What is Film Florida?
Founded in 1999, Film Florida is a mostly volunteer run and membership funded organization focused on the promotion and growth of Florida’s film industry. Through activities like scholarships, member councils, and strategic influence, Film Florida seeks to support all sectors of the film business and to strengthen existing local projects.
Supporting Existing Projects and Drawing New Ones!
In addition to supporting local filmmakers and their work, Film Florida is consistently working to entice upcoming and big-budget projects to the Sunshine State. Some of these efforts, of course, are concentrated on collaborating with law makers and engaging in legislative positioning in order to develop bipartisan support for economic incentives and favorable conditions for out-of-state projects. Film Florida works in conjunction with all governmental levels (state, county, and municipal) to create these incentives. While the last attempted measure did not pass, organization members and volunteers are always working to improve these proposals for their optimum potential and opportunity.
Of course, another HUGE piece of attracting new filming projects to Florida is — marketing! Florida is an awesome state with lots of great weather, talented professionals, and beautiful backdrops and locations. Film Florida’s sizzle reel demonstrates our state’s ability to provide these amazing locations for popular films.
Podcast
As with any good 2021 community engagement strategy, Film Florida has a podcast! Currently preparing for season 4, Executive Director John Lux introduces listeners to different influential professionals within the Florida landscape. Previous guests have included art directors, actors, and publicists. Through special guests and topical deep dives, the podcast reveals the story of filming in Florida and its relationship to our overall economy and success. You can find their past episodes on the website or download the Film Florida show on Apple Podcasts, Podbean, Stitcher and others.
Memberships
Film Florida is primarily funded by its beneficial membership program. Memberships are available for both individuals and corporations and provide members with unique opportunities, such as access to specialized membership councils, networking connections, promotional support, and career development. No matter how experienced the individual or large the company, potential members can benefit from Film Florida’s perks!
A variety of levels and membership types are available. A standard individual membership costs $75 a year and includes benefits such as a listing on the Film Florida website, eligibility to vote on council actions, social media mentions, and annual gifts. Conversely, the most expensive corporate memberships costs $10,000 a year and includes two individual memberships for qualified employees, key note speaking options, premium website listings, and the ability to use the Film Florida logo on their own stationary. You can view all of the available membership levels and their applicable benefits on Film Florida’s website.
Scholarships and Awards
In the spirit of supporting our local filmmakers and industry professionals, Film Florida offers several awards and scholarships. Let’s take a look at some of those opportunities:
Legends Award
Created to honor those individuals most responsible for the growth and edification of Florida’s film industry, Legends Award recipients have included Burt Reynolds, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, and Dee Miller. Future recipients are nominated by organization members and selected by the Legends committee – a cross section of individuals from across multiple councils, Executive Board leaders, and previous award winners.
Don Davis Film Finishing Fund
The Don Davis Fund provides both monetary and in kind gifts to deserving filmmakers looking to finish quality, in-progress film projects. Applications for this support are accepted throughout the year and requests will be evaluated individually.
These are just a couple of example of the available awards and support available to accomplished and novice Florida filmmakers. To view the complete list, visit the “Resources” tab on Film Florida’s website!
Keep in Touch with Film Florida!
As our state continues to evolve, it’s vital to continue diversifying our economy and industries. While we already have an active filming landscape, Film Florida is dedicated to the expansion and growth of this lucrative business.
The best way you can support these efforts is to join the team! You can become a member no matter what your area of expertise, level of experience, or current employment status within the industry! If membership doesn’t feel right at this time, you can give a donation using PayPal.
And, of course, follow their social media! You can find Film Florida on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
If you would like to suggest an influential individual or nonprofit for our local profile series, please email krysti@orlandodecoded.com.
