Air Bud Returns

COMPANY STATUS STATEMENT

Air Bud Returns is an independent feature film reboot from the original creators of the Air Bud and Air Buddies franchise. The film is currently in production, principal photography began October 1st, and slated for a theatrical release Fall 2026.

REASONS TO INVEST

1. The Air Bud franchise consists of 14 movies, has earned $500M+ in global revenue, generated 1B+ views, and sold 45M+ DVDs. Distributed in over 190 countries through partners like Disney and Netflix, it remains one of the most successful family entertainment brands of the last 30 years.
2. Air Bud is a globally recognized, multigenerational brand. With 72% of the U.S. population made up of Millennials—many now parents—and 80% of new moms within that group, the Air Bud reboot taps into nostalgia, while attracting the next generation of family audiences.
3. A recent survey conducted by UCLA Anderson School of Management found that 88% of Millennial and Gen Z respondents reported high Air Bud brand awareness, positive recall, and intent to watch Air Bud content, highlighting strong demand and a solid foundation for a successful sequel.
4. 4,000+ creators and influencers submitted their dogs during our The Search for the Next Air Bud casting call, totaling millions of social impressions.
5. The original Air Bud grossed $27.8M upon its release in 1997 in an era without social media.
6. Recent family movie remakes and reboots have dominated the global box office in the last three years. The Little Mermaid, Mufasa, and Lilo & Stitch alone grossed $2.3B in global revenue.

THE PITCH

From Beloved Classic to Big-Screen Return

Air Bud Returns is a brand-new theatrical feature from the original creators of the Air Bud and Air Buddies franchise, set once again in the iconic town of Fernfield “Where Anything Is Possible.” Backed by 25+ years of family entertainment experience, the team is reuniting with full creative control to deliver the next chapter in a franchise beloved across generations.

Since 1997, Air Bud has led the way in heartfelt, live-action family storytelling with 21 films and 4 original series:

1. Air Bud (5 films)
2. Air Buddies (7 films)
3. Santa Paws (2 films)
4. MVP: Most Valuable Primate (4 films)
5. Pup Star (4 films)
6. Pup Academy (2 Seasons)
7. Super PupZ
8. Scaredy Cats
9. Phantom Pups

Air Bud Entertainment is a trusted name in quality family stories. “We Speak Family”—and now, we’re inviting a new generation to join the legacy.

THE OPPORTUNITY & OUR BUSINESS MODEL

A Proven Playbook, 35 Years in the Making

Returning to our roots, Air Bud Returns is being independently produced, just like the original. At the helm is director and producer Robert Vince, who has produced all 14 Air Bud / Air Buddies films and a total of 49 feature films and series, spanning studios and streamers globally.

Our studio, Air Bud Entertainment (ABE), is vertically integrated—with in-house Production, Post-Production and VFX. This gives us full control over creative execution, production schedules, cost efficiency, and quality.

Our content is featured on Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Pluto TV, Roku, and beyond. Our growing YouTube channel, Air Bud TV, has over 500,000 subscribers. A theatrical distribution deal is already secured for 2,000 screens in the U.S. and Canada, with international rights available for licensing via our global distribution network.

THE MARKET & OUR TRACTION

Theatrical Box Office Potential

The Air Bud universe includes 21 films and 4 original series, in partnership with major platforms like Disney (14 films) and Netflix (6 films + 4 series). Distributed in 190+ countries and 30+ languages, the franchise has surpassed 1+ billion global views.

The Air Bud / Air Buddies franchise has generated $500M+ in gross revenue, with Air Buddies named the #1 direct-to-video family franchise of its time, selling 45 million DVDs alone.

The franchise’s success lies in its timeless formula: uplifting messages, unique storytelling; animal heroes; and heartwarming adventures that inspire repeat viewing. There’s always a character for "every-buddy" to relate to.

Today, Air Bud is just as relevant today as it was move then 28 years ago . The nostalgic movie and beloved character Buddy have been woven into the fabric of society. In consumer testing, it ranks among the top IPs fans want to see return. This reboot speaks directly to millennials now raising kids, parents who grew up with the franchise, and grandparents who introduced it to them—making this a rare investment with both emotional and commercial upside.

Investor Perks

Own a Piece of the Legacy

Now is your chance to be more than a fan—be part of the legacy. Your investment helps bring Air Bud Returns to life and back to theaters. With full creative control, an experienced team, and a built-in fanbase, this is a rare opportunity to share in the success of a franchise that has already captured the hearts and imagination of multiple generations. Buddy is back! Remember when you get the chance always take the shot!

$10,000 – “Ain’t No Rules” Investor

Inspired by: “Ain’t no rule says a dog can’t play basketball!”

1. Exclusive tickets to the World Premiere of Air Bud Returns (4 tickets)
2. An advance, numbered script signed by Robert Vince and paw-printed by Buddy
3. A limited-edition Air Bud Returns investor gift pack (poster + merch)
4. All perks from lower tiers included

$1,000 – Timberwolves Investor

If you believe a dog can play basketball, you better believe you can win.

1. Special Thanks in tail credits
2. A limited-edition Timberwolves jersey from the movie, personalized with your name
3. All perks from lower tiers included

$250 – Play From the Heart Investor (entry tier)

For the nostalgic superfan who believes in Air Bud’s uplifting message.

1. Exclusive behind-the-scenes video updates throughout filming and post-production
2. Entry into the raffle - 2 Tickets to the World Premiere of Air Bud Returns
3. Membership in the Air Bud Family Legacy Network