Monday, 20 July 2009 00:00

The San Diego Film Commission, a government-funded nonprofit economic development program empowered to attract, facilitate, troubleshoot, and permit filming in the San Diego region, continues to be a strong advocate for filming in San Diego despite a troubled economic climate.

The Commission, recognizing that the downturn in the economy has had a negative effect on the industry, has created a commercial film incentive called “Invest San Diego” which will be funded by a grant from the San Diego Film Commission Foundation. It is comprised of a rebate to any commercial that has at least a $25,000 budget, shoots 75% locally in San Diego and hires 50% local hires. Up to a $2000 rebate will be offered to qualified applicants to reimburse police, fire, posting for no parking and ranger fees. This incentive also has a workforce training program built in to help give recent film school graduates their first job experience and a head start on a professional resume.

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Sunday, 19 July 2009 00:00

The San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau recently examined the importance of the film industry to San Diego. The piece recaps several movies and television shows that have been filmed in San Diego and reviews the impact on tourism and the local economy.

As noted in the story, 5.1 million U.S. adults selected a vacation destination because of a movie or TV show they saw, according to TIA statistics.

To read the original article, click here.

Friday, 17 July 2009 14:20

Although San Diego’s premier concert event is still over a month away, buzz is rapidly building for the 25th anniversary of Street Scene. Bolstered by headliners including Beastie Boys and Black Eyed Peas, Street Scene 2009 is set to rock downtown San Diego on August 28-29, a feat founder Rob Hagey has performed since 1984.

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Friday, 17 July 2009 12:35

After years of watching production lured away by government incentives, California has gotten into the game by approving a five-year $500 million tax credit program. On February 20, 2009, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed legislation creating tax credits for film and television productions. The program is the first significant system of incentives to be put in place in California.

Attracting new shows is the primary aim of the incentives, which offer a 25% tax credit for TV series that relocate to California. Low-budget independent films with budgets of $1 million to $10 million will also be eligible.

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