BROWARD COUNTY, FL - In an effort to attract television and film productions to Broward County, create economic growth, high paying jobs for residents, and offer new and exclusive opportunities for small businesses to boost the local economy, the County is amending the Film Lauderdale/Broward County Film Commission performance-based local Film and Television Incentive Program adopted last year. The Program begins today, June 8 and will support film and television projects.

The incentive program requires a certain amount of local spending. It also requires that a certain percentage of the project be produced in the County, a certain percentage of vendors must be in the County, and productions must hire at least one student/recent graduate from a local college or university and a verified Veteran.

Visit Lauderdale, Broward's Convention & Visitors Bureau will offer an additional incentive to projects which will attract tourists. Each project's eligibility will be determined on a case-by-case basis. A rebate is only issued after the project is completed and proof is submitted that all requirements have been satisfied.

"Broward County is committed to growing the film and television industry and this is a great first step," said Mayor Michael Udine. "It's Greater Fort Lauderdale's time to shine on the big and small screen while and expanding business opportunities."

"My main goal has been to create high wage jobs and the film and TV industry does just that," said Commissioner Steve Geller. "With a median salary of over $89,000 a year for this industry, it is a no-brainer that I would champion the growth of this economic engine in Broward County. Broward already recruited a dynamic new Film Commissioner and we will be building the largest film foundstage complex in the State of Florida. These changes to the incentive plan are the next of many steps to help attract the industry to the County."

"We are making Greater Fort Lauderdale the most film/business friendly and economically affordable place to film a project in Florida, and this is only the beginning of our commitment, said Sandy Lighterman, Film Commissioner. "We anticipate more opportunities for small businesses and local filmmakers. The film and television industry is an economic accelerator that will benefit our municipalities. 

For more information on the local Film and Television Production Incentive Program, visit FilmBroward.org.