to follow the predetermined business path. Pitfalls and various obstacles will certainly appear on your way, but a business plan will be a set of crucial points you must adhere to. 

Stay on your toes.

You are developing an app business plan, and you need to study the market situation alongside. Thus, you become more prepared for any unpleasant surprises, clarify all your goals, and set priorities correctly. The business plan is a way to reveal hidden risks and avoid failures.  

Proper tasks management.

And, finally, your app business plan becomes a tool to manage critical tasks and perform them correctly. Besides, when you single out each task to be done, you can delegate it to the right responsible person in your team. 

Proper development strategy means half of the battle. Cadabra Studio is always ready to assist you in planning the one. Contact us !

Ways To Check The Viability Of Your Business Plan For Mobile App

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A business plan availability doesn’t make your future app accessible by default. It helps you take appropriate steps, but the viability of your idea should be proved first. You can do it with the help of the following tools: 

PPC Ads Research

This is the first and very effective way to find out how your app may be widespread. Use Google or Facebook for PPC ads (pay-per-click), make creative advertising, and estimate your budget. You will need to allocate a specific amount of money for PPC ads, but it is a competent method to identify the level of interest in your product. 

Use Google Trends

Using Google Trends, you can input keywords associated with your app idea. If you figure out that there is a problem users want to solve, your app may become a solution. There may be an increasing interest in the app type you may create. Thus, it makes your idea potentially beneficial. 

However, don’t forget that if your idea is unique, and you want to enter the market with a new product, Google Trends will be impractical. 

Analyze Competitors On App Stores

In case your app idea is not innovative, you should analyze existing competitive apps on Google Play and App Store, and get as much data about them as possible. Download a few apps of your category, test them, identify the pros and cons, read reviews, analyze why users love/hate them. 

It is not a short-term task, and you have to spend some time, days (or even weeks) to monitor the data and get a full understanding of competitors’ products. 

Run App Analytics Platforms 

Various tools for app analytics may be used successfully for analyzing the market, so get acquainted with trends and sizes of different segments. Mind to use Similar Web as well — the analytics platform that helps you monitor mobile statistics in addition to web. This way is similar to Google Trends method. However, it allows you to get a comprehensive picture of the viability of your future software. 

Conduct A Detailed Survey

Communication with potential customers is never a wrong method. You can run polls on various social media platforms and get more about customer behavior, preferences, and expectations. The more information you get from the audience, the fewer mistakes you will be able to make. You can see more details on the necessity of customer research — this article reveals the experience of world-known companies. 

How To Make A Business Plan For An App

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Probably, you still have an essential question that we didn’t answer yet — how to make an app business plan? The answer is simple — you should keep up with the mobile app development business plan template. Let’s check it out in detail. 

Mobile App Business Plan Template

When you are writing a business plan for a mobile app, it is recommended to follow the structure below, step by step. This is a framework that will also be helpful for the creation of any other type of business. 

Executive summary

— Unique value proposition (UVP)

— Targets / Objectives

Problem Analysis

— Company overview

— Company history

— Management Team

Market Analysis

— Market forecasts

— SWOT analysis

Marketing Strategy

— Target market

— Competitor analysis

— Create a landing page

— App rating

— Product growth

— Startup costs

— Revenue models

— Funding required

And now, using this mobile app business plan example, we will highlight each point fully right here. 

Executive Summary

These are the first steps in creating an app business plan since the executive summary is the essential document you should have. The summary contains critical aspects of your future business, financial predictions, primary calculations. Investors will get acquainted with the summary in the first turn, keep it in mind. 

You must include a unique value proposition (UVP) that describes how your product differs from any other mobile apps. And the ultimate objectives you want to achieve with your business. Investors want to see their interests and benefits, so they will focus on your end goals and ways how you determine the success of your app. 

Your app should be unique and outstanding to gain the lead. Cooperate with a reliable team like Cadabra Studio to build fascinating software — drop us a line !

Describe what problems exist and how your mobile app may help users deal with them. A comprehensive analysis of the market allows you to pinpoint the gaps in the market niche and fix them with your product. 

This point smoothly follows from the one above. Once the analysis is complete, you can find the right solution to the problem and add it to your app. Investors want to know how your startup is going to hit the market and gain the popularity of users.

Company Overview

Your company may include only a couple of employees (and you are one of them). If you are planning to build a startup, and you are a founder, you may probably start your business on your own. Or you hire a team. Everything depends on the requirements of your business and mobile app, in particular. 

Anyway, provide information about your company, its history , and the team (if you have one). The more transparency you give the funders, the more trust they will have in your business and activities. 

It is not the same as problem analysis. Market analysis is necessary since it shows the current situation on the market and its state. You should provide a marketing plan, and a detailed report proves the viability of your software. 

It must include market forecasts . That is, you show the real demand in your product, the number of possible customers in this niche, how creditworthy they are. Also, include statistics of potential app growth in your niche. 

Besides, you must provide a SWOT analysis . SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. You single out each point and describe all the pros and cons of your future product, what it can do, and reasons why it may fail.

The marketing strategy makes it possible for your app to capture the attention of customers quickly and at the right time. 

First, you start with target market research . You identify the behavioral patterns and preferences of your target audience and analyze how your ideal customers should look. 

Then, competitor analysis . That is what we talked about when describing the way to validate your idea. Find out everything about your competitors, what particularities their product has. It will help your mobile app be different from other competitors and enhance your product.

You can also create a landing page . It should include promotional videos, descriptions of your app, and CTAs, of course. 

App rating . Your goal is to improve and make as high as possible. So you should think about the improvement strategy like high performance, load time increase, etc. The high ranking will make your app more popular among users. This point also includes product growth strategy.

The last point of your plan includes the financial part. Investors will pay rapt attention to this section, so draw up a detailed list of all expenses. Startup costs/funding required list specifies all types of costs you may bear, estimated expenses for the development of a mobile app, and also don’t forget to specify extra charges in case of force majeure circumstances. 

It is not an easy process since you need to consider each minor detail and stay scrupulous. However, don’t forget that you should hire a software development company, and this company may provide you with a detailed estimate of mobile app development. Business development managers from Cadabra Studio will prepare the list of expenses for mobile app building, and your investors will have a precise estimate. 

Finally, share your monetization strategy with investors. In-app purchases, paid subscriptions, premium app versions, advertising — this list may be extended, but these are the most popular monetization ways. It is up to you which one of them is preferable for your mobile app. 

Do you know the cost of your app development? Contact Cadabra Studio to estimate your budget efficiently and plan the development.

Is This The End?

Actually, this is the end of the article. But the beginning of your new business. You spent a lot of time making a business plan, but the game is worth the candle, believe us. Writing a business plan for app development is similar to a skeleton — if it has all bones, it will stand firm. 

A template of a business plan will be your guide, and you won’t make thoughtless decisions. In case you still have more questions on how to start a mobile app business, we are always glad to help you and make your idea real. Drop us a line when it is convenient for you. We are always in touch. 

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of medical app development depends on several factors like your needs, set of features, technology stack, and so on. Though our business analytics make sure to not spend an unnecessary penny.

To make a mobile app screen, you need to create a user flow diagram for each screen, draw wireframes, select design templates, and colors, create layouts, and create an animated prototype.

We usually take our clients through the following steps:

  • Planning and Research; 
  • Prototyping;
  • Development;
  • Maintenance.

You will participate in every stage of the development process and get regular updates.

Tell us about your project

  • UX/UI design
  • Marking research
  • Logo and branding

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Paintball Business Plan Template

Published Apr.09, 2018

Updated Apr.23, 2024

By: Jakub Babkins

Average rating 4.3 / 5. Vote count: 3

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Paintball Business Plan

Table of Content

Do you want to start paintball business?

Are you thinking of how to start paintball business ? You can never go wrong with this venture considering paintball is now a popular sport not only the United States but across the entire globe. In the U.S alone, there are over 5 million active paintball fans who invest heavily in the equipment and attire. In addition, the increasing number of professional tournaments and leagues has increased the demand for modern paintball facilities. There are also numerous exciting activities associated with paintball and opening a paintball business will reward you with good profits so long as you carefully plan your business setup strategy .

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

The paintball business will be known as ZonerB Paintball and will be located off Exit 3 in Brookside, Kansas City. This is an excellent population that serves a large population of residents making it an ideal sport to open the business. ZonerB is a family business that will be owned and managed by Phil Richards who is a Professional Paintball Instructor.

2.2 Management Team

Phil Richards is an accomplished paintball instructor who has been actively working in the industry for over fifteen years. During his career, Phil has managed several popular paintball facilities. He is a familiar and well respected instructor who has been deeply involved in the region’s paintball events. He was a league commissioner in several tournaments around the country.

2.3 Customer Focus

ZonerB Paintball aims to offer an exciting, relaxing and social atmosphere for clients. In planning how to start a paintball business , ZonerB is keen to provide a well-equipped and friendly facility for its customers.

2.4 Business Target

The business hopes to focus on investing in a modern and impressive paintball facility that will offer diverse fun activities that will keep everyone entertained.

Paintball Business Plan - 3 Years Profit Forecast

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Phil Richards is a well-respected paintball instructor who has worked with several teams to clinch various awards and championships. During his career as an instructor and manager of several paintball facilities, Phil acquired first-hand experience in paintball business, something he hopes to replicate when opening a paintball field .

3.2 Aim of Starting the Business

The paintball culture has increased in the recent times inspiring Phil to go ahead with his plan of setting a nice, modern and well equipped paintball facility that meets the needs of paintball lovers. Despite Brookside having many paintball businesses, the rising popularity of the game has created numerous opportunities for ZonerB to explore.

3.3 How the Business will be Started

To make ZonerB a trendsetter paintball facility in Brookside, Kansas City, Phil Richards has hired professionals with vast knowledge in business startups to come up with a financial roadmap to meet business goals. Key financial data is indicated in the table below.

Paintball Business Plan - Startup coast

Legal$3,200
Consultants$2,500
Insurance$15,000
Rent$20,000
Research and Development$15,000
Expensed Equipment$12,000
Signs$4,000
TOTAL START-UP EXPENSES$72,700
Start-up Assets$0
Cash Required$210,000
Start-up Inventory$60,000
Other Current Assets$15,000
Long-term Assets$8,000
TOTAL ASSETS$22,000
Total Requirements$27,000
$0
START-UP FUNDING$180,000
Start-up Expenses to Fund$135,000
Start-up Assets to Fund$325,000
TOTAL FUNDING REQUIRED$0
Assets$35,000
Non-cash Assets from Start-up$13,000
Cash Requirements from Start-up$0
Additional Cash Raised$65,000
Cash Balance on Starting Date$125,000
TOTAL ASSETS$0
Liabilities and Capital$0
Liabilities$0
Current Borrowing$0
Long-term Liabilities$0
Accounts Payable (Outstanding Bills)$0
Other Current Liabilities (interest-free)$0
TOTAL LIABILITIES$0
Capital$0
Planned Investment$0
Investor 1$42,000
Investor 2$20,000
Other$0
Additional Investment Requirement$0
TOTAL PLANNED INVESTMENT$140,000
Loss at Start-up (Start-up Expenses)$55,000
TOTAL CAPITAL$63,000
TOTAL CAPITAL AND LIABILITIES$65,000
Total Funding$165,000

Services for Customers

ZonerB has invested heavily in modern equipment and technologies to grow the paintball culture in Kansas City. In order to start a paintball business that brings good profits, Phil Richards has decided to be innovative and diversify his range of services offered at the paintball facility. Services offered at ZonerB include:

  • Indoor and outdoor paintball courts
  • Provision of paintball ammunition and gear
  • Fully equipped Go Kart facility
  • Restaurant and dining business

With all these services, ZonerB has found a unique way to cater for needs of different clientele.

Marketing Analysis for Paintball Business

For ZonerB to accomplish its business goals, a detailed market analysis was carried out to identify what areas need to be focused on to successfully conquer the marketplace. Good paintball business plans have an elaborate marketing strategy that is designed with in line with the current market trends. The paintball business hopes to use this strategy to outshine its competitors and secure a large customer base.

5.1 Market Segmentation

After studying the paintball culture in Kansas City and doing an extensive market analysis, ZonerB intends to reach out to the following groups of customers. It’s worth noting that potential clients in this case are anyone interested in paintball games.

Paintball Business Plan - Market Segmentation

5.1.1 Under 18 years

Paintball is an exciting game that attracts large masses of young people. For this reason, this is a key customer group the business intends to reach out. A large section of the local population consists of teenagers and young children thus presenting an excellent opportunity for ZonerB to market its services. Despite many similar established businesses in the area, Phil Richards knows the appetite for paintball especially among this age group keeps growing. In addition, a large section of under 18 year olds are still in schools which play a huge role in popularizing paintball across the city.

5.1.2 19-64 Year olds

Many residents who fall in this age group belong to the working class and therefore, earn a steady income. Given the large middle class population, these residents can afford to buy paintball ammunition and attire required for an exciting gaming experience. The business hopes to sell various services and packages to this customer segment bearing in mind they have a disposable income that allows them to spend on numerous entertainment activities. After opening a paintball field business , this group of customers is expected to frequent the paintball club to have fun and unwind.

5.1.3 Over 65 Year Olds

This category caters for senior citizens who have retired from an active career life but are looking for something exciting to keep them busy. With paintball increasingly becoming popular, seniors have also been attracted to the game. They’re an extremely sensitive group and require good customer care and help to feel comfortable within the business premises.

5.1.4 Corporates

Because of the growing interest in paintball, corporates have joined the bandwagon by regularly organizing staff paintball fun days. In addition, there are numerous paintball tournaments and competitions where various corporate teams drawn from various companies participate. This is a lucrative market segment because a single corporate booking is guaranteed to generate the business good income.

5.1.5 Professional Paintball Stakeholders

ZonerB paintball field business plan also aims to target to professional paintball teams and league organizers looking for a venue to use for tournaments. Given the number of many venues across Kansas, the business has an uphill task of positioning itself strategically to reach out to this market.

       
Potential CustomersGrowth CAGR
Under 1830%35,00038,00041,00044,00047,00010.00%
19-64 years15%30,00033,00036,00039,00042,00012.00%
Over 65 years22%20,00023,00026,00029,00032,00014.00%
Corporates18%15,00018,00021,00024,000 27,000 16.00%
Professional Paintball Stakeholders15%10,00013,00016,00019,00022,00010.00%
Total100%80,00095,000              110,000125,000140,00015.00%

5.2 Business Target

ZonerB comes into the market when paintball popularity is at its peak. This is a strategic time considering starting a paintball business when there’s so much hype about the game is smart and strategic. Innovativeness is the major driving factor for the business as it seeks to use a unique business model and customer approach to distinguish itself from competitors. It is expected the paintball will be able to recover its capital within the first three years of operation. Annual sales are expected to grow on an average of 15%.

5.3 Product Pricing

How much does it cost to start a paintball business and how do I recover my startup capital? To accurately determine whether a business will be able recover the initial, product pricing is a key component that needs to be well defined. Just like other paintball business plans , ZonerB understands it has to get the pricing right to be able to survive competition. The plan is to diversify pricing using different packages to ensure all customer groups are adequately catered for. Pricing will be arrived at after considering what other paintball businesses are charging their clients. The idea is to charge slightly less than competitors especially in the first few months to popularize the brand and win customer trust.

The success of a business is not only how to start a paintball business but which strategies are put in place to ensure business goals are realized. Phil Richards has worked closely with experts in business strategy to come up with a sustainable and result-oriented approach of consistently growing customer numbers and boost revenue. The following sales strategy has been adopted to help steer the business to positive growth.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

ZonerB Paintball field knows customer care and professionalism are the core values of success when starting a paintball field . The business intends to hire well trained and professional staff with hands-on skills to deal with various customers. In addition, the paintball field’s strategic location and nearness to public transport facilities is expected to bring in more customers.

6.2 Sales Strategy

In order for the paintball business to attract more customers to the facility, the following sales strategy will be rolled out.

  • Engage in intensive marketing campaigns to create awareness for people looking for a nice and well equipped paintball field.
  • Sponsor college league and weekly youth championships to reach out to the youths.
  • Advertise the business on popular local media channels and incorporate digital media i.e. social media and paid local online adverts.
  • Create advertising campaigns in locations such as local universities since they bring together a large number of potential customers.
  • Invest in the latest state-of-the art equipment and technologies to improve customer experience
  • Creatively design the paintball field with an attractive landscape and exciting colors to draw attention to the facility.
  • Emphasize on exemplary customer service and ensure customer needs are well taken care of.

6.3 Sales Forecast

ZonerB is committed to fully implement the above defined sales strategies and keep a close eye on its financial books to increase annual sales. The information below summarizes sales forecasts for ZonerB Paintball business.

Paintball Business Plan - Unit Sales

Unit Sales Year 3
Indoor and outdoor paintball courts340,000410,000450,000
Paintball ammunition and gear220,000250,000300,000
Go Cart facility270,000290,000320,000
Restaurant and dining services390,000450,000520,000
TOTAL UNIT SALES
Unit PricesYear 1Year 2Year 3
Indoor and outdoor paintball courts$150.00$160.00$200.00
Paintball ammunition and gear$80.00$100.00$120.00
Go Cart facility$150.00$180.00$210.00
Restaurant and dining services$200.00$250.00$270.00
Sales   
Indoor and outdoor paintball courts$300,000$350,000$400,000
Paintball ammunition and gear$270,000$310,000$350,000
Go Cart facility$85,000$125,000$145,000
Restaurant and dining services$260,000$300,000$310,000
TOTAL SALES   
Direct Unit CostsYear 1Year 2Year 3
Indoor and outdoor paintball courts$2.20$3.20$4.20
Paintball ammunition and gear$2.00$3.00$5.00
Go Cart facility$1.60$2.60$4.00
Restaurant and dining services$6.00$5.00$4.00
Direct Cost of Sales   
Indoor and outdoor paintball courts$200,000$220,000$140,000
Paintball ammunition and gear$150,000$180,000$210,000
Go Cart facility$155,000$135,000$152,000
Restaurant and dining services$160,000$175,000$195,000
Subtotal Direct Cost of Sales$255,000$385,000$465,000

Personnel Plan

ZonerB is a large paintball field that requires staff with different expertise to work together and facilitate smooth operations of the business. For Phil Richards and anyone else planning how to start a paintball field , the following staff is key to run the business.

7.1 Personnel Plan

ZonerB Paintball field is owned by Phil Richards, an experienced Paintball Instructor who will be the overall manager of the business. The business will also employ the following professionals to work in various departments.

  • One Assistant Manager
  • One Accountant
  • One League Coordinator
  • One Customer Care Representative
  • Two Marketing Executives
  • Two Cleaners
  • One Safety Inspector
  • One Concession Person
  • Two Referees

Successful candidates will undergo extensive training on various areas of focus associated with a paintball field before the business officially opens.

7.2 Average Staff Salaries

In the first three years of operations, ZonerB Paintball field intends to pay its personnel the following annual average salaries.

 
1 Assistant manager$60,000$65,000$70,000
1 Account$35,000$42,000$47,000
1 League Cordinator$30,000$34,000$38,000
1 Customer care representative$27,000$33,000$36,000
2 Marketing executives$52,000$56,000$60,000
2 cleaners$40,000$45,000$47,000
1 Concession person$22,000$28,000$32,000
2 Referees$52,000$55,000$58,000
Total Salaries$265,000$350,000$425,000

Financial Plan

ZonerB has a comprehensive financial plan that is expected to guide business management. Starting paintball field requires an elaborate financial plan to help the business meet its financial obligations and run its operations. Initial capital will be supplemented by a bank loan to help kickstart operations. The following is a summary of various financial statistics for ZonerB Paintball business. This is key information for anyone planning to open a paintball field business.

8.1 Important Assumptions

ZonerB has computed its financial expectations based on the assumptions below.

 
Plan Month123
Current Interest Rate14.00%16.00%18.00%
Long-term Interest Rate7.00%7.00%700.00%
Tax Rate12.00%14.00%16.00%
Other000

8.2 Brake-even Analysis

The graph below indicated ZonerB Paintball business Brake-even Analysis.

Paintball Business Plan - Brake-even Analysis

Monthly Units Break-even10000
Monthly Revenue Break-even$160,000
Assumptions: 
Average Per-Unit Revenue$250.00
Average Per-Unit Variable Cost$0.70
Estimated Monthly Fixed Cost$320,000

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

Below is Profit and Loss information for ZonerB Paintball field determined on a monthly and annual basis.

 
Sales$600,000$700,000$800,000
Direct Cost of Sales$50,000$60,000$80,000
Other$0$0$0
TOTAL COST OF SALES
Gross Margin$420,000$550,000$560,000
Gross Margin %80.00%74.00%83.00%
Expenses   
Payroll$250,000$350,000$425,000
Sales and Marketing and Other Expenses$8,000$5,000$9,000
Depreciation$7,000$9,000$6,000
Leased Equipment$0$0$0
Utilities$7,000$5,000$6,000
Insurance$9,000$10,000$8,600
Rent$14,000$16,000$18,000
Payroll Taxes$50,000$65,000$70,000
Other$0$0$0
Total Operating Expenses$320,000$350,000$400,000
Profit Before Interest and Taxes$40,000$60,000$80,000
EBITDA$30,000$50,000$80,000
Interest Expense$0$0$0
Taxes Incurred$24,000$26,000$30,000
Net Profit$120,000$135,000$140,000
Net Profit/Sales40.00%55.00%60.00%

8.3.1 Monthly Profit

Paintball Business Plan - PROFIT MONTHLY

8.3.2 Yearly Profit

Paintball Business Plan - PROFIT YEARLY

8.3.3 Monthly Gross Margin

Paintball Business Plan - GROSS MARGIN MONTHLY

8.3.4 Yearly Gross Margin

Below is a Profit and Loss Analysis for the business.

Paintball Business Plan - GROSS MARGIN YEARLY

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

The diagram below indicates subtotal cash received, subtotal cash spent, subtotal cash spent on operations, subtotal cash from operations and Pro forma cash flow.

Paintball Business Plan - Projected Cash Flow

Cash Received
Cash from Operations   
Cash Sales$100,000$205,000$260,000
Cash from Receivables$10,000$15,000$18,000
SUBTOTAL CASH FROM OPERATIONS
Additional Cash Received   
Sales Tax, VAT, HST/GST Received$0$0$0
New Current Borrowing$0$0$0
New Other Liabilities (interest-free)$0$0$0
New Long-term Liabilities$0$0$0
Sales of Other Current Assets$0$0$0
Sales of Long-term Assets$0$0$0
New Investment Received$0$0$0
SUBTOTAL CASH RECEIVED
ExpendituresYear 1Year 2Year 3
Expenditures from Operations   
Cash Spending$20,000$25,000$30,000
Bill Payments$5,000$10,000$22,000
SUBTOTAL SPENT ON OPERATIONS
Additional Cash Spent   
Sales Tax, VAT, HST/GST Paid Out$0$0$0
Principal Repayment of Current Borrowing$0$0$0
Other Liabilities Principal Repayment$0$0$0
Long-term Liabilities Principal Repayment$0$0$0
Purchase Other Current Assets$0$0$0
Purchase Long-term Assets$0$0$0
Dividends$0$0$0
SUBTOTAL CASH SPENT
Net Cash Flow$27,000$35,000$58,000
Cash Balance$33,000$48,000$53,000

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

Below is ZonerB Projected balance sheet indicating assets, liabilities, capital, current liabilities and long-term assets.

Assets
Current Assets   
Cash$300,000$350,000$380,000
Accounts Receivable$100,000$120,000$150,000
Inventory$5,000$6,000$9,000
Other Current Assets$6,000$3,000$9,000
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
Long-term Assets   
Long-term Assets$20,000$23,000$30,000
Accumulated Depreciation$33,000$36,000$40,000
TOTAL LONG-TERM ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS
Liabilities and CapitalYear 1Year 2Year 3
Current Liabilities   
Accounts Payable$25,000$38,000$46,000
Current Borrowing$0$0$0
Other Current Liabilities$0$0$0
SUBTOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES
Long-term Liabilities$0$0$0
TOTAL LIABILITIES
Paid-in Capital$20,000$20,000$20,000
Retained Earnings$25,000$60,000$85,000
Earnings$150,000$220,000$240,000
TOTAL CAPITAL
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND CAPITAL
Net Worth$320,000$450,000$380,000

8.6 Business Ratios

This is a representation of Business Ratios, Ratio Analysis and business Net Worth for ZonerB Paintball business.

 
Sales Growth20.00%23.00%30.00%10.00%
Percent of Total Assets    
Accounts Receivable10.00%9.00%8.00%11.00%
Inventory8.00%54.00%9.00%
Other Current Assets1.00%3.40%3.00%20.00%
Total Current Assets86.00%90.00%120.00%43.00%
Long-term Assets-6.00%-10.00%-20.00%30.20%
TOTAL ASSETS
Current Liabilities10.00%7.00%5.00%18.00%
Long-term Liabilities0.00%0.00%0.00%20.00%
Total Liabilities7.00%3.00%1.50%30.00%
NET WORTH
Percent of Sales    
Sales90.00%90.00%90.00%90.00%
Gross Margin70.00%63.00%60.00%0.00%
Selling, General & Administrative Expenses50.00%60.00%45.00%60.00%
Advertising Expenses5.00%4.00%2.30%3.50%
Profit Before Interest and Taxes30.00%24.00%26.00%3.50%
Main Ratios    
Current1813120.9
Quick271325.51.5
Total Debt to Total Assets4.05%3.00%2.65%40.00%
Pre-tax Return on Net Worth90.00%87.00%93.00%4.20%
Pre-tax Return on Assets60.00%58.00%65.00%10.00%
Additional RatiosYear 1Year 2Year 3 
Net Profit Margin15.00%10.00%20.00%N.A.
Return on Equity60.00%50.00%48.00%N.A.
Activity Ratios    
Accounts Receivable Turnover579N.A.
Collection Days7887100N.A.
Inventory Turnover181618N.A.
Accounts Payable Turnover12.216.217N.A.
Payment Days252525N.A.
Total Asset Turnover3.62.72.9N.A.
Debt Ratios    
Debt to Net Worth0-0.09-0.01N.A.
Current Liab. to Liab.000N.A.
Liquidity Ratios    
Net Working Capital$500,000$520,000$640,000N.A.
Interest Coverage000N.A.
Additional Ratios    
Assets to Sales1.452.483.32N.A.
Current Debt/Total Assets8%4%3%N.A.
Acid Test303335N.A.
Sales/Net Worth3.31.71.7N.A.
Dividend Payout000N.A.

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  2. 15+ SAMPLE Animation Proposal in PDF

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  3. How to write a business plan for an animation studio?

    animation studio business plan sample

  4. Craft Your Animation Studio Business Plan: 9 Steps Checklist

    animation studio business plan sample

  5. Why you should begin an animation studio business plan today

    animation studio business plan sample

  6. Animation Studio Business Plan Template

    animation studio business plan sample

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  1. Animation Studio Business Plan [Sample Template]

    A Sample Animation Studio Business Plan Template 1. Industry Overview. Animation studio business falls under the Video Post-production Services industry and the industry includes companies that prepare motion pictures for public distribution by performing editing, subtitling, closed captioning, animation and other special effects services. ...

  2. How to write a business plan for an animation studio?

    A business plan has 2 main parts: a financial forecast outlining the funding requirements of your animation studio and the expected growth, profits and cash flows for the next 3 to 5 years; and a written part which gives the reader the information needed to decide if they believe the forecast is achievable.

  3. Craft Your Animation Studio Business Plan: 9 Steps Checklist

    This checklist will guide you through the 9 essential steps to create an effective business plan for your animation studio. Define the vision and mission of the animation studio: Clearly articulate your goals and aspirations for your studio, outlining what you aim to achieve in terms of creativity, quality, and customer satisfaction.

  4. Craft Your Animation Studio Business Plan: 9 Steps to Success!

    Welcome to our blog post on how to write a business plan for an animation studio! Animation is a booming industry, with a high demand for creative and visually appealing content across various sectors. According to recent statistics, the global animation market is expected to reach $411 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 8.4%. This presents ...

  5. Sample Animation Studio Business Plan

    This animation company business plan sample is written to enhance your chances of getting it right. We've noticed over the years that people fail not because they lack the skills but because their business isn't properly planned. If you find yourself in this category, this template might be of interest. i. Strength.

  6. Business Plan Template for Animators

    Independent animators or animation studios can use the ClickUp Business Plan Template to effectively plan and manage their animation projects, attract potential investors or clients, and stay organized throughout the process. To get started, hit "Add Template" to sign up for ClickUp and add the template to your Workspace.

  7. Starting an Animation Studio: Essential Tips and Strategies

    Sample Business Plan an Animation Studio. Business Plan for SunFlare Animation Studios. Executive Summary. SunFlare Animation Studios is a dynamic, innovative company specializing in the creation of high-quality, engaging 2D and 3D animations for clients across the entertainment, advertising, and education industries. Our mission is to tell ...

  8. Create Your Animation Studio: 9 Steps to a Winning Business Plan!

    1. Build a professional website: Create a visually appealing and user-friendly website that showcases your animation portfolio, services, and client testimonials. Make sure your website is optimized for search engines to attract organic traffic and leads. 2.

  9. Animation Studio Business Plan Template

    In a Animation Studio business plan, the following financial information should be included: 1. Start-up costs: This includes all the expenses required to launch your animation studio, such as equipment purchases, software licenses, office space rental, marketing costs, and legal fees. 2.

  10. Craft Your Animation Studio Business Plan: 9 Steps to Success

    Why you should begin an animation studio business plan today - Start An Animation Studio with Appleatt.com. ... If YES, here is a sample animation workshop business map stencil & feasibility report. Identify Potential Partners Or Investors For Funding The Support. When starting an animation studio, finding potential partners or our is deciding ...

  11. How to start an animation business in 8 steps

    Decide on your animation niche. Create a business plan. Select a business structure. Obtain business financing or capital. Create your animation portfolio to attract clients. Set up accounting and bookkeeping services. Source specific animation equipment. Register your animation studio.

  12. Why you should begin an animation studio business plan today

    The set-up costs for your animation studio are arguably the most important you'll have to consider. Taking the time to write an animation studio business plan will make sure set-up costs are realistic. You should also know where the money is coming from. The last thing you want is to rely on a client who suddenly cancels on you.

  13. Animation Studio Business Plan Presentation

    Free Google Slides theme and PowerPoint template. Download the "Animation Studio Business Plan" presentation for PowerPoint or Google Slides. Conveying your business plan accurately and effectively is the cornerstone of any successful venture. This template allows you to pinpoint essential elements of your operation while your audience will ...

  14. How to Start a Profitable Animation Business [11 Steps]

    Start now. 1. Perform market analysis. Before venturing into the animation industry, it is critical to understand the market landscape to make informed business decisions. A thorough market analysis will help identify your potential customers, competitors, and the overall demand for animation services.

  15. How to Start an Animation Studio

    4. Creating Your Animation Studio Website. To have a successful marketing strategy, you need somewhere to direct people so they can find your portfolio, contact details, and information about why you are the best choice over your competitors. These days, this 'place' is expected to be your website.

  16. The #1 Animation Business Plan Template & Guidebook

    How to Write a Animation Business Plan in 7 Steps: 1. Describe the Purpose of Your Animation Business. The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your animation business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers.

  17. Animation Proposal

    An animation proposal is a business document that motion graphics designers devise to negotiate and offer their services to prospective clients. This form is a lengthy and complex document that mainly aims to persuade business prospects to sign an agreement or a business contract. In addition, it also helps the designer to get more projects.

  18. Animation Studio Startup Course

    START AN ANIMATION STUDIO - PRO COURSE. PLAN, START & GROW AN ANIMATION STUDIO. 7 Modules. Business Plan + Extras. £149 +VAT. Buy Course. Animator talks business. Watch on any device. For animators & producers.

  19. Animation Studio Business Plan

    Create an impressive Animation Studio Business Plan! Craft your success with our sample template. Get started now and thrive in the animation industry. Financial Models. Business Plans. Tools. Pitch Decks; ... For the Animation Studio business plan, the potential groups of customers can be categorized based on specific characteristics as shown ...

  20. Where to Work: Top 100 Studios for Animation Professionals

    Riot Games - This is the studio that took the world by storm with their League of Legends MOBA game, which easily earned them fourth place on our Top 100 Most Influential Video Game Studios rankings last year. They have offices in St. Louis, Dublin, Berlin, Seoul, São Paulo, Istanbul, Moscow, Sydney, and Taipei.

  21. HOME

    At our animation studio, we know that the key to creating amazing animations is a mix of experience and good old-fashioned fun. With our team of seasoned experts, who have worked on major feature films, you can trust that your project is in good hands. Whether it's story development, 3D preproduction, animation, or character design, we ...

  22. How to Make a Mobile App Business Plan: Steps & Template

    Dyachenko Anastasia. CEO at Cadabra Studio. UX expert and business consultant. The development of a mobile app is not the exception to this rule. Writing a business plan for an app is a wise step if you have an excellent idea for future business. Today app stores like Google Play and App Store have more than 4 million apps in total.

  23. Paintball Business Plan Template [Update 2024]

    7.1 Personnel Plan. ZonerB Paintball field is owned by Phil Richards, an experienced Paintball Instructor who will be the overall manager of the business. The business will also employ the following professionals to work in various departments. One Assistant Manager. One Accountant.