From David Volz
The Miami-Dade County Office of Film and Entertainment has launched the largest film incentive in Florida to attract major motion pictures and television series.
The film incentive, known as the High Impact Film Fund Program (HIFFP), will provide up to $50 million over the next 5 years to bring productions back to Miami-Dade County through a cash rebate of up to 20% for qualifying domestic and international productions filming locally. The HIFFP was sponsored by Miami-Dade County Commissioner René Garcia and unanimously approved by the Board of County Commissioners.
The Film Office underscores the significant economic contribution of the local film industry, generating job opportunities and showcasing our region on a global scale. Highlighting Miami-Dade County in films and TV series not only enhances our visibility but also boosts tourism and attracts investments.
The Film Office conducted an extensive year-long outreach, met with producers, directors, studio executives, and other industry stakeholders, including those already involved in our county’s film scene and those considering future ventures. Feedback analysis revealed the absence of competitive entertainment economic development programs has hindered major TV and film productions from choosing Miami-Dade County as their filming destination.
“The High Impact Film Fund Program is a testament to our commitment to nurturing both the artistic and economic growth of our community,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “This initiative aligns with our vision of making Miami-Dade a thriving hub for creative industries, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on our county. Not only will this program create jobs, but it will support the many local businesses that are the backbone of our economy in Miami-Dade County.”
Miami-Dade County Commissioner René Garcia is pleased about the the tremendous support he has received from his colleagues on the Board of County Commission, industry stakeholders, and residents alike. “Our unmatched crews, talent, infrastructure, and locations have made Miami-Dade the perfect place to shoot movies and television series. This program will help create and sustain thousands of small businesses and good paying jobs for our residents and while bringing billions in much needed new investment to our county. I am especially excited about the possibility of growing this program with the promise of retaining our talented workforce and youth, and the economic growth a robust program can bring to our community. It will also strengthen our global competitiveness and deliver significant, long-term value to our economic future,” said Commissioner René Garcia.
“Film incentive programs support economic development by creating jobs, stimulating local spending, attracting investment, promoting tourism, and enhancing the county’s overall appeal. The main concern I always hear from producers to artists to crew personnel is the lack of a real incentive. The program will begin to position Miami-Dade as a global destination for major film and television production,”, stated Miami-Dade Film Commissioner, Marco Giron.
