Bids returned by several contractors are understood to have exceeded the £7m budget for a new multiplex cinema, which forms a key part of the wider £100m retail and leisure redevelopment scheme.
Caerphilly district council has halted procurement to look into ways of closing the funding gap, including alternative procurement options.
Council officers are also in discussions with the Welsh Government and are preparing supporting information to establish the level of financial support that may be available.
The Odeon five-screen multiplex cinema was to be the only one in Caerphilly and was set to be the final piece in the regeneration of the town.
Councillor Tudor Davies, said the outlook on the development still remains promising.
“Funding will be negotiated with the Welsh Government and is still looking positive.
“It’s a very important part of Bargoed’s regeneration and the sooner that the funding is resolved then the sooner construction can start and the people of Bargoed can enjoy a facility that is much-needed.”