The Greater Cleveland Film Commission is the only organization in NortheastOhio devoted to developing the media sector. Through aggressive business attraction, extensive workforce training and statewide advocacy efforts, the work of the Greater Cleveland Film Commission is resulting in a significant economic impact for the region and the growth of a new local industry. Our work focuses on three strategic components: workforce development, to build a comprehensive, skilled crew base; attracting businesses and media production to the region; and advocacy for public policies that will promote and support local media production.
Workforce Development
Workforce development programs are designed to provide local talent with the training, experience and professional connections to enable them to succeed in the film industry. All workforce development programs are created in consultation with industry experts and local academic partners in order to yield relevant, employer-driven curriculum and training. Current programs include industry training boot camps, seminars, academic programs, networking events and access to experts. GCFC Workforce Development programs are designed to be comprehensive; covering the full range of needs associated the major phases of media creation (development, pre-production/production, and post-production/distribution) at introductory, intermediate and advanced levels. Given the wide range of employment opportunities available through the film industry, GCFC develops programs for individuals associated with the creative, business and production aspects of film. The Greater Cleveland Film Commission works closely with local colleges and universities on curriculum development and staff development.
Business and Media Attraction
The Greater Cleveland Film Commission is aggressively pursuing media production and businesses that can make a significant economic impact on the local economy. The organization serves as a one-stop-shop for local, national and international filmmakers and producers to ensure great filming experiences. With the passage of the Film Tax Credit for Ohio in 2009, the region is poised to compete for a wider range of media production that would not otherwise consider a location without such incentives. The Greater Cleveland Film Commission also works together with private and public partners to promote Northeast Ohio as a filming destination and to offer creative incentives for productions that choose to film here. The organization’s production services provide a one-stop-shop for local and national filmmakers and assists with pre-scouting locations, acquiring permits, providing necessary resources and information and serving as a liaison between production companies and local government offices to streamline services and make the production process more convenient. These services make for a more positive filming experience for productions.
Advocacy and Public Policy
Having successfully lobbied the State of Ohio to pass the competitive Film Tax Credit in 2009, we continue to advocate for public policies that will promote and support media production. We are working closely with state officials and producers to facilitate the application process and continue to build strong relationship with public officials to work together in our economic and workforce development efforts. We have built strategic relationships with other commissions around the state, the Ohio Film Office, local colleges and universities as well as and industry experts.