1. Film Tax Credit

  • West Virginia offers a competitive film tax credit program designed to attract filmmakers and encourage local production.
  • The state’s film tax credit provides a refundable credit of up to 31% on qualified in-state expenditures, including wages paid to West Virginia residents and purchases or rentals from local vendors.
  • The film tax credit program serves as a catalyst for economic growth, fostering job creation, investment, and local industry development.

2. Natural Beauty and Diverse Locations

  • West Virginia boasts breathtaking landscapes, ranging from majestic mountains to picturesque rivers, forests, and charming small towns, offering an array of versatile and unique filming locations.
  • Filmmakers can take advantage of West Virginia’s diverse terrain, providing the opportunity to create visually compelling and diverse storytelling experiences.

3. Cost Savings and Production Value

  • West Virginia’s lower production costs, compared to other filming destinations, can significantly stretch a filmmaker’s budget.
  • The lower cost of living, competitive labor rates, and favorable business environment contribute to overall cost savings for productions.
  • The state’s film tax credit program further enhances cost savings, allowing filmmakers to reinvest savings into production quality, talent, or marketing efforts.

4. Collaborative and Supportive Community

  • West Virginia fosters a collaborative and supportive community for filmmakers, offering access to local talent, experienced crew members, and a thriving creative network.
  • The state’s film industry professionals and film-related organizations provide invaluable assistance, from location scouting to post-production services, ensuring a seamless filmmaking experience.

5. Economic Impact and Job Creation

  • Film productions in West Virginia generate substantial economic benefits for the state and local communities. For example, Georgia had a net impact in 2016 of $2.8 billion to the state economy. That amount grew to $4.4 billion in 2022. (Georgia Department of Audits & Accounts)
  • Film production spending contributes to increased business revenue, job creation, and tourism-related activities. For example, $60 million soundstage in Athens, GA; $144 million studio in Covington; NBC studios expansion to create 4,000 new jobs. (Georgia Department of Audits & Accounts)
  • The film tax credit program acts as a catalyst, attracting both local and out-of-state productions, resulting in direct and indirect economic impact, including job creation and increased spending on local goods and services. For example, 80% of film industry jobs within the state of Georgia were held by Georgia residents. (Georgia Department of Audits & Accounts)

Come to Appywood

West Virginia, a state renowned for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unique landscapes, holds immense potential as a prime destination for filmmakers seeking captivating backdrops and substantial economic benefits. We believe there is a compelling argument for filmmakers to choose West Virginia as their filming location, with a focus on the state’s film tax credit program and the wealth of advantages it offers. Supported by data and evidence, there are opportunities for creative expression, cost savings, and economic growth that filmmakers can experience in the Mountain State.

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