Crowdfunding changed the way independent films get made. Platforms like Kickstarter gave thousands of filmmakers the chance to bypass studio funding and go directly to fans for support. But even after successful campaigns, one big question remained: how do these films reach a wide audience?

In 2024, a new partnership started answering that question. Kickstarter teamed up with Tubi, a major free streaming service, to bring more than 20 crowdfunded films to global audiences. This collaboration bridges a crucial gap: it takes projects born in grassroots communities and gives them a commercial platform. The significance here isn’t just about exposure. It’s about validating the idea that audience-backed films can live beyond festivals. A film that raised $50,000 from passionate supporters can now earn licensing deals, reach millions of viewers, and attract future investors.

This model matters for another reason: it gives investors confidence. Crowdfunding proves there’s an existing audience. Streaming distribution proves there’s revenue potential. Together, they create a stronger financial case for backing indie films. At The Film Dispatch, we see this as part of our mission. We don’t just want to help films get funded—we want to help them find their long-term homes. By curating films that already resonate with audiences, and connecting them with streaming, licensing, and sales channels, we extend their lifecycle far beyond a festival screening.The future of indie film lies at the intersection of community and commerce. Kickstarter and Tubi showed one path forward. The Film Dispatch intends to build another—where every film has a clear route from vision to audience to return.