Mission and Purpose

The mission of the DeKalb Entertainment Commission is to position DeKalb County as a leading destination for film, television, and digital content production. By offering streamlined services, such as permitting and location scouting, and by leveraging Georgia’s robust film tax incentives, the commission aims to attract both local and international productions while stimulating the county’s creative economy.

Programs

The DeKalb Entertainment Commission offers several programs and services that support filmmakers and reduce production costs:

• Permitting Assistance: The commission provides a one-stop shop for obtaining filming permits, helping filmmakers secure access to public and private locations across DeKalb County.
• Georgia Film Tax Credit: Productions in DeKalb County may qualify for Georgia’s highly competitive tax credits, which offer up to 30% rebates on qualified production expenses, including local labor, equipment, and services.
• Location Scouting: The DeKalb Entertainment Commission assists with location scouting, offering filmmakers access to a variety of urban, suburban, and natural settings.
• Workforce Development Programs: DeKalb supports local talent development by connecting filmmakers with skilled local crews, vendors, and post-production services.

Additional benefits include:

• Screen Credit: Productions receiving financial incentives from Georgia are required to provide screen credit to the state and the DeKalb Entertainment Commission.
• Certification Process: Productions must go through a certification process to ensure they meet the eligibility requirements for Georgia’s film tax credits.

Similar Programs

Other counties in Georgia, such as Fulton and Gwinnett, offer similar programs through their local film offices. Combined with the state’s lucrative tax incentives, these programs make Georgia one of the most popular destinations for film and television production in the United States.

Navigating VBN for Expanded Lists

The Vitrina Business Network (VBN) offers filmmakers access to a global database of film commissions, incentive programs, and production resources. Through VBN, filmmakers can explore detailed profiles of the DeKalb Entertainment Commission, compare incentives, and gain access to local resources that streamline the production process.

Unique Aspects

The DeKalb Entertainment Commission offers a range of unique features that make DeKalb County an attractive destination for filmmakers:

• Diverse Locations: DeKalb County offers filmmakers access to a wide range of settings, from historic buildings and urban neighborhoods to suburban environments and scenic parks.
• Proximity to Atlanta: Located just outside Atlanta, DeKalb provides filmmakers with the benefits of Georgia’s production infrastructure, including access to top-tier production facilities and skilled crews, while offering a lower cost of operation compared to the city.
• Georgia Film Tax Credit: DeKalb benefits from Georgia’s renowned film tax credit program, which offers up to 30% rebates on production expenses, making it one of the most competitive film destinations in the United States.
• Growing Film Industry: DeKalb has seen significant growth in film and television productions, providing filmmakers with access to an expanding local workforce and industry resources.

Understanding and Navigating with Vitrina

Vitrina Business Network simplifies the process of navigating the DeKalb Entertainment Commission’s permits and incentive programs. Through VBN, filmmakers can connect with local production companies, equipment rental services, and location scouts to ensure they meet all the requirements for Georgia’s tax credits and maximize the benefits of filming in DeKalb.

Vitrina’s Project Tracker

Vitrina’s Project Tracker helps filmmakers track successful productions that have utilized DeKalb’s resources and Georgia’s tax incentives. By following these examples, filmmakers can better plan their projects and take full advantage of the financial benefits available in DeKalb.

Finding Local Partners with VBN

Through VBN, filmmakers can connect with trusted local partners in DeKalb, such as production companies, post-production facilities, and experienced crew members. These partnerships ensure that productions run smoothly and meet the eligibility criteria for state and local financial incentives while taking advantage of DeKalb’s unique locations.

Key Takeaways

• The DeKalb Entertainment Commission offers essential services such as permitting assistance, location scouting, and connections to Georgia’s film tax credit program, which provides up to 30% rebates on qualified production expenses.
• VBN provides detailed profiles of global film commissions, including the DeKalb Entertainment Commission, helping filmmakers navigate local incentives and production resources.
• Vitrina’s Project Tracker allows filmmakers to track successful projects and maximize the financial benefits of Georgia’s tax credits while filming in DeKalb.
• Local partnerships through VBN ensure productions can access DeKalb’s diverse locations, skilled workforce, and production infrastructure, helping to meet tax credit eligibility requirements.
• For the latest updates on permits and financial incentives, filmmakers should regularly check the DeKalb Entertainment Commission website and VBN.