Mission and Purpose

The mission of the Memphis / Shelby County Film & TV Commission is to promote the region as a premier filming destination by offering access to its diverse locations, talented crew base, and rich cultural history. The Commission works to attract both national and international productions by providing comprehensive support, including location scouting, permitting, and logistical assistance. By showcasing the city’s unique blend of Southern culture and heritage, the Memphis Film Commission helps boost the local economy and supports the growth of Tennessee’s film industry.

Programs

The Memphis / Shelby County Film & TV Commission offers several key programs and services to support filmmakers:

• Tennessee Entertainment Commission Film Incentives: The state of Tennessee offers rebates and tax incentives of up to 25% on qualified production expenditures, making it a financially attractive destination for film and television projects.
• Location Scouting Assistance: Memphis provides filmmakers with a variety of unique locations, including historic Beale Street, the Mississippi River, Sun Studio, and Graceland, along with modern urban settings. The Film Commission assists production teams in scouting and securing the right locations.
• Permitting and Logistical Support: The Memphis Film Commission helps filmmakers navigate the permitting process and provides logistical support to ensure smooth access to both public and private filming locations across the region.
• Crew and Vendor Directory: The Film Commission connects filmmakers with local production professionals, equipment rentals, and other service providers, ensuring full support throughout the production process.

Similar Programs

Similar programs to the Memphis / Shelby County Film & TV Commission include the Nashville Film Office, the Louisiana Entertainment Office, and the Georgia Film Office. These programs offer financial incentives, location support, and production assistance across the southern United States, catering to filmmakers looking to capture authentic Southern landscapes and cultures.

Navigating VBN for Expanded Lists

The Vitrina Business Network (VBN) offers a comprehensive database of active film commissions, government bodies, and incentive programs worldwide. By navigating VBN, filmmakers can access detailed profiles and updates on various incentive programs, helping them compare and select the best options for their productions.

Unique Aspects

The Memphis / Shelby County Film & TV Commission stands out for:

• Historic and Iconic Locations: Memphis offers filmmakers access to culturally significant locations like Beale Street, Graceland, and Sun Studio, as well as scenic views along the Mississippi River, providing authentic Southern backdrops for film and TV projects.
• Rich Musical Heritage: As the birthplace of blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and soul music, Memphis’s cultural significance adds a unique flavor to any production, making it an ideal location for projects related to music, history, and Southern culture.
• Comprehensive Local Support: The Film Commission provides hands-on support with location scouting, permitting, and connecting filmmakers to local vendors and production professionals, ensuring a smooth and efficient production process.

Understanding and Navigating with Vitrina

The Vitrina Business Network helps navigate the complexities of the Memphis / Shelby County Film & TV Commission and similar organizations. VBN provides access to detailed profiles of local production companies, post-production facilities, and other service providers, ensuring your project meets all qualifying criteria for available incentives.

Vitrina’s Project Tracker

Vitrina’s project tracker identifies the most active film commissions and grant programs, as well as the projects they support. This tool provides insights into past and current projects, helping filmmakers understand which incentives are most effective and how to apply them to their own productions.

Finding Local Partners with VBN

VBN connects you with local production companies, post-production facilities, and service providers. These connections can help your project meet the qualifying criteria for tax incentives and grant programs, ensuring you maximize the benefits offered by the Memphis Film Commission.

Key Takeaways

• The Memphis / Shelby County Film & TV Commission offers support for location scouting, permitting, and production services across one of the most culturally significant cities in the U.S.
• Tennessee offers tax credits and rebates of up to 25% on qualified production expenses, making Memphis a cost-effective destination for filmmakers.
• VBN provides access to detailed profiles and updates on global film incentives.
• Utilize Vitrina’s project tracker to find active film commissions and grant programs.
• Connect with local partners through VBN to qualify for available production support.
• Programs like the Memphis Film Commission are frequently updated; check their latest policies on their official site and VBN.

Always check the latest updates on the Memphis Film Commission’s official website and their most recent projects on VBN.