Introduction : Cherokee Film Commission
The Cherokee Film Commission is dedicated to promoting the Cherokee Nation as a unique and culturally rich destination for film, television, and digital media production. With a focus on preserving the Cherokee Nation’s heritage while attracting high-quality productions, the commission offers comprehensive support services and attractive incentives to filmmakers.
Mission and Purpose
The mission of the Cherokee Film Commission is to position the Cherokee Nation as a leading destination for film production by offering exceptional support services and financial incentives. The purpose is to attract projects that showcase Cherokee culture, stimulate the local economy, create jobs, and contribute to the region’s growing reputation as a dynamic filming location.
Programs
The Cherokee Film Commission offers a variety of programs aimed at supporting the production community:
- Film Incentive Programs: Financial incentives for qualifying productions that choose to film within the Cherokee Nation.
- Qualified Spend: Expenses must be incurred within the Cherokee Nation, including the use of local vendors and resources.
- Support Services: Assistance with scouting culturally significant locations, acquiring filming permits, and connecting with local crew and experts.
Filmmakers can also benefit from:
- Screen Credit: Productions must credit the Cherokee Film Commission for their participation.
- CPA Audit: Productions may be subject to an audit to verify eligible expenses.
- Certification: Both pre-production and post-production certifications are required to qualify for rebates.
Similar Programs
Similar to the Cherokee Film Commission, other Native American or regional film commissions offer production support and incentives. These include the Navajo Nation Film Office, the New Mexico Film Office, and the Oklahoma Film + Music Office. Each of these programs provides different levels of financial assistance and support for productions.
Maximize Your Cherokee Film Commission Benefits with Vitrina

Unique Aspects
The Cherokee Film Commission is unique in its focus on promoting the rich heritage and culture of the Cherokee Nation while supporting the growth of the film industry in the region. Notable features include:
- Cultural Significance: Opportunities to film on Cherokee Nation lands, preserving and promoting indigenous culture.
- Generous Incentives: Financial rebates for productions that support local economic growth.
- Scenic Locations: Diverse natural landscapes that offer unique settings for filmmakers.
- Supportive Community: Access to local experts who understand the region’s culture and are dedicated to helping productions succeed.
Vitrina’s Project Tracker
Vitrina’s Project Tracker is a valuable tool for tracking active film commissions, grant programs, and the projects they support. By using this tool, filmmakers can gain insights into the types of projects that have successfully leveraged the Cherokee Film Commission’s incentives and identify future opportunities for collaboration.
Finding Local Partners with VBN
Through VBN, filmmakers can connect with local production experts, such as vendors, crew members, and post-production facilities in the Cherokee Nation. These partnerships are crucial for meeting the requirements necessary to qualify for incentives, ensuring a seamless production experience within the region.
Key Takeaways
- The Cherokee Film Commission provides financial incentives for qualified production expenses within the Cherokee Nation.
- VBN offers access to detailed profiles and updates on film incentives and commission programs.
- Vitrina’s Project Tracker helps identify film commissions and grants that align with your project needs.
- Local partnerships through VBN can help productions qualify for Cherokee Film Commission rebates and incentives.
- For the latest updates on incentive programs, regularly check the Cherokee Film Commission website and VBN.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Cherokee Film Commission offers financial incentives for qualifying production expenses within the Cherokee Nation.
Production expenses must be incurred within the Cherokee Nation, including the use of local vendors and crew.
Yes, screen credit is required to qualify for incentives.
VBN connects filmmakers with local service providers and guides them through the incentive application process to maximize benefits. For more information, visit the Cherokee Film Commission.