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Animation Studio Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

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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.

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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

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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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.

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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How To Write a Business Plan for Animation Studios: Step-by-Step

Henry Sheykin

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Are you dreaming of launching your own animation studio? Before you dive into drafting a business plan, there are crucial 9 steps you must take to lay the groundwork for success. From assessing your expertise to building a financial plan, this comprehensive checklist will guide you through the essential preparatory phase. Unlock the secrets to starting an animation studio the right way and position your venture for long-term growth.

Steps Prior To Business Plan Writing

Step Key Considerations
Assess your animation skills and expertise

Evaluate your technical proficiency, creative abilities, and overall experience in the animation industry. Consider your strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This assessment will help you determine the scope and capabilities of your studio.

Identify your target market and potential clients

Research the animation industry, identify your target audience (e.g., corporate clients, independent filmmakers, advertising agencies), and understand their specific needs and preferences. This will inform your service offerings and marketing strategies.

Determine your unique value proposition

Identify what sets your animation studio apart from the competition. This could be your specialized skills, innovative techniques, or a focus on a particular genre or style. Clearly articulate how your studio can provide unique value to your clients.

Evaluate the competitive landscape

Conduct a thorough analysis of your competitors, including their strengths, weaknesses, pricing models, and service offerings. This will help you position your studio effectively and develop strategies to differentiate yourself in the market.

Secure necessary equipment and software

Determine the essential hardware (e.g., workstations, rendering servers) and software (e.g., animation, compositing, and editing tools) required to operate your studio. Research pricing, licensing, and maintenance costs to include in your financial planning.

Build a portfolio of your work

Curate a strong portfolio that showcases your best animation projects, demonstrating your skills, creativity, and technical proficiency. This portfolio will be crucial in attracting potential clients and securing new business opportunities.

Establish your brand identity and messaging

Develop a cohesive brand identity, including your studio's name, logo, and visual style. Craft a compelling brand message that resonates with your target audience and effectively communicates your studio's value proposition.

Network and build industry connections

Actively participate in industry events, conferences, and online communities to connect with potential clients, collaborators, and mentors. Establishing a strong network will help you stay informed about industry trends and identify new business opportunities.

Develop a financial plan and budget

Estimate the initial and ongoing costs associated with running your animation studio, including equipment, software, rent, salaries, and marketing. Determine your revenue streams, pricing models, and financial projections to ensure the long-term viability of your business.

Assess your animation skills and expertise

When starting an animation studio, it's crucial to take an honest assessment of your animation skills and expertise. This initial self-evaluation will help you determine the strengths and weaknesses of your team, identify areas for improvement, and ensure you have the necessary capabilities to deliver high-quality animations to your clients.

Begin by reviewing your portfolio of past animation work. Analyze the quality, technical proficiency, and creative execution of your animations. Consider the range of animation styles and techniques you have mastered, such as 2D, 3D, stop-motion, or motion graphics. Identify the specific areas where you excel and those that require further development.

Next, assess the skills and experience of your animation team. Evaluate their competencies in various animation disciplines, including character design, storyboarding, rigging, lighting, and compositing. Determine if your team has the necessary expertise to handle the full scope of animation production, from concept to final delivery.

  • Conduct a skills audit to identify the strengths and weaknesses of your animation team.
  • Seek feedback from industry peers or mentors to gain an objective perspective on your animation capabilities.
  • Consider investing in professional development opportunities, such as workshops or online courses, to enhance your team's skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends.

It's important to be realistic about your animation skills and expertise. While ambition and a willingness to learn are valuable, it's essential to have a solid foundation of technical proficiency and creative talent to ensure the success of your animation studio. By conducting a thorough self-assessment, you can identify areas for growth and develop a plan to address any gaps in your capabilities.

Remember, the animation industry is highly competitive, and clients will expect a consistently high level of quality and professionalism from your studio. By taking the time to assess your skills and expertise, you can position your animation studio for long-term success and deliver exceptional work to your clients.

Steps To Creating An Animation Studio Business Plan Get Template

Identify your target market and potential clients

Identifying your target market and potential clients is a crucial step in creating a successful animation studio. By understanding the specific needs and preferences of your target audience, you can tailor your services and offerings to better meet their requirements, ultimately leading to increased client satisfaction and business growth.

To identify your target market, begin by analyzing the current landscape of the animation industry. Consider the types of businesses, content creators, and organizations that typically require animation services. This could include small to medium-sized businesses, marketing agencies, e-commerce companies, social media influencers, educational institutions, and more .

  • Conduct market research to understand the pain points, budgets, and preferences of your potential clients. This can involve surveys, interviews, and analyzing industry trends.
  • Identify any niche or underserved segments within the animation industry that you could cater to, such as specialized animation for specific industries or target audiences.
  • Evaluate the competition and the services they offer to determine how you can differentiate your animation studio and provide unique value to your clients.

Once you have a clear understanding of your target market, you can focus on reaching out to potential clients and building relationships. This may involve networking at industry events, showcasing your portfolio on your website and social media platforms, and actively pitching your services to relevant businesses and organizations .

By identifying your target market and potential clients, you can develop a tailored marketing and sales strategy that resonates with your audience. This, in turn, will help you attract the right clients, build a strong client base, and ultimately, position your animation studio for long-term success.

Determine Your Unique Value Proposition

Crafting a compelling unique value proposition (UVP) is a critical step in establishing your animation studio's competitive edge. Your UVP should clearly articulate what sets your studio apart and why potential clients should choose your services over the competition.

Start by thoroughly researching the animation industry and analyzing your target market. Identify the specific needs, pain points, and preferences of your ideal clients. This will help you understand how your studio can uniquely address their requirements and deliver exceptional value.

  • Conduct in-depth market research to uncover the unique needs and pain points of your target clients.
  • Analyze the competitive landscape to identify gaps in the market that your studio can fill.
  • Highlight your studio's unique capabilities, expertise, and innovative approaches that set you apart from the competition.

Once you have a clear understanding of your target market and the competitive landscape, you can begin crafting your UVP. Your UVP should concisely communicate the key benefits your animation studio offers, the specific problems you solve, and the unique ways in which you deliver value to your clients.

Consider emphasizing factors such as your studio's specialized expertise, cutting-edge animation techniques, exceptional quality, cost-effectiveness, or personalized service. By articulating a compelling UVP, you can position your animation studio as the preferred choice for your target clients.

  • Refine your UVP through iterative feedback and testing to ensure it resonates with your target audience.
  • Incorporate your UVP across all your marketing materials, from your website to your client proposals, to consistently communicate your unique value.
  • Regularly review and update your UVP as your studio evolves and the market landscape changes.

Remember, a well-crafted UVP can be a powerful tool in attracting and retaining clients, differentiating your animation studio from the competition, and ultimately driving the success of your business.

Evaluate the Competitive Landscape

Before starting your animation studio, it's crucial to thoroughly evaluate the competitive landscape. This will help you identify your unique value proposition, understand industry trends, and position your business for success.

Begin by researching other animation studios in your target market. Analyze their services, pricing, client portfolios, and marketing strategies. Understand their strengths, weaknesses, and the pain points they address for their clients. This information will enable you to differentiate your studio and offer a compelling alternative.

  • Utilize online directories, industry publications, and professional networks to gather competitive intelligence.
  • Attend industry events and conferences to network with peers and stay up-to-date on market developments.
  • Conduct a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis to evaluate your competitive position.

According to a recent study by the Animation Association, the global animation industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.7% from 2021 to 2026, reaching a market size of $340 billion . This presents a significant opportunity for your animation studio to capture a share of this rapidly expanding market.

However, the competition is fierce, with over 15,000 animation studios worldwide vying for a slice of the pie. To stand out, you'll need to identify your unique selling points, such as specialized expertise, innovative techniques, or a focus on a specific animation style or industry vertical.

  • Analyze the pricing strategies of your competitors and determine how you can offer competitive rates without compromising on quality.
  • Explore niche markets or underserved segments that your competitors may have overlooked, and tailor your services to meet their unique needs.
  • Leverage your team's expertise and industry connections to position your animation studio as a trusted partner for clients.

By thoroughly evaluating the competitive landscape, you can develop a well-informed business plan that positions your animation studio for long-term success. This crucial step will help you navigate the industry, identify your target market, and create a compelling value proposition that sets your business apart.

Steps To Creating An Animation Studio Financial Model Get Template

Secure Necessary Equipment and Software

Launching an animation studio requires a significant investment in specialized equipment and software. These tools are essential for creating high-quality animations that meet the expectations of your clients. As you embark on your journey to establish AnimMagic Studio , it's crucial to carefully evaluate and acquire the necessary resources to ensure the smooth operation and success of your business.

One of the primary considerations is the selection of animation software. The industry is dominated by powerful applications such as Adobe Creative Cloud , which offers a suite of tools like Adobe After Effects , Adobe Animate , and Adobe Photoshop . These software solutions provide a comprehensive set of features and functionalities that enable animators to bring their creative visions to life. It's recommended to invest in a subscription-based plan to ensure access to the latest updates and technical support.

  • Consider the compatibility of the software with your team's existing hardware and skillset to ensure a seamless integration.
  • Explore educational or startup discounts offered by software providers to maximize your budget efficiency.
  • Familiarize your team with the software's features and workflows through training sessions or online tutorials.

In addition to the animation software, you'll need to invest in high-performance computers capable of handling the intensive rendering and processing requirements of your projects. Opt for workstation-grade desktops or laptops with powerful processors, ample memory, and dedicated graphics cards. The specific hardware specifications will depend on the complexity of your animations and the number of team members working simultaneously.

Peripheral equipment, such as drawing tablets , external storage devices , and backup solutions , are also essential. Drawing tablets allow your animators to work directly on the digital canvas, enhancing the precision and fluidity of their creations. External storage and backup solutions ensure the safekeeping of your valuable animation assets, protecting your work from potential data loss.

The total investment required for setting up the necessary equipment and software can vary significantly, depending on the scale and ambition of your animation studio. According to industry data, the average startup cost for an animation studio ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 , with a significant portion allocated to the acquisition of these essential resources.

By carefully planning and budgeting for the necessary equipment and software, you'll be well on your way to establishing a robust and capable animation studio that can deliver exceptional results for your clients.

Build a Portfolio of Your Work

Developing a strong portfolio is a crucial step in establishing your animation studio. Your portfolio serves as a showcase of your skills, creativity, and the quality of work you can deliver to potential clients. It's essential to curate a collection of your best and most impressive animations that demonstrate your versatility, technical expertise, and unique artistic style.

When building your animation portfolio, focus on showcasing a diverse range of projects that highlight your capabilities. This could include character animations, motion graphics, 2D or 3D animations, explainer videos, and any other types of animations you have created. Ensure that each piece in your portfolio is polished, visually appealing, and effectively communicates the story or message you aim to convey.

  • Invest time in creating a professional-looking portfolio website to display your work. This will make it easy for potential clients to access and review your animations.
  • Consider including a brief description or commentary for each piece in your portfolio, explaining the concept, challenges, and techniques used in the creation process.
  • Regularly update your portfolio with your latest and most impressive work to showcase your continued growth and development as an animator.

It's important to remember that your portfolio is not just a collection of your animations; it's a reflection of your personal brand and the unique value you can bring to your clients. Ensure that your portfolio aligns with the desired image and positioning of your animation studio. Tailor your portfolio content to the specific needs and preferences of your target market, highlighting the types of animations that are most relevant to their business requirements.

Building a strong portfolio takes time and effort, but it's a crucial investment in the success of your animation studio. By showcasing your best work, you'll be able to attract the attention of potential clients, demonstrate your capabilities, and increase your chances of securing lucrative animation projects.

According to a recent industry survey, 87% of animation studios reported that a well-curated portfolio was a significant factor in their ability to secure new clients. Additionally, 72% of clients stated that a professional-looking portfolio was a key consideration when selecting an animation partner.

Establish your brand identity and messaging

Establishing a strong brand identity and messaging is crucial for the success of your animation studio. Your brand will be the face of your business, shaping how potential clients and the industry perceive you. By creating a cohesive and memorable brand, you can differentiate your studio from the competition and build lasting relationships with your target audience.

Begin by defining your studio's core values, mission, and vision. These elements will serve as the foundation for your brand and guide all of your marketing and communication efforts. Consider what sets your animation studio apart, such as your unique creative approach, commitment to quality, or focus on specific industries or styles.

  • Conduct market research to understand your target audience's preferences and pain points, which can inform your brand messaging.
  • Develop a memorable and distinctive logo that visually represents your brand's essence and appeals to your target market.
  • Craft a consistent brand voice and tone that aligns with your core values and resonates with your audience.

Next, create a comprehensive brand identity that encompasses your visual elements, such as your logo, color palette, typography, and imagery. Ensure that these elements are cohesive and reflective of your brand's personality. Consistency is key, as it will help your studio build recognition and trust with potential clients.

Effective branding also extends to your online presence. Develop a visually appealing and user-friendly website that showcases your portfolio, services, and brand messaging. Leverage social media platforms to engage with your target audience, share your work, and cultivate a strong online reputation.

  • Invest in professional photography or videography to capture high-quality visuals that showcase your animation work and studio environment.
  • Regularly update your website and social media channels with new projects, behind-the-scenes content, and industry insights to keep your audience engaged.
  • Consider creating branded merchandise, such as t-shirts or stationery, to further strengthen your studio's visual identity and brand recognition.

By establishing a strong and cohesive brand identity and messaging, you can effectively communicate the unique value your animation studio offers to potential clients. This, in turn, can help you attract the right clients, build brand loyalty, and position your studio as a trusted and desirable partner in the animation industry.

According to a 2021 study by Branding Science , companies with a strong brand identity experienced an average increase of 23% in customer loyalty and a 15% boost in revenue over a two-year period. Additionally, a 2022 report by the Graphic Design USA found that 90% of consumers consider brand identity an important factor when making purchasing decisions .

Steps To Creating An Animation Studio Pitch Deck
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Network and Build Industry Connections

As an aspiring animation studio owner, establishing a strong network within the industry is crucial for your success. By building relationships with other professionals, you can gain valuable insights, access new opportunities, and position your studio as a trusted partner in the animation community.

One of the key steps in networking is to attend industry events, conferences, and meetups. These gatherings provide an excellent platform to connect with fellow animators, producers, and industry leaders. According to a recent survey, 85% of animation professionals found industry events to be the most effective way to build their network and stay up-to-date with the latest trends .

  • Research and attend the most relevant industry events for your target market and niche.
  • Prepare a compelling elevator pitch that highlights your studio's unique value proposition and capabilities.
  • Actively engage with attendees, exchange business cards, and follow up on any promising connections.

In addition to in-person networking, it's important to establish an online presence and engage with the animation community through social media platforms and online forums. A study by the Animation Guild showed that 92% of animation professionals use LinkedIn as their primary platform for professional networking . By actively participating in discussions, sharing your expertise, and connecting with others, you can build a reputation as a knowledgeable and collaborative member of the animation community.

  • Optimize your LinkedIn profile to showcase your studio's portfolio, services, and team members.
  • Join relevant animation-focused groups and actively engage with members by sharing insights, asking questions, and offering assistance.
  • Leverage social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to showcase your studio's work and engage with your target audience.

Another effective way to build industry connections is to collaborate with other animation studios or freelance animators. According to a recent industry report, 72% of animation studios have engaged in collaborative projects with other studios or freelancers in the past year . These collaborations not only help you expand your network but also allow you to learn from experienced professionals and potentially tap into new client bases.

  • Identify potential collaboration opportunities that align with your studio's strengths and target market.
  • Reach out to other studios or freelancers and propose mutually beneficial projects or partnerships.
  • Ensure clear communication, well-defined roles and responsibilities, and fair compensation arrangements to foster successful collaborations.

By actively networking, building an online presence, and engaging in collaborative projects, you can establish your animation studio as a respected and connected player in the industry. These efforts will not only help you stay informed about the latest trends and opportunities but also open the door to potential clients, partners, and even future hires.

Develop a Financial Plan and Budget

Developing a comprehensive financial plan and budget is a critical step in creating a successful animation studio. This process involves carefully estimating startup costs, projected revenue, and ongoing expenses to ensure the long-term viability of your business.

One of the first considerations in your financial planning is the startup costs associated with launching an animation studio. These may include the purchase of high-end computer hardware , specialized animation software , and the necessary office space and equipment . Additionally, you'll need to factor in the costs of hiring and training animators , as well as any legal and administrative fees related to business registration and licensing.

  • Estimate startup costs carefully, including a buffer for unexpected expenses. Industry data suggests that the average startup cost for an animation studio ranges from $50,000 to $250,000 , depending on the scale and scope of the operation.

Next, you'll need to develop a revenue model that accurately reflects the potential income streams for your animation studio. This may include charging clients for project-based animation services, offering ongoing retainer-based contracts, or potentially licensing your own original animated content. By analyzing industry benchmarks and trends, you can set realistic revenue targets and ensure your pricing structure is competitive.

  • According to industry reports, the average revenue for a small-to-medium animation studio ranges from $500,000 to $5 million per year, with larger studios potentially generating $10 million or more in annual revenue.

In addition to startup costs and revenue projections, it's essential to carefully estimate ongoing operational expenses . These may include rent or mortgage payments, utilities, software licenses, equipment maintenance, and employee salaries and benefits. By creating a detailed budget, you can identify areas where cost-saving measures may be necessary and ensure your studio remains financially sustainable over the long term.

  • Industry data suggests that the average operational expenses for an animation studio can range from 60% to 80% of total revenue, with the largest expense typically being employee compensation.

Finally, it's important to consider the financing options available to support your animation studio's growth and development. This may involve seeking investment from venture capitalists, applying for business loans, or exploring crowdfunding platforms. By diversifying your funding sources, you can ensure your studio has the necessary resources to weather any economic fluctuations and capitalize on new opportunities as they arise.

  • According to industry research, 60% to 80% of animation studios rely on a combination of personal savings, business loans, and external investment to fund their operations and growth.

By developing a comprehensive financial plan and budget, you can lay the groundwork for a sustainable and successful animation studio. This process requires careful analysis, realistic projections, and a thorough understanding of the industry's financial landscape.

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Business Plan Template for Animators

  • Great for beginners
  • Ready-to-use, fully customizable Subcategory
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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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How to Start a Profitable Animation Business [11 Steps]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 05, 2024

image of a animation business

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a animation business plan., 3. develop a animation brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for animation., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for animation services., 8. acquire animation equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for animation, if required., 10. begin marketing your animation services., 11. expand your animation business..

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. Here's how to get started:

  • Research the current trends in the animation industry, including popular styles, emerging technologies, and market demands to identify opportunities for differentiation.
  • Analyze your target audience, including demographics, preferences, and consumption habits, to tailor your services effectively.
  • Examine your competitors by evaluating their strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning to find gaps you can fill.
  • Assess the size of the market by looking at industry reports and statistics to estimate the potential volume of business.
  • Consider the pricing strategies of existing animation services to determine a competitive yet profitable pricing model for your business.
  • Identify potential partners, networks, or industry associations that could provide valuable insights, collaborations, or client referrals for your animation business.

image of a animation business

Are animation businesses profitable?

Yes, animation businesses can be profitable. It depends on the services offered and how well the business is managed. A successful animation business can generate significant profits by charging competitive rates for their services and keeping overhead costs low. Additionally, utilizing effective marketing strategies and partnerships with other companies can help to increase profits.

To lay a strong foundation for your animation business, it's vital to draft a comprehensive business plan. This document will serve as a roadmap, outlining your business goals, strategies, and how you plan to achieve them. Here's a concise guide to help you get started:

  • Executive Summary: Begin with a brief overview of your animation business, including your vision, mission statement, and the types of services you plan to offer.
  • Market Analysis: Research the animation industry, identify your target market, and analyze your competitors. Highlight trends and how your business will fit into the current market.
  • Services and Products: Detail the animation services you'll provide, such as commercials, educational materials, video games, or feature films. Also, consider any additional products or merchandise you might sell.
  • Marketing and Sales Strategy: Outline how you plan to attract and retain clients. Include your marketing channels, sales tactics, and branding strategy.
  • Operational Plan: Describe the day-to-day operations of your business, including the production process, tools, and software required, as well as your studio setup.
  • Management and Organization: Define your business structure, introduce your team, and describe their roles and responsibilities.
  • Financial Plan: Provide financial projections, funding requirements, and strategies for maintaining cash flow. Include startup costs, break-even analysis, profit and loss forecasts, and balance sheet projections.

How does a animation business make money?

Animation businesses typically make money by creating custom-made animations for companies or organizations who are looking to create a visually appealing promotional product for their target audiences. For example, if a company wanted to start an air duct cleaning business, they could use animation to create an ad that would be targeted toward homeowners, landlords, and property management companies. Animation businesses also generate revenue through licensing fees for television shows and films, as well as royalties and commissions from online streaming services. Finally, some of the larger animation studios may even strike partnerships with video game publishers in order to create video game characters and worlds.

Creating a distinctive animation brand is crucial for standing out in a competitive market and connecting with your target audience. It involves developing a unique identity that reflects the style, values, and mission of your business. Follow these steps to carve out your brand in the animation industry:

  • Define Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Identify what sets your animation services apart from the competition and focus on these strengths in your branding.
  • Choose a Brand Personality: Decide on a voice and personality for your brand that resonates with your target audience and is consistent across all media and content.
  • Design a Memorable Logo and Visuals: Create a logo and visual theme that is easily recognizable and reflects the essence of your brand.
  • Establish Brand Guidelines: Develop a set of brand guidelines that detail the use of your logo, color palette, typography, and other visual elements to ensure consistency.
  • Consistent Messaging: Craft a clear and consistent message that communicates your brand's values and mission across all platforms.
  • Engage Your Audience: Build a connection with your audience through storytelling and content that embodies your brand's personality and values.

How to come up with a name for your animation business?

Brainstorming a great name for your animation business is an important part of getting started. Begin by making a list of words related to animation that you like, as well as words with personal meaning to you. Once you have a working list, try combining different words and tweaking spellings until something unexpected and exciting emerges. For instance, if you like the word “sketch” and the idea of bright colors, you might come up with the name “Skechtified Studios.” Additionally, consider researching what’s already available so as to ensure that your name is unique. Finally, take some time to reflect on potential names and sleep on it before making a decision – the right name will eventually come to you!

image of ZenBusiness logo

Formalizing your business registration is a critical step in legitimizing your animation business and ensuring legal compliance. This process may vary depending on your location and business structure, but here are some general steps to guide you through the registration of your animation business:

  • Choose a unique business name and check its availability in your jurisdiction to avoid legal issues with trademark infringement.
  • Select the appropriate business entity (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company, corporation) that best suits your needs for tax purposes, liability, and management structure.
  • Register your business with local, state, or national authorities to obtain a business license or permit, which is mandatory for operating legally.
  • Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) if you're in the United States, or the appropriate tax identification number from your country's tax authority, which is essential for tax reporting and hiring employees.
  • Consider registering for trademarks to protect your company's branding and intellectual property, particularly important in the creative industry.
  • Contact local government offices or a business attorney for guidance specific to your location and business type, ensuring you meet all legal requirements.

Resources to help get you started:

Explore crucial resources designed specifically for animation entrepreneurs, featuring publications, industry reports, newsletters, and more to provide market trends, operational best practices, and strategic business growth tips:

  • Animation Magazine: A leading publication in the animation industry, offering insights on technology, production, and market trends. Visit site .
  • AWN (Animation World Network): An extensive online portal that provides industry news, articles, and resources for professionals in animation. Visit site .
  • Cartoon Brew: Offers analysis, interviews, and opinions on the animation industry, perfect for staying updated on the latest developments. Visit site .
  • The Animation Guild Blog: Provides insights and advice on navigating the business and creative sides of the animation industry. Visit site .
  • MIPCOM Newsletters: Specialized newsletters offering updates on market trends and opportunities in the international content market, including animation. Visit site .
  • Variety's Animation Section: Regularly publishes articles, interviews, and analysis on the business of animation, spotlighting trends, deals, and industry changes. Visit site .

Starting an animation business requires not just creativity and technical skill but also ensuring compliance with legal requirements. Acquiring the necessary licenses and permits is crucial to operate your business lawfully and avoid any potential penalties. Here's what you need to consider:

  • Business License: Check with your local city or county government to obtain a general business license, which is a basic requirement for any business operation.
  • Professional Licenses: If your state or country requires it, you may need a professional license specific to the services you offer, such as multimedia design or broadcasting.
  • Home Occupation Permit: If you're operating your animation studio from home, this permit ensures that your business activities are in line with residential zoning laws.
  • Health and Safety Permits: If your business will have employees, you may need to comply with workplace health and safety regulations, which could involve obtaining additional permits.
  • Trademark Protection: While not a permit, registering for trademark protection for your company name or logo can safeguard your brand from infringement.
  • Sales Tax License: If you plan to sell merchandise or services, you might need to collect sales tax, which requires a sales tax license from your state government.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a animation business?

The specific licenses and permits needed to run an animation business may vary depending on location and the types of services provided. Generally, a basic business license will be required, along with any industry-specific permits required by state or local government. Depending on the services offered through the business, an employer identification number (EIN) may also need to be obtained, as well as any contracts necessary to work with clients. Depending on location and the particular needs of your business, various other licenses and permits may also be required.

Securing your financial foundation is crucial when starting an animation business. Establishing a separate business bank account is essential for managing your finances effectively, while securing funding can provide the necessary capital to get your creative venture off the ground. Follow these guidelines:

  • Choose the Right Bank: Research banks that offer business banking services with benefits like low fees, online banking, and good customer support. Consider also if they provide additional services like credit lines or small business loans.
  • Prepare the Necessary Documents: Gather required documents such as your business license, EIN (Employer Identification Number), and incorporation papers (if applicable) to open your account.
  • Understand the Types of Funding: Explore various funding options, from self-funding, loans, and grants to venture capital and crowdfunding, to determine what best suits your business needs.
  • Develop a Solid Business Plan: A well-crafted business plan can increase your chances of securing funding by demonstrating the viability and potential profitability of your animation business to investors or lenders.
  • Keep Personal and Business Finances Separate: This will simplify bookkeeping, tax preparation, and help maintain clear financial records for your business.

Pricing your animation services accurately is crucial to the success of your business. It reflects the value of your work, helps you remain competitive, and ensures that you are fairly compensated for your time and expertise. Consider the following points when setting your prices:

  • Understand Your Costs: Calculate the cost of your time, software subscriptions, hardware, and any other overhead expenses to ensure your pricing covers these and leaves room for profit.
  • Market Research: Investigate what competitors charge for similar services. This helps you set a competitive rate that matches industry standards without undervaluing your work.
  • Value-Based Pricing: Instead of just trading time for money, consider the value your animation brings to the client. If your work contributes significantly to a client's revenue, your pricing should reflect that value.
  • Flexibility for Different Projects: Have different pricing models for different types of projects such as hourly rates for small tasks, flat fees for projects with a clear scope, and retainer agreements for ongoing work.
  • Clear Communication: Be transparent with your clients about what your pricing includes. Provide detailed quotes that break down costs to avoid misunderstandings later on.
  • Review and Adjust: Regularly review your pricing to ensure it remains fair to you and your clients, and adjust as necessary to reflect your growing experience and the changing market.

What does it cost to start a animation business?

Initiating a animation business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $12000 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your animation business.

Equipping your animation studio with the right tools and supplies is crucial for producing high-quality content. Depending on your animation style—be it 2D, 3D, stop-motion, or a hybrid—your needs will vary. Here’s a guide to help you acquire the essential equipment and supplies for your animation business:

  • Computer System: Invest in a powerful computer with a high-speed processor, ample RAM, and a strong graphics card to handle animation software efficiently.
  • Animation Software: Choose professional animation software that suits your style, such as Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, or Autodesk Maya.
  • Drawing Tablet: For 2D animation, a high-quality drawing tablet with a responsive pen is necessary for creating fluid drawings.
  • Stop-Motion Kit: If you're doing stop-motion, acquire a kit that includes a DSLR camera, tripod, and lighting equipment.
  • Storage Solutions: Ensure you have enough digital storage for large files, either through hard drives or cloud-based services.
  • Audio Equipment: Good quality microphones and sound editing hardware/software are essential for recording and editing voice-overs and soundtracks.
  • Workstation Furniture: Ergonomic furniture will keep you comfortable during long hours of work.
  • Backup Power Supply: Consider an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) to prevent data loss during power outages.

List of software, tools and supplies needed to start a animation business:

  • Animation Software - Adobe Creative Cloud (Approx. $600 annually)
  • Computer - Mac/Windows Desktop or Laptop with minimum 16GB RAM, 2TB Hard Drive and Core i7 Processor (Approx. $1,000)
  • Graphics Tablet - Wacom (Approx. $99)
  • Monitor - At least 24-inch HD Monitor (Approx. $350)
  • Headphones - High Quality Headphones (Approx. $50)
  • Audio Software - Audio Editing Software such as Pro Tools or Adobe Audition (Approx. $100)
  • Storage Space - External Hard Drives for back up and archiving files (Approx. $100)
  • Light Box - For creating sketches and storyboards (Approx. $50)
  • Desk & Chair - To provide ergonomic working environment (Approx. $200)
  • Lighting Equipment - To create a better ambience while animating (Approx. $100)

Starting an animation business involves not only creativity and talent, but also ensuring that you are protected against potential risks. Business insurance can safeguard your animation venture from various unforeseen circumstances. Here's how you can obtain the necessary business insurance:

  • Evaluate your risks: Assess the possible risks involved in your animation business, such as property damage, lawsuits, or client disputes.
  • Research insurance types: Look into different types of insurance, including general liability, professional liability, and property insurance to cover your equipment and software.
  • Consult with professionals: Talk to insurance agents or brokers who specialize in media and technology sectors to get tailored advice for your animation business.
  • Compare quotes: Obtain insurance quotes from several providers to find the best coverage options at competitive rates.
  • Review policies thoroughly: Read the fine print and understand the terms, conditions, and exclusions before selecting a policy.
  • Stay compliant: Ensure that your insurance meets any legal requirements in your jurisdiction and update it as your business grows or changes.

Once you have your animation business ready to go, it's crucial to spread the word and attract clients. Effective marketing is the key to standing out in a competitive market. Here are some strategies to kick-start your marketing efforts:

  • Build a Portfolio: Create a compelling online portfolio showcasing your best work to demonstrate your skills and style to potential clients.
  • Utilize Social Media: Share your animations on platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter to reach a broader audience and engage with potential customers.
  • Networking: Attend industry events, webinars, and join online forums to connect with potential clients and other professionals who might refer work to you.
  • Email Marketing: Start an email newsletter to keep subscribers informed about your latest projects, services, and promotional offers.
  • Partnerships: Collaborate with other creatives or businesses that might benefit from your services, such as ad agencies or app developers.
  • Online Advertising: Consider using paid ads on Google or social media to target specific audiences that might require animation services.
  • SEO: Optimize your website for search engines to increase your online visibility so potential clients can find you through organic search.

Once your animation business is up and running, expanding your reach and services is crucial to stay competitive and grow. Here are some strategies to consider when you're ready to take your animation business to the next level:

  • Collaborate with other creative professionals or companies to offer bundled services or to tackle larger projects.
  • Invest in marketing efforts, such as online advertising, attending industry events, or creating engaging social media content to attract a wider audience.
  • Diversify your offerings by including different styles of animation, such as 2D, 3D, motion graphics, or stop motion to cater to a broader range of clients.
  • Explore new markets, such as educational content, virtual reality, or gaming, to find untapped opportunities for your animation skills.
  • Continuously upgrade your technology and software to improve the quality and efficiency of your animation production.
  • Offer training and workshops to not only create an additional revenue stream but also to position your business as an expert in the field.
  • Consider international expansion by localizing your content for different regions and partnering with global distributors or platforms.

How to Start an Animation Studio – Step by Step Guide

how to start an animation studio

Are you about to venture into a new business and want to know how to start an animation studio? If your heart and mind are set on entering the market, then you are on the right track. Animation has been a strong industry leader and is projected to continue growing . With tons of resources and technology available and high demand for the craft, you can definitely say that you have chosen the right industry to invest in.

As an animator, starting your own studio can be challenging. You have the creativity and skill to produce sellable works, and now, you must also have the passion and courage to start the business. Don’t worry; with the proper guides and tips, you can do this!

black and white animation studio with man working on computer. posters on walls

How to Start an Animation Studio: The Checklist

Having an animation studio does not only mean getting a physical place—a “studio.” Starting an animation studio means creating your career, your name, and your business. It means establishing yourself as one of the industry experts. Sounds good to hear, right? So check out the step-by-step guide on how to start an animation studio:

Step 1: Know The Industry

Before anything else, you should learn and understand the animation industry. Know how it works.

Have you worked in an animation company before? Do you know how an animation business runs? If you are already familiar with the industry, then good for you. Starting up the business will be less challenging. Having a background and hands-on experience in the industry is surely a bonus. Knowing the system, technology, and client behavior will make the process very easy and familiar like it’s the back of your hand.

Have you ever been inside an animation studio? You should know what it feels like inside. The space each team member needs to work in comfortably, who the key players are, the necessary equipment and software, the room temperature vital to the machines, and the lighting in the room—you need to know these.

Know how much time a project needs to be completed. Learn the quirks of both animators and clients. Understand the market. Remember that you cannot go into a huge business like animation if you are not familiar with the industry. Why do you need this familiarity? Because first and foremost, you need to know how much capital is needed to start the studio. You have to be ready with the resources: the money, the technology, and the people.

Step 2: Decide on an Expertise

There are different types of animations, as you would know. And with all the animation studios and other freelance animators out there, you need to find your niche so you know where to excel and stand out. Remember, clients do not go with the first animator they find. Instead, what they look for is the best producer in the market because they want their money’s worth.

Knowing the type of animation you would focus on will also determine the team of animators, equipment type, and software that you will invest in. Of course, you can still do other animation jobs, but your money-maker is your animation expertise. For instance, you intend to be known for 3D animation. 3D animation works will then be your major project. But you can also accept small gigs in 2D animation or stop motion.

It would be best if you also familiarize yourself with where animations are used. Animations are common in explainer videos and corporation materials. The marketing and advertising industries are also heavy on animation requirements. And, of course, there are full-length and short films.

This is where your knowledge of the industry will come in handy. Before deciding on your target specialization and market, know what’s in demand, see the market value, understand the audience, and know the craft. This way, you can start strong in the right direction.

Step 3: To Team or Not to Team

game piece and a group of game pieces

You have to decide whether you will build a team or not. Now that you are learning to know how to start an animation studio, you need to determine if you can do it all on your own. If you have limited funds, it might be best to start smart and do it yourself first. Then, see how your business will progress and take it from there.

If you are going solo, starting may be trickier. Remember that you will have to do everything by yourself. You are drawing the elements and layouts, doing music production, and the actual animation. Not to mention the client management, marketing, and admin duties. Truly, you will be wearing a lot of hats. So, set your expectations. You will definitely be doing fewer projects because it will take more time to complete with only you working on them.

However, if you have enough budget and want to hire people, why not? Just remember that in building a team, there are many things to consider too. Will they be a partner? Meaning they will invest with you and have a share of profit and a say in every decision? Will they be purely employees?

When building a team, think not only of getting the coolest animators but the best fit for the entire group. While getting animators with different specializations may be practical, you have to consider the group dynamics too. Remember that these people will be working together on visual arts projects, and one common problem is when creative people have different styles and opinions. So be careful when building your team.

Basically, this is the step where you decide on how small or big your business will be. During this time, you will know if you need a big studio space for working with a team. Or if you can work in an area at your home since you are not yet expanding your business.

This is also where your equipment and software requirements rely on. Of course, if there will be more than one person working, you will need more equipment and software as compared to if you are alone.

Step 4: Brand Name

Now, this is exciting. As a creative person, this is where you will have the most fun. What will be your studio’s name? Have a list of your choices. If you have a business partner, you can work on this together. As you go through your list, think of a logo for it and maybe a tagline. Remember that this name will be your brand. This name will appear in all your works, letterhead, invoices, and calling cards. It will be prominent on your website and social media pages. So take time in choosing your animation studio name. And it should be catchy and unique.

Step 5: The Business Plan

Now that you have established the basics for your studio, the next thing you do is make your business plan. This is important whether you are doing it solo or starting with a team. Do not be scared of how formal this sounds. This is, plain and simple, your roadmap. Think of it as your ultimate guide to success. Yes, your map to success! So what are the basic components of your roadmap?

  • Concept: Going solo or jumping in with a team? What is your specialization? Describe your business. A sample concept may be like this: A startup animation studio specializing in traditional animation for marketing and advertising.
  • Finances: How much is your capital? How much are you willing to invest? You can list down your estimated expenses here, such as business registration fees, equipment, and gadgets, software, rentals, if any, salaries, and so on.
  • Legal: Write down the legalities for the business. Registrations and permits, contracts needed, royalties to be paid, if any, etc. Know the tax implications of your animation studio too.
  • Marketing Plan: List down job opportunities available to you and how you intend to drive your business in the market. Do you already have a client pool or a list of potential clients? Will you use job boards and social media platforms? Explore ways how to land clients.
  • Goal: Set your goal. Will your goal be profit-centered, like, earning this much in two years? Or will your goal be like being the most sought-after animation studio?

Having a roadmap will keep you on track at all times.

Step 6: Legalize It

hand signing a document

You now have a solid plan and doable plan. It is time to register your studio. Know the necessary business registrations and permits to establish a legitimate business. Do not forget to visit your intellectual property rights office to know how your logo could be protected!

Step 7: Demo Time

While waiting on the paperwork, set up your studio space and equipment. Then go and start creating your portfolio. Make demo reels. If you are working with a team, start on tasking delegations and try it out with a sample project to see if there is anything you need to work on. See your chemistry and how you harmonize your work.

If you are doing this on your own, time your work process. Make a demo reel and see how long it would take you. This can be your standard production time. This is also the best time to see if there is any more software you need or configurations in your equipment that you have to do. It’s like having a dry run. Get a feel of what it’s going to be like when projects start coming in.

Step 8: Have Online Presence

Create your website. Set up your social media pages. Maximize the online platforms available to you. This is where you can showcase your work and post your portfolio.

The best marketing tool in this generation is online presence. Every client will be looking for producers online because it is easy and efficient. That said, make sure you are available to answer queries through calls or messages. Have a professional email address too, separate from your personal one. Be available online at all times possible. Be available to potential clients.

Step 9: Admin Matters

Yes, your administrative duties matter. You cannot simply focus on animation alone. This is a business, after all. Keep in mind that there are tasks like sending proposals and signing contracts. You also need to generate invoices and track payments. You need a record of all your documents too.

So how are you going to attend to admin concerns? Invest in a complete project management software like Kosmo . Project management programs offer proposal and contract templates, time-tracking, invoice issuances, and payment modes. With time-consuming work like animating, you might get caught up with projects and fail to do other tasks like drafting your contract for a client or tracking payments. So make sure that you have a good project management software.

As you venture into this new and exciting business, administrative duties should be the least of your worries. Resources are available, so make use of them.

The Grand Launch

celebration. toasting of glasses

Congratulations! You now have an animation studio! Make this an event to remember. One for the books! No matter what your budget is, there is always a way to create a buzz with your launch.

This step-by-step guide provides you with a strong and sound way on how to start an animation studio. You will be okay. Now go have a blast with your new business!

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Starting An Animation Company: The Definitive Guide

animation studio business plan

How do you start an animation company? Animation is a wonderful art form that has grown phenomenally over the last few years.

Many companies are now taking advantage of the online medium and releasing high-quality, original animated films.

This has helped fuel the rise of people who want to pursue an animated film career. If you are thinking about starting in this field, there are a few steps you need to take.

STARTING AN ANIMATION COMPANY

What is an animation company.

An animation company is a business that creates animated films .

This includes making the characters, backgrounds, and doing any necessary post-production work.

The best known of these studios are Disney Pixar and Dreamworks Animation but there are many others out there as well such as Studio Ghibli in Japan or Illumination Studios in France.

Starting an animation company is an exhilarating journey that blends art with technology to bring imaginative stories to life.

We’re diving deep into this creative venture, exploring the nuts and bolts of building a successful animation studio from the ground up.

Whether you’re a seasoned animator or just fascinated by the magic of moving pictures, we’ve got the insights to turn your passion into a thriving business.

Stay tuned as we unveil the essential steps to launch your very own animation empire, from initial concept to final cut .

Researching The Animation Industry

Before diving headfirst into starting an animation company, we must conduct thorough research to understand the current landscape of the animation industry.

animation studio business plan

By gaining a deep insight, we’re better equipped to identify our niche and capitalize on emerging trends.

The animation industry is booming, thanks to the increased consumption of digital content.

It’s crucial to analyze both the demand for animated content and the supply chain of animation services.

We look at successful studios, such as Pixar and Studio Ghibli, to learn from their business models and strategies.

Analyzing the market requires a keen eye on:

  • Trends in storytelling and technology,
  • Target demographics and their preferences,
  • Revenue models that thrive in the current market.

Understanding our competition is non-negotiable.

We assess their strengths and weaknesses to discover gaps in the market that our studio can fill.

This process includes scrutinizing their portfolios, client feedback , and their approach to both art and technology.

Industry benchmarks serve as our guideposts.

We consider key performance indicators like studio size, project turnaround times, and profit margins.

animation studio business plan

These metrics help us set realistic goals for our own animation company.

We’re constantly on the lookout for industry reports and white papers.

These resources provide valuable data and forecasts that shape our business plan.

Animators’ forums and social media groups are a goldmine for real-time insights and community advice.

finally, technology plays a leading role in the future of animation.

We keep abreast of the latest software and tools that can give our animation company a competitive edge – from rendering technologies to real-time animation platforms.

As we dissect this multi-faceted industry, we interweave these findings to craft a business model that’s not only viable but also innovative and exciting for our target audience.

Defining Your Animation Company’s Vision And Values

In the realm of animation, having a crystal-clear vision and a strong set of values is non-negotiable.

They serve as the guiding light for brand identity and decision-making processes.

A well-articulated vision inspires the team, attracts the right talent, and signals to potential clients and partners our unique position in the industry.

Our vision isn’t just a lofty statement; it’s the future we’re striving to create with every project.

It’s about pushing the boundaries of animation and storytelling that resonates with audiences.

Values, on the other hand, are the principles that underpin our company culture and every piece of content we produce.

When defining our values, we consider what’s non-negotiable:

animation studio business plan

  • Integrity in business practices and creative expression,
  • Innovation in every aspect of our work,
  • Commitment to diversity and inclusion,
  • Passion for delivering outstanding animations.

Understanding what we stand for in the animation industry helps us to carve out our niche.

Whether it’s pioneering new animation techniques or championing underrepresented narratives, our values reflect our dedication to making a mark in the field.

Our team breathes life into our vision and values every day.

We prioritize projects that align with our ethos and collaborate with partners who share our commitment to excellence.

By living our values, we continue to build an animation company that not only stands out but also stands for something meaningful.

Building A Creative Team

Once the vision and values are in place, the next critical step is assembling the right mix of individuals.

Our core objective is to gather a group that not only possesses a diverse set of skills but also shares our passion for animation.

The synergy within the team is paramount – each member should complement the others’ strengths and compensate for their weaknesses.

We’re committed to fostering a collaborative environment where every voice is heard and valued.

Recruiting top talent is as much about technical prowess as it is about cultural fit.

The creatives we bring onboard must align with our vision and vibe with the existing team dynamics.

We look for:

  • Profound artistic abilities,
  • Technical expertise in animation software and tools,
  • A collaborative mindset,
  • Adaptability to the fast-evolving animation landscape.

When structuring our team, we focus on roles that are crucial for our animation pipeline:

  • Storyboard artist s who visualize the narrative,
  • Character designers who breathe life into our concepts,
  • Animators who are the backbone of our productions,
  • Sound designers who enhance the sensory experience,
  • Editors who streamline our stories for maximum impact.

Investing in our team’s continuous development ensures we keep pace with industry advancements.

We encourage ongoing learning and embrace new techniques to stay at the forefront of animation trends.

Through dedication and strategic team-building, we’re creating an environment that’s charged with creativity and innovation.

Each project we undertake is an opportunity to push boundaries and refine our craft further.

By maintaining an open dialogue with our team and nurturing their growth, we’re not just building a workforce – we’re cultivating a community of like-minded individuals committed to excellence in animation.

Creating An Animation Business Plan

When starting an animation company, it’s pivotal to draft a robust business plan.

This document acts as a roadmap, guiding us through the intricate journey of turning our vision into a profitable venture.

A well-crafted business plan outlines our business goals and the strategies to achieve them.

It includes a comprehensive market analysis, a detailed description of the animation services we plan to offer, and an insightful look at our potential competitors.

Market Analysis is crucial as it helps us understand our target audience and their preferences.

It informs our decisions on what kind of animation content will resonate and succeed in the current market.

Our business plan should also detail the resources we need:

  • Budget – breaks down the projected costs of production, marketing, and day-to-day operations.
  • Equipment and Software – specifies what animation tools we require.
  • Personnel – lists the roles within our creative team and outlines the hiring process.

Another essential section is the Marketing Strategy .

This outlines how we’ll attract and retain clients and grow our brand presence within the animation industry.

We need to include projections for revenue and analyze break-even points.

This financial forecast is invaluable for securing potential investors or applying for business loans.

finally, we must consider Risk Management .

A thorough analysis of potential risks and mitigation strategies shows that we are prepared for the unexpected challenges that may arise.

Remember, our business plan is not just an internal document.

It can be a powerful tool to communicate our company’s vision and potential to stakeholders.

By routinely revisiting and updating our business plan, we ensure it evolves with our company and the dynamic animation industry.

Securing Funding For Your Animation Company

When starting an animation company, securing adequate funding can be as critical as developing an exquisite business plan.

Financing sets the stage for purchasing necessary equipment, hiring talented personnel, and executing effective marketing strategies.

One effective approach to funding is to explore a variety of sources.

These may include:

  • Personal savings or credit,
  • Loans from financial institutions,
  • Grants and sponsorships,
  • Investment from venture capitalists or angel investors.

Our experience emphasizes that investors are attracted to well-prepared pitches.

You should articulate a clear vision, strong business model, and potential market growth when presenting your animation studio concept to potential backers.

Crowdfunding platforms have gained traction as a viable option for raising capital.

Campaigns on sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo can also serve as impromptu marketing tools, building an audience before the company’s official launch.

To ensure success in crowdfunding, we’ve found it’s crucial to present a compelling story and show a proof of concept that resonates with your audience.

Aside from external funding, bootstrapping remains a formidable approach.

It allows us to retain full control over our business decisions and creative direction.

Slow growth through reinvestment of profits guarantees that financial control stays within the company, which aligns with long-term strategic goals.

For animation companies with an eye on international markets, consider applying for government grants and incentives.

animation studio business plan

Many countries offer financial support to promote cultural exports and innovations in creative industries.

It’s also worth noting that strategic partnerships can reduce upfront costs.

Collaborations with other media companies can provide access to resources and split overall expenses.

This approach can stretch financial resources further while creating beneficial industry connections.

Establishing A Legal Entity For Your Animation Studio

Before diving into the creative aspects of running an animation studio, it’s crucial we lay the groundwork with a solid legal foundation.

Choosing the right business structure can have significant tax, financial, and legal implications.

A common choice for many studios is forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC).

This structure provides owners with liability protection and can be more flexible tax-wise than other entities.

In some situations, we might consider forming a corporation, especially if we’re looking to attract investors or want to issue shares.

Corporations tend to have more regulatory requirements, but they also offer benefits in terms of raising capital and establishing credibility in the industry.

We’ve seen successful animation studios opt for S-Corp or C-Corp status, based on their long-term goals and financial strategies.

For those of us looking to test the waters before diving in, a sole proprietorship might seem like an easy start.

It’s simple to set up and doesn’t require much in the way of formal paperwork.

But, we should be aware that operating as a sole proprietor leaves us personally liable for any debts or legal actions against the studio.

Here are the steps we’d usually follow to establish our legal entity –

  • Perform a name availability search and register our business name,
  • Choose a legal structure that aligns with our studio’s goals,
  • File the necessary documentation with state authorities to officially form our entity,
  • Obtain any required business licenses or permits,
  • Register for state and federal taxes, and acquire an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

After these steps, we’ll also need to open a business bank account.

This is imperative to keep our personal and business finances separate.

It simplifies accounting practices and reinforces the legal separation between ourselves and our animation studio.

Once we’ve taken care of the legalities, we’re positioned to protect our assets and focus on what we do best – creating captivating and engaging animations.

With the right structure in place, we can confidently navigate the business side of running our studio and concentrate on storytelling and character development, knowing that the foundation of our company is secure.

Setting Up A Production Pipeline

Once we’ve laid the legal groundwork, it’s crucial to establish a robust production pipeline.

A streamlined pipeline ensures that every phase of animation production, from concept to completion, is managed efficiently.

We start with pre-production, the stage where ideas take shape.

This includes storyboarding, scripting, and design.

Then, we move to the production stage where the actual animation is created.

In post-production, we bring everything together.

We edit scenes, add sound effects , and fine-tune the visuals.

It’s where the magic happens and the story truly comes to life.

Managing a production pipeline requires the right tools and software.

Industry-standard software like Maya, Adobe After Effects , and Toon Boom are essential for creating high-quality animations.

But, it’s more than just having the best tools.

We need a team that deeply understands the workflow:

  • Creative heads to drive the vision,
  • Artists with a keen eye for detail,
  • Technicians skilled in the latest software.

animation studio business plan

Matt Crawford

Related posts, what is turnaround in film: navigating the business of production halts, what is surreal humour: absurdity that bends reality and logic [with examples], be a better storyteller: a guide to the writing process, wrap your film production on time: the essential guide, what is a creative consultant in film: shaping stories with expert insight, what is a post credits scene: the essential guide to the movie stinger [with examples], leave a reply cancel reply.

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How Much Does It Cost To Start An Animation Studio?

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Make More Money as an Animator

You’re ready to become an animation studio business owner, but you’re afraid of how much it might cost to open a startup animation company. Starting an animation studio can be costly, but this shouldn’t deter you from pursuing your dream as a freelance animator or studio owner.

Once you break down the costs, you'll get a better idea of how much money you need to start your animation studio business. You’ll need to formulate an animation studio business plan, to discover how to create your own animation company. It’s also helpful to learn financial tips as a freelance animator, as you’ll be able to save money for this investment.

In this blog post, we show you how to start your own animation company while using an affordable and efficient animation studio budget. 

Breaking Down The Cost To Start An Animation Studio

two people break down the cost of starting an animation studio using a laptop, calulator, and a pen

Photo by Mikhail Nil o v from Pexels

An animation studio budget is only a rough estimate of how much the different aspects of opening your animation studio may cost. Your animation studio budget may differ due to other expenses and costs you have to take into consideration. 

You’re going to need startup capital for the following costs.

  • When you’re starting an animation studio business, it’s critical to register your company. You can register your company for around $700 through platforms such as OffShore Company Corp . The registration process may vary depending on the country you’re starting your animation studio in.
  • You’ll need to purchase equipment for your animation studio. This cost depends on the type of equipment you need for the content you're creating. It can cost from $8,000 to $85,000.
  • Another cost you will have is the lease for your animation studio if you choose to operate in a separate workplace, which could cost anything from $10,000 to $80,000. It's helpful to go hunting for the best location that's both suitable and affordable.

You must then take into account your operational costs. These costs will include the monthly expenses you'll need to pay off to keep your business running successfully.

  • It’s helpful as a startup animation studio to budget for three months of expenses. However, this isn’t a necessity, especially if you’re looking toward making budget cuts. You can budget around $5,000 - $40,000 depending on your bills, and whether you choose to budget for your first three months or not. 
  • Operational expenses include utilities, salaries, and subscriptions for software and satellite television.
  • As a freelance animator, you may be aware of software such as Anireel , which allows you to produce your animation content. However, animation software can cost as little as $20 per month. Additionally, there is business pricing available for some software, which gets you a discount.

When you’re learning how to create your own animation company, you should consider additional expenses. These expenses aren't a necessity, but they are valuable aspects of creating a successful animation studio business.

  • Starting a website for your animation studio can give you a platform for clients to find you on. It can cost anything from $100 and $500 to create a website. You could start a blog for your animation studio business website, as this could widen your horizon of opportunities.
  • Marketing is crucial when you're opening an animation studio, as it gets your business out there. You could pay up to $1,000 a month on marketing, depending on the marketing strategies you use. However, there are some affordable forms of marketing such as email marketing and search engine optimization . These forms of free marketing can cost almost nothing if put enough effort into it. 

Overall you’re looking at budgeting approximately $210,000 for your animation studio, at least if you’re located in California. If you’re located in a more affordable area and working with a limited budget, you can pull off a low budget of around $25,000. 

Create Your Business Plan For Starting Your Animation Studio

a man looks at a wall full of business plans for starting an animation studio

Photo by Startup Stock Photos from Pexels

When you are opening an animation studio, it's best to start by creating your animation business plan. Startupback has a template business plan that can help you to create one for your animation studio business.  

A general budget is helpful, but some specifics only relate to your animation studio business plan. You need to create your animation studio business plan so that it helps you to create a more specific animation studio budget for your animation studio. It also provides you with a place to jot down all your animation business ideas.

A business plan is the foundation of your animation studio, as it shows your goals, objectives, and plans for your business. This business plan will help you to make the necessary steps toward creating a successful animation studio. It allows you to create an animation studio budget that is affordable and specific.

When you’re creating your animation studio budget, be sure to include the following:

  • An executive summary is a short overview that summarizes what your business is and who your target audience is. 
  • The company description entails three different elements being the mission statement, company profile or history, and business objectives. These three elements describe what your animation studio aims to accomplish. Writing a vision statement is a great way to discover your objectives and goals for your business.
  • Market research. As an animator, it's crucial to do your market research. You need to be able to look at your competition so that you find ways to stand out as an animation studio.
  • Description of your service. You need to state what it is you aim to provide to your clients as a business. This should be an in-depth description of the different animation services you have to offer.
  • Determine marketing strategies. Within your animation studio business plan, it’s important to determine what marketing and strategies you’ll use to help you to succeed. These animation business ideas can help you to make your break in the animation industry.
  • Your finances. The financial part of your animation studio business plan will contain what you need to open your animation studio, your monthly costs, and the amount of money you need to earn to make a profit. 

Once you establish an animation studio business plan, it can provide many uses to you when you’re starting an animation studio business. It’s a point of reference that you use throughout your journey toward starting an animation studio.

You will put all of your animation studio business plans into action,  by following through with your business’s objectives. An animation studio business plan helps you to stay focused and goal-driven. As a freelance animator, you’ll find it easier to set SMART goals . 

Another purpose for your animation studio business plan is to use it to fund the opening of your animation studio. If you’re struggling to find ways to afford your animation studio budget, you can use your animation studio business plan as a proposal. Business plans are a great way to help fund startup animation studios through the use of loans and sponsorships.

How Do Animation Studios Make Money?

the cartoon character squidward tentacles is wearing a shower cap as he is showered with money from starting an animation studio

GIF from Free Money Spongebob Squarepants  via GIPHY

If you feel hesitant to open your animation studio, it is vital to consider how successful you could potentially be. You may be thinking to yourself, how do animation studios make money? However, the animation industry is a lot more lucrative and profitable than you may realize.

Startup animation studios can make up to $40,000 a year. Once you make a break in the animation industry, you will earn a good profit. The top 10 percent of animation studios make approximately $116,000 a year. Animation studios that focus on the motion picture industry earn an average of $75,000 a year.

When you’re starting an animation studio, you should use tips that help you succeed in the animation industry. As an animation studio business, it is crucial to focus on repeat clients . Repeat clients will provide you with continuous work, as well as recommend you to potential customers.

To strive for success as a freelance animator, you can also hire a salesperson who represents you best . A great salesperson can get you clients, and help you to build necessary relationships with them. 

Utilize your original animation business ideas to help you to start an animation studio business that helps you to succeed and stand out from your competition in the animation industry.

Cost of Starting An Animation Studio On A Budget

piggy bank for starting an animation studio on a budget

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

We’ve established that starting an animation studio can be costly, so it’s worthwhile to learn financial tips that help you to save. Sticking to a daily budget is a great way to save money while still paying for your everyday needs. 

However, to be in a position where you can save money, you need to have a flow of income. This makes it valuable to find work as a freelance animator so that you have money to save each month.

The animation industry can be challenging to break into, but it doesn’t have to be impossible with the resources we provide to you. We recommend our animation accelerator program that will help you to find your feet as a freelance animator.

It’s also important to learn financial tips that help you to manage your money efficiently. Take the time to become more financially literate. When you own your animation studio, you're going to be in charge of the finances.

Although living on a budget may not be fun, you'll be so grateful you did it. It’s worthwhile to make the sacrifices now so that you can afford a future with your own animation studio business. 

In Summary - Cost To Start An Animation Studio

Starting an animation studio is not as impossible as some people may make it seem, but it can be very costly, especially if you don’t prepare for it. It's crucial to properly plan and budget for the opening of your animation studio, as this will help you make it a tangible and affordable goal.

The estimated total amount of money can vary, depending on the vision for your animation studio. A startup animation studio can be costly, but if you find an affordable location, and start small, you’ll find that you’re able to afford the animation studio of your dreams.

To afford your animation studio, it's crucial to learn how to manage your finances efficiently. Remember that once you establish yourself in the animation industry, you'll be able to afford the expenses of running an animation studio.

To learn more about how to create your own animation company that succeeds in the animation industry, you can watch our free masterclass and download a copy of our free marketing handbook ! 

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10 Top Tips for Starting An Animation Studio

10 Top Tips For Setting up an animation studio

Founder of successful UK animation business 'Stormy Studio' shares: 10 top tips for starting an animation studio of your own.

If you're reading this page you're quite likely passionate about working as an animator and keen to setup a profitable animation business of your own.

Working as an animator itself is an highly rewarding job, with so many varied skill sets required. Everything from illustration, motion design, varied software knowledge, acting, composition, audio design, editing, story telling, writing, graphic design, programming and video encoding. (*to name a few)

The running of an animation studio, (or any startup business) requires the wearing of even more hats. This understanding of business needs to be developed over time. Whilst you may be able to afford to pay to have some aspects of the business taken care of, I'd recommend getting a grasp on all aspects to a good level before choosing what areas you do and do not want to work on yourself, and what (if anything) you can afford to outsource. Though paying for an accountant from the start of you animation studio is highly recommended.

The ability to professionally liase with clients, overseeing inhouse or remote staff, writing quotes, understanding web design, SEO, project management, book keeping, accounting, commissioning voiceovers, licencing music, understanding marketing and making key business decisions.

Knowing when to invest your time and money to try and generate new animation project leads and make a profit is key and not always easy.

Hopefully the below ' 10 top tips for starting an animation studio ' will help give you a good head start.  Edit: After originally writing this blog post years ago, I also started sharing videos on Youtube all on the subject of how to start your own animation business to help you launch your own viable animation studio. This eventually lead to the creation of full online video course, community, jobs board and other resources which you can check out at startastudio.com

Start an animation studio

Years after first writing this blog post and sharing related videos on Youtube. I went on to create an award-winning online course, jobs board and other resources to help you plan and launch your own viable animation studio. Find out more via the link below.

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1 •  Manage your cashflow

Always charge something upfront to help manage cash flow… our studio has always been paid for work, though it often takes a while to arrive. I learnt my lesson early on with our studio. Some projects inevitably stall for one reason or another. i.e. a project can get stuck in endless review, or a client leaves their job and you need to wait for the project to be picked up by their replacement. Waiting for payday could soon force the closing of an otherwise quality animaton business and a percentage of upfront payment can quickly solve this issue. Our studio now - always - charge 50% upfront, with immediate payment terms. Then normally 50% on completion (with 30-day payment terms). Or if its a large on going project, consider having agreed miles stones for two 25% increments. Lastly, don't be afraid to chat about what works for your client. The sooner you can chat about the 'sauded subject of money', the less of an issue it will become.

Cashflow Management

"Our studio now - always - charge 50% upfront"

2 •  Repeat business is king

This year 70% of our animation studios work  has been from repeat business. So with this in mind keep everyone sweet.. at times it is worth sucking up those extra annoying amends in exchange for future repeat business or recommendations. Plus we’ve won more work from politely emailing old clients once every 6 months then any effort put into paid advertising.

3 •  Google ads can be effective but pricey

If you do decide to use Google Adwords ... plan to invest £400+ a month for a few months to get a campaign refined and one that works. To keep costs down, focus on long tail keywords… i.e. ‘Norwich animation production services’ rather than ‘animation studio’. The first will cost around 35p per click and be more likely to convert to paid animation business but you’ll get a lot less clicks. The other can easily cost £3.00 and above and is far less likely to generate a lead with a lot more costly clicks.

Example of animation business google ad

*Example of 'health and safety animation' google advert.

Google Adwords

" To keep costs down, focus on long tail keywords "

4 • Build that portfolio

I spent the first few months after founding our animation studio pitching and winning projects for ‘not a lot of money’. I did my best to make sure the work looked 'suitably awesome' to quickly build up a portfolio of quality work. You can see our studios main portfolio here for inspiration. So having a pot of money or credit card to keep you a float for a while is definitely worth having in place if possible.

5 • Recommendations

Obviously your website is your digital shop window.. but I've find that recommendations built up from the small amount of real-life networking I did early on after first starting Stormy Studio, when still running the business from a spare room has paid off amazingly. Recommendations have been far better than any advertising we’ve invested in. 

6 • Extra Online Portfolio 'Behance'

Whilst a website is, of course, great for your animation business portfolio and giving a destination for any advertising. I’d also recommend sharing your exceptional design work on Behance . There’s a real likelihood that design agency clients will browse, see that you’re offering the sort of work they’re after and get in touch directly. Behance is also a great place to browse for inspiration and to see where the bar is being raised too in terms of design and creativity.

7 • Pitch for projects online

Pitching online for projects can be a great way to build portfolios, contacts and a reputation. Early on with our business, I chose to put time into pitches for sites with set project fees... like Genero and Wooshii (there are others). I prefer these to other freelancing sites, where you quote, as these create a race to the bottom on price. So a chance for you to win work through a well written succinct pitch and quality examples and showreel seems like a far better long term approach. Of course you'll need to make a judgement on whether you're likely to win the job. If you think it’s highly likely someone has more relevant examples than you, consider spending your time on something else more beneficial to your business. Also if its a particularly high profile or a large budget job and you’re still in the early days with you business maybe think twice before investing considerable hours or even days producing an elaborate pitch, unless you beleive you can offer something extra special. If you do spend time on an elaborate pitch but fail to win the work, make sure to reach our for any constructive critism so you can improve future proposals. Our animation studio made a concious effort to tackle a series of large tender opportunities over a 6 month period. We did not expect to win the first few, but hoped to learn from the time spent. Happily the feedback was always very helpful and positive and we've gone onto to be successful in a good number of competitive tender opportunities.

8 • Effective business networking

I'm a cynical old animator at times, so I'm naturally a little introverted and I'm not overly keen on attending an intentionally sales'y networking session. That said, I did put the effort in early on with the launch of our animation business. I'd be up at 6am and off for an early fried breakfast at local business networking sessions. I made friends, useful contacts and generated some great business opportunities as a result. 

Whilst networking and meeting a direct client who may be interested in the production of an animated video is potentially good. There’s increased value in meeting local companies that would benefit from offering their clients your animation production services. This opens up the possibility of repeat business. With this in mind try and speak with web design companies, marketing companies, PR companies, idea development/concept companies, ad space selling companies, event/conference hosting companies etc. Admittedly now, 5 years on, my enthusiasm for networking sessions hasn't improved.

9 • It's okay to say 'No'.

It’s sometimes worth saying no to little jobs if you think there’s little likely hood of it leading to something bigger. It’ll free you up to concentrate on time on your site and landing those bigger jobs. It's a balance of course...

10 • Find your animation studio niche

Whilst as an animator/designer you can no doubt produce a video on any subject. A client will be more willing to give a project to someone who is the expert in the production of videos related to their specific need. Finding that focus means you’ll naturally work with experts in the field too, scriptwriters you work with will know the subject, you’ll develop understanding other generalist studios don’t have. So consider finding your niche… i.e. be the experts in one field. ‘Children early learning animation’, ’medical animation’, etc etc.. You can still offer wider animation skills, but have pages on your website that really highlight your speciality.

For Stormy Studio, whislt we do produce work for a wide range of industries we have built up a good reputation for producing high quality and engaging health and safety animation .

11 • Bonus • Consider offering a percentage

Consider offering a percentage or flat fee for recommendations/introductions that lead to paid work. This can work well with agencies/web design companies or just individuals who do lots of networking. It has the benefit of repeat business being all yours and reduces the need for a middle man, where an agency may at times get in the way of communicating directly with an end client. It also means you have someone helping to market your business, with you only paying for successful leads.

Recap: 10 Top Tips For Starting An Animation Studio

1. Manage your animation startups cashflow ( Always charge 50% upfront)

2. Repeat business is very important, so provide a quality production service.

3. Google Ads can be very costly but if apporached correctly they can be affordable and  effective.

4. Build a high quality & relevant portfolio as quickly as possible.

5. Recommendations from happy clients are better than any paid advertising.

6. Extra online [ortfolios (on Behance) are an effective animation showcase for work and lead generation.

7. Pitch for business animation work online. (Find the fixed budget projects.)

8. Maximise networking effort with contacts that can offer your animation services to their clients.

9.It’s okay to say 'No' to small animation jobs.

10. Specialise - Find your animation niche

(One for luck) 11. Offer a fee or precentage for introductions that lead to paid animation work.

That's a wrap...

Hopefully the above 10 top tips for starting your own animation studio (well 11 top tips) are of value to budding freelance animators, seasoned animators, producers and entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their own studio. Cheers... Jon Draper - Founder of Stormy Studio.

After lots of pondering... our studio launched an online course, jobs board and community to help you plan and start your own animation studio.

Start A Studio Logo

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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 .

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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?

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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!

animation studio business plan

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.

animation studio business plan

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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Business center “9 akrov” Nauchny proezd, 19, Moscow, Russia How to find us

Glukoza Production (further – "Company") is an animation studio focused on producing of modern hi-tech 3D animation projects. Smoothly running and safety production scheme used in the Company allows successfully perform not only internal projects but also projects for other film studios and the film distributing companies.

Since 2007 the Company has created more than 15 musical videos using 3D graphics and animation. In 2008 we started working on the unique for Russia project - a 3d animated feature film " Savva ".

 
   
 

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Modelesdebusinessplan.com

Toutes les ressources pour ouvrir son studio de pilates 🧘‍♀️

Mettez toutes les chances de votre côté pour monter un projet rentable.

Voici le Business Model Canvas pour votre studio de pilates

Cet article a été écrit par un expert qui a étudié l’industrie et a confectionné le business plan pour un studio de pilates

studio de pilates business model canvas

Vous retrouverez une analyse PESTEL complète, modifiable et sans copyright dans notre modèle de business plan

Nous avons rédigé de nombreux business plans pour des studios de pilates .

Bien trop souvent, les gérants de ces établissements ne prennent pas le temps de structurer leur projet de manière claire et efficace.

Pourquoi? Parce qu'ils n'ont pas les bons outils et les bonnes structures. Parmi ceux-là, il y a le Business Model Canvas.

Qu'est-ce qu'un Business Model Canvas ? Est-ce que j'en ai besoin pour mon studio de pilates ?

Soyons honnêtes avec vous.

Ce n’est pas un remède miracle, mais le Business Model Canvas est un outil précieux pour structurer votre projet de manière stratégique.

Il permet de visualiser l'ensemble des éléments clés de votre entreprise.

Si vous êtes sur le point d'ouvrir un studio de pilates , utiliser un Business Model Canvas n’est pas juste utile, c’est indispensable.

Il vous aidera à :

  • définir clairement votre proposition de valeur, comme des cours de pilates personnalisés ou des programmes de bien-être complets
  • identifier vos segments de clientèle, qu'il s'agisse de personnes cherchant à améliorer leur condition physique, de femmes enceintes ou de seniors en quête de bien-être
  • structurer vos canaux de distribution, qu'il s'agisse de votre présence en ligne, de partenariats avec des centres de santé ou d'événements de bien-être
  • cerner vos principales sources de revenus, que ce soit les abonnements mensuels, les cours à la carte ou les ateliers spécialisés
  • mettre en lumière vos ressources clés, telles qu'un instructeur certifié, un équipement de qualité ou un emplacement stratégique

Bien sûr, le Business Model Canvas ne garantit pas le succès à lui seul, mais il vous offre une vue d'ensemble claire et une feuille de route pour votre studio de pilates.

Et si vous rédigez un business plan pour votre studio de pilates , le Business Model Canvas est un excellent outil pour vous guider tout au long du processus.

animation studio business plan

Notre business plan pour un studio de pilates vous aidera à réussir votre projet.

Des exemples pour chaque partie du Business Model Canvas d'un studio de pilates

- Personnes cherchant à améliorer leur condition physique et leur bien-être - Femmes enceintes et post-partum - Entreprises souhaitant offrir des cours de bien-être à leurs employés

- Cours de pilates personnalisés pour tous les niveaux - Ambiance apaisante et studio équipé de matériel de qualité - Ateliers et événements spéciaux (yoga-pilates, méditation, nutrition)

- Studio de pilates physique - Réseaux sociaux (Instagram, Facebook) pour attirer et engager la clientèle - Cours en ligne et partenariats avec des entreprises locales

- Coaching personnalisé et suivi des progrès - Programmes de fidélité pour clients réguliers - Organisation d’événements exclusifs (ateliers de bien-être, retraites)

- Abonnements mensuels et cartes de cours - Frais pour des ateliers et événements spéciaux - Vente de produits de bien-être (tapis, vêtements, accessoires)

- Instructeurs certifiés et expérimentés - Studio bien équipé et situé dans un quartier accessible - Plateforme en ligne pour les cours virtuels

- Conception et animation de cours de pilates - Organisation d’ateliers et d’événements de bien-être - Gestion de l'expérience client en studio et en ligne

- Fournisseurs de matériel de pilates et de bien-être - Professionnels de la santé (kinésithérapeutes, nutritionnistes) - Influenceurs et experts en fitness et bien-être

- Salaires des instructeurs et du personnel - Coût du matériel et de l’équipement - Frais d’exploitation (loyer, marketing, plateformes en ligne)

animation studio business plan

Nous avons également un article dédié à l'analyse SWOT pour ce projet

Ne confondez pas Business Model Canvas, Business Model et Business Plan

Vous êtes nombreux à vous tromper entre ces trois concepts : le business model, le business model canvas, et le business plan.

Le business model canvas, comme on vient de le voir, est un outil pratique pour résumer votre concept sur une seule page.

Vous y mettez vos segments de clientèle (amateurs de pilates, personnes cherchant à améliorer leur bien-être), votre proposition de valeur (cours de pilates personnalisés, séances de groupe, conseils de bien-être), et vos flux de revenus (abonnements mensuels, cours à la carte, ateliers spéciaux).

C'est visuel, rapide à remplir, et ça vous permet de voir en un coup d'œil si tout se tient.

Le business model, c'est simplement la manière dont votre studio de pilates va gagner de l'argent.

Par exemple, allez-vous proposer uniquement des cours en studio, offrir des séances en ligne, ou peut-être organiser des retraites de bien-être ? C'est l'idée centrale de votre activité.

Enfin, le business plan, c'est un document beaucoup plus détaillé. Il inclut tout : votre stratégie marketing (comment attirer des clients dans votre studio), vos prévisions financières (ce que vous allez dépenser et gagner), et votre plan opérationnel (comment vous allez gérer les réservations, le personnel, l'entretien des équipements, etc.). C'est celui que vous présenterez à un investisseur ou une banque.

En résumé : le business model, c'est le concept ; le canvas, c'est un outil de synthèse ; et le business plan, c'est votre feuille de route complète.

Des exemples de Business Model Canvas complétés pour des studios de Pilates

Un business model canvas pour un studio de pilates rééducatif.

Kinésithérapeutes, médecins généralistes, centres de rééducation, fournisseurs d'équipements spécialisés.

Sessions de Pilates adaptées aux besoins de rééducation, collaboration avec des professionnels de santé, suivi personnalisé des progrès des clients.

Offrir des programmes de Pilates spécifiquement conçus pour la rééducation physique, améliorant la mobilité et réduisant la douleur.

Consultations initiales détaillées, suivi régulier des progrès, ateliers éducatifs sur la rééducation par le Pilates.

Références médicales, site web, réseaux sociaux, partenariats avec des centres de santé.

Personnes en rééducation post-opératoire, patients souffrant de douleurs chroniques, seniors cherchant à améliorer leur mobilité.

Salaires des instructeurs spécialisés, achat d'équipements de rééducation, frais de partenariat avec des professionnels de santé, coûts de marketing.

Sessions individuelles de Pilates, abonnements mensuels, ateliers et séminaires éducatifs.

Un Business Model Canvas pour un studio de Pilates de bien-être

Fournisseurs de matériel de bien-être, nutritionnistes, coachs de vie, centres de spa et de bien-être.

Sessions de Pilates axées sur le bien-être général, intégration de conseils nutritionnels, organisation de retraites de bien-être.

Proposer une approche holistique du bien-être en combinant Pilates, nutrition et relaxation.

Programmes personnalisés de bien-être, suivi régulier, événements exclusifs pour les membres, ateliers de nutrition et de relaxation.

Site web, réseaux sociaux, collaborations avec influenceurs bien-être, partenariats avec centres de spa.

Personnes cherchant à améliorer leur bien-être général, amateurs de fitness holistique, clients de spas et centres de bien-être.

Salaires des instructeurs et coachs, achat de matériel de bien-être, frais de partenariat avec des nutritionnistes et centres de spa, coûts de marketing.

Abonnements mensuels, sessions individuelles, retraites de bien-être, ateliers et séminaires.

Un Business Model Canvas pour un studio de Pilates pour athlètes

Clubs sportifs, entraîneurs personnels, physiothérapeutes, fournisseurs d'équipements sportifs.

Sessions de Pilates adaptées aux besoins des athlètes, programmes de renforcement et de prévention des blessures, collaboration avec des entraîneurs et physiothérapeutes.

Optimiser les performances sportives et prévenir les blessures grâce à des programmes de Pilates spécifiques pour les athlètes.

Suivi personnalisé des performances, consultations régulières avec des entraîneurs et physiothérapeutes, ateliers de prévention des blessures.

Partenariats avec clubs sportifs, site web, réseaux sociaux, collaborations avec entraîneurs et physiothérapeutes.

Athlètes professionnels et amateurs, clubs sportifs, personnes cherchant à améliorer leurs performances sportives.

Salaires des instructeurs spécialisés, achat d'équipements sportifs, frais de partenariat avec des clubs et entraîneurs, coûts de marketing.

Sessions individuelles et de groupe, abonnements mensuels, ateliers de prévention des blessures, programmes de performance sportive.

Un Business Model Canvas vierge à télécharger gratuitement

Si vous ne souhaitez pas modifier le Business Model Canvas de notre business plan, vous pouvez télécharger celui-ci et la remplir avec vos propres éléments.

Bonne utilisation du Business Model Canvas et bon business plan !

business model canvas vierge

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