Completion Finance is a type of financial assistance provided to a film, TV, or video game that has already begun production but needs additional funds to complete it. This type of funding is crucial when a project is partially done but faces unexpected costs or budget shortfalls, preventing it from reaching its final stages, such as post-production, editing, or distribution.

1. Project Review: The project is evaluated to confirm that it is near completion and assess how much work remains. The funders will often review the current status of the project, including scripts, footage, financial records, and timelines.

2. Gap Analysis: The amount of funding required to finish the project is determined. The producers must outline how these funds will be used, specifying costs like post-production, marketing, visual effects, or other essential expenses.

3. Funding Agreement: Once approved, an agreement is made between the project creators and the investors or funding bodies. In exchange for the funds, the financiers might request certain rights, shares in profits, or credits in the project.

Private Investors: Individuals or organizations willing to invest for potential future returns.

Production Companies: Companies already involved in media production might offer additional funding if they see potential.

Grants and Funds: Some public or private organizations offer grants to projects that align with their goals.

Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo can help raise smaller amounts from a large number of backers.

Unforeseen Costs: Budget overruns, reshoots, or changes in creative direction can cause financial strain.

Post-Production: Editing, special effects, sound design, and marketing often require more resources than initially planned.

Distribution Requirements: Completing the project to meet the standards of distribution platforms, festivals, or theaters might require additional resources.

A documentary is 80% complete but lacks the funds to finalize the editing and distribution phase. The filmmakers might seek completion funding from a grant or an investor interested in the subject matter. Once the additional funding is secured, they can finish the project and distribute it to a wider audience.

Completion funding plays a crucial role in ensuring that creative projects can overcome financial obstacles and make it to market successfully.