James McCarter is a visionary strategist and deal architect whose career bridges the worlds of media, entertainment, and entrepreneurship. As the founder of FP Projects, he has become a trusted advisor to global brands, major studios, and creative innovators seeking clarity, structure, and strategic advantage in an increasingly complex marketplace.

James’s journey began long before his first major contract. After losing both of his parents, he was raised by his grandparents, two entrepreneurial thinkers who modeled leadership through discipline, service, and integrity. His grandmother, a nurse and restaurateur, and his grandfather, a senior executive at RR Donnelley who owned a printing business, taught him that success begins with curiosity and purpose. They instilled in him the belief that real deal making is about paying attention to everything except the money first, because true power lives in the fine print.

From those lessons came a mindset that continues to define his leadership: clarity over chaos, partnership over pressure, and alignment over competition.

Over the past decade, James has built a reputation as one of the most trusted and forward-thinking negotiators in media and entertainment. He has led and advised on more than $200 million in partnerships, licensing agreements, and distribution deals, helping shape how creative content, software, and intellectual property are distributed and monetized worldwide. His work has helped clients and partners secure transformative outcomes across film, television, music, and digital platforms.

Beyond corporate partnerships, James is deeply invested in the creative community. He has advised on strategy, contract negotiations, release strategy, marketing campaigns, strategic partnerships, distribution agreements, and career development for artists, labels, and production companies including 1552 Music, Allie McGuire, Bing Players, Charlie Heat, D. Phelps, Eighty Eight Studios, Emery Kelly, Gemaine, Heavy Steppers, HitCo, Hysteria Records, Hedoniarecords, Independent Co., Johari Noelle, Just For Record Studios, Mamii, Matt Muse, Sonta, The Orchard, and Welcome to the Hotel.

James’s entrepreneurial vision extends beyond consulting. As the founder of McCarter Reserve Premium Bourbon, he expanded into the luxury spirits market, combining craftsmanship and strategy to build a brand rooted in authenticity and excellence. His influence has contributed to partnerships and campaigns featured in outlets such as BET, Billboard, Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, and The New York Times, with collaborations that include Nike, Lululemon, Shure Audio, and Total Wine.

Through FP Projects, James is redefining how creatives, businesses, and brands approach partnership. The firm operates at the intersection of creative ambition and executive precision, helping clients transform uncertainty into strategy, potential into structure, and relationships into long-term success.

At his core, James believes that negotiation is not a battle to be won but a balance to be built. His work and philosophy continue to shape how modern leaders, entrepreneurs, and artists create partnerships that last, proving that true power lives in the fine print.

Ready to Work Together

If you are ready to move beyond uncertainty, gain clarity in your partnerships, and negotiate with purpose and precision, FP Projects can help. Explore our services or schedule a strategy session to start building your next chapter with confidence.