High Impact Film Fund Program aims to lure major productions and boost the local economy
Miami-Dade County is ready to roll out the red carpet for the entertainment industry. In a move designed to reignite the local film scene, officials announced the launch of the High Impact Film Fund Program (HIFFP), the largest incentive program ever offered in the state of Florida.
The film program aims to reclaim Miami's spotlight
The program, spearheaded by Miami-Dade County Commissioner René Garcia and approved unanimously by the Board of County Commissioners, promises a cash rebate of up to 20% for qualifying domestic and international productions that choose Miami-Dade County as their filming location. This financial incentive, totaling $50 million over the next five years, aims to attract major motion pictures and television series back to Miami.
The Miami-Dade County Office of Film and Entertainment played a key role in developing the HIFFP. Recognizing the industry's significant contribution to the local economy, the Film Office actively promotes Miami-Dade as a premier destination.
These productions not only generate job opportunities but also showcase the region's unique character to a global audience. Increased visibility translates into a boost for tourism and attracts further investment in the area.
Understanding the need to address industry concerns, the Film Office conducted extensive outreach efforts over the past year. Engaging with studio executives, directors, producers, and other industry stakeholders, they focused on both established players within the county's scene and those considering future projects in Miami-Dade. Feedback from these consultations revealed that the lack of competitive financial incentives had been a major deterrent for major studios when selecting locations.
County officials voice strong support for HIFFP
Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said the HIFFP aligned with the county's goals of supporting both artistic and economic development. She described the HIFFP as a perfect fit for their vision of making Miami-Dade a center for creative industries.
Mayor Levine Cava anticipated the program to have a long-lasting positive impact on the county. She explained that in addition to creating jobs, the HIFFP would provide important support to the many local businesses that are essential to Miami-Dade's economic health.
Commissioner René Garcia echoed Mayor Cava's sentiments, highlighting the tremendous support the program has received from various stakeholders. He acknowledged Miami-Dade County's existing strengths – a skilled workforce, talented local actors, excellent infrastructure, and diverse filming locations – that already make it an ideal destination.
The economic benefits of incentive programs are well-documented. They stimulate local spending, attract investment, promote tourism, and enhance the overall appeal of a region.
Miami-Dade County Film Commissioner Marco Giron said the High Impact Film Fund Program (HIFFP) addressed a critical need within the industry. He explained that producers, artists, and crew members had all identified the lack of a substantial incentive program as a major concern. Giron said he believed the HIFFP would position Miami-Dade County as a significant player on the global stage for film and television production.
Miami-Dade County's reputation as a filming destination is already well-established. MovieMaker Magazine recently recognized it as a top 10 destination and one of the best places to live and work as a filmmaker in 2024. The Miami-Dade County Office of Film and Entertainment has also garnered numerous awards.
Miami-Dade County has been a popular filming location for both television shows and movies, featuring in iconic series such as Keeping Up with the Kardashians, Miami Vice, and Dexter, as well as major motion pictures like Iron Man 3, There's Something About Mary, Pain and Gain, and the Bad Boys franchise. Recently, it served as the backdrop for the HBO remake of Father of the Bride, starring Miami natives Andy Garcia and Gloria Estefan, among others.
The Miami-Dade County Office of Film and Entertainment is part of The Office of Innovation and Economic Development (OIED), which is dedicated to fostering a "FutureReady Miami-Dade." This initiative prioritizes investment in equity, resilience, and innovation to solidify Miami-Dade County's position as a leading global economic hub.
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