Texas Increases Entertainment Grants to $200 Million to Boost Film Industry

Texas is making a big move to expand its presence in the entertainment industry by increasing its entertainment grants budget to $200 million. This decision aims to attract more productions, enhance infrastructure, and solidify Texas as a competitive player in the lucrative industry.

Paul Jensen, the executive director of the Texas Media Production Alliance, expressed enthusiasm for the increased budget, stating, “We all want this business to be here. We have a really strong crew base that wants to work hard and get the job done. And, while we’re enjoying the success of an enhanced incentive program that’s fully funded, we’re starting to see some real changes in the infrastructure to accommodate big productions.”

The state’s previous grant program, totaling $45 million, ran out of funds before its two-year time period expired. The new $200 million program is set to cover productions from September 2023 through August 2025, making Texas more competitive with neighboring states like New Mexico and Louisiana, which have also heavily invested in film production.

Eligible productions can receive returns of up to 22.5%, with an additional 2.5% available for productions in underserved areas of the state. Texas is already home to major shows and movies like YELLOWSTONE, MAYOR OF KINGSTOWN, and FEAR THE WALKING DEAD, and with the expectation of more productions moving in, the grant will support the expansion of the state’s entertainment infrastructure.

To ensure a sufficient workforce, local colleges are now offering credentialing programs for entertainment-related work. Tarrant Community College, for example, offers certificates in various fields to help Texans get involved in the growing industry.

With Texas investing more in the entertainment industry through these tax incentives, the state is positioning itself as a hub for film and television production. However, the effectiveness of such programs in boosting the economy is a topic of debate in other states, with some questioning whether these incentives truly benefit taxpayers in the long run.

As Texas looks to solidify its position in the entertainment industry, the increased budget for entertainment grants signals a significant step towards attracting more productions and boosting the state’s economy through the film and television sector.