Kansas City, Mo.—the first and only city in America to enact a local film incentive without having an active state incentive—has increased its rebate to 10 percent. The update, passed by a unanimous City Council vote, becomes effective Nov. 1, 2017.
The primary update to the ordinance includes the new rebate of up to 10 percent, a 2.5-percent increase from the initial incentive, which launched February 2016. The program is a rebate incentive for qualified film production expenditures. Projects are deemed eligible through an application process, with funds available on a first-come, first-considered basis. The incentive has an annual cap of $75,000.
“A 10-percent rebate makes Kansas City a more competitive destination for attracting a variety of production types, including films, television shows, commercials and more,” said Kansas City Film Commissioner Stephane Scupham. “These productions give KC national exposure, which helps attract visitors, sustain and support job growth and generate substantial economic impact to the entire metropolitan area. Increasing our destination’s ‘seen on screen’ exposure broadens KC’s brand reach and awareness. The incentive is a key driver in marketing KC as a valuable destination for film business.”
Past rebate recipients have varied in size, scope and audience. The productions include All Creatures Here Below, a feature film by actor-writer-filmmaker and KC native David Dastmalchian; NBC’s hit TV show American Ninja Warrior Season 9; a corporate project by Bic Media and a large-scale commercial for Dixie Ultra Products, filmed in the 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District this past summer.
“Since the Film Development Program was approved in 2016, more than three quarters of a million dollars was spent on goods and services in Kansas City, Missouri, related to film production,” said Megan Crigger, Director of Creative Services for the City of Kansas City, Missouri, In the Office of Culture and Creative Services. “This spend resulted in more than 200 film industry jobs. The update to the program ensures that Kansas City remains competitive and that the creative and economic momentum continues.”
The ordinance was developed in partnership with the City of Kansas City, Missouri’s Office of Culture and Creative Services (a part of the City Manager’s Office) and the KC Film Office, a division of Visit KC. For eligibility information or to apply, go to FilminKC.com.
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About the Kansas City Film Office
The KC Film Office leads the city’s efforts to attract film, television and new media productions to the community. A division of Visit KC, the Film Office focuses on three core priorities: production assistance, project recruitment and industry support. To date, the office has assisted with more than 600 productions, generating a local economic impact of more than $30 million. For more information, go to FilminKC.com.
