How Liora Works
Liora is a donor-supported film studio. Monthly supporters help cover the studio’s operating costs and the majority of each film’s production budget.
It’s no secret that millions of dollars go into making the films we see at the theater.
Many impactful organizations can’t afford quality storytelling due to funding.
At the same time, most professional filmmakers can’t afford to work for free.
Liora exists to bridge that gap—removing financial barriers so powerful stories can be told.
The Problem
Too many important stories go untold—not because they lack meaning, but because they lack funding.
The Solution
Our shared-cost model is funded by donors along with a contribution from the featured organization or individual.
We document the stories already changing the world, in hopes of amplifying their impact.
Where does money go?
Documentary filmmaking includes:
• Research and development
• Professional production crew and equipment
• Travel and location costs
• 200–500+ hours of editing
• Color grading and sound mix
• Music licensing
• Insurance and legal
• Impact campaigns
In addition, donor support sustains the ongoing work required to research, fundraise, and lead each project with integrity.
What does it cost?
Professional documentary films range widely in budget depending on scope.
• Small independent films: $30,000–$150,000
• Festival-level independent documentaries: $100,000–$300,000
• Large-scale productions: $700,000+
What your support covers
Monthly donors provide the foundation that keeps Liora running and the films moving forward. Their support helps cover:
Core operating costs
Production expenses
The time required to produce, direct, edit, and finish each film
Donor Supported
Radically Accessible
Impact Driven.
Data & Analytics
Impact of Documentaries
Standford Study 2024: Viewers of Just Mercy were 7.66% more likely to take meaningful action than non-viewers.
Measurable impact of cinematic storytelling—move people to action.
Viewers remember 95% of a message from video—compared to just 10% from text.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. Liora operates as a registered nonprofit, and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
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Liora is supported by donors who believe these stories deserve to be told. Their generosity helps cover both the day-to-day operating costs of running the nonprofit and a significant portion of each film’s production. We steward those resources carefully so we can create work that truly honors the people and stories we serve.
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Our films are made possible through partnership. Donor support covers the majority of production costs, while the featured organization contributes what they can. This shared investment ensures everyone is committed to the story and allows us to sustain high-quality filmmaking.
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Absolutely. If you know someone whose story deserves to be told, we’d love to hear from you. You can reach out through our contact page and share a little about them.
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We look for stories that are meaningful, under-resourced, and aligned with our mission. We spend time listening, praying, and discerning which projects we’re able to take on. Because our resources are limited, we can’t say yes to everything — but we take every submission seriously.
