To fund The Projector, Tan and her co-founders turned to crowdfunding, raising between $50,000 and $70,000 on Indiegogo. This decision not only provided essential funds but also built a strong emotional connection with supporters, who became ambassadors for the cinema.
Throughout the years, The Projector has managed to survive the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. They have done this by offering a membership program, providing benefits like free tickets, discounts, and access to special events. The team has also made efforts to engage with the community on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.
Despite the challenges of operating in a city-state not known for its creative scene, The Projector has thrived by staying true to its core mission and maintaining open communication with the censorship board. The cinema has also created a strong brand, emphasizing a relaxed, vintage, and edgy environment that resonates with audiences.
Tan's advice for fellow entrepreneurs is to focus on building a community around their business, viewing customers as supporters, and engaging with them to create a sense of pride and belonging. This approach can lead to increased word-of-mouth marketing and greater overall success for the venture.