Lights, camera, Alberta! Boosting cultural industries

Lights, camera, Alberta! Boosting cultural industries

Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta’s government is boosting the economy by investing in cultural industries, putting a spotlight on Alberta for film, television, music and publishing opportunities.

Budget 2025 invests $8 million in the Alberta Media Fund to support the province’s creative sectors. This investment will continue the momentum of Alberta’s growing cultural industries by creating jobs and developing skilled local talent.

Behind the scenes, the Film and Television Tax Credit is revitalizing communities across the province, including communities in rural Alberta. These productions are expected to spend about $1.5 billion in Alberta across a range of industries, generating an estimated gross domestic product of $852 million and supporting more than 14,400 Albertan jobs.

“Our government’s investment into our cultural industries is putting Alberta on centre stage. By further supporting film, television, music and publishing, we are driving economic growth while sharing our culture and stories – provincially, nationally and internationally.”Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women

On National Canadian Film Day, our government recognizes how the cultural industries play a starring role in Alberta’s economy. Since 2020, film and television projects supported through the Alberta Media Fund have generated more than $35 million in spending in the province and created more than 450 jobs. From catering to construction supplies, accommodations, local rentals, transportation and more, film and television production strengthens the economy and creates jobs for Albertans in every corner of the province.

“Our film and television industry is not only a creative force but also a major contributor to Alberta’s economy. Through programs like the Film and Television Tax Credit, we are continually working to respond to industry needs, making sure Alberta remains a top destination for film and television productions.”Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade

Budget 2025 also commits $235 million to the Film and Television Tax Credit program over the next three years. The Film and Television Tax Credit program offers tax incentives and makes Alberta an attractive destination for medium- and large-scale productions. Since its inception in 2020, more than 200 productions have leveraged the Film and Television Tax Credit program, with many more on the way.

“The continuing support of Alberta’s government for the creative economy enables us to attract world-renowned projects, share Alberta’s unique stories with global audiences and drive growth in the province’s economy and job market.”Luke Azevedo, CEO, Edmonton Screen

“I’m proud to see Alberta continuing to build momentum in the film and television industry. There’s a renewed energy and programs here in the province geared to developing new talent and crew. With initiatives and ongoing discussions, I hope for Alberta to stay well-positioned to remain competitive on the global stage while simultaneously developing our own local Canadian talent.”Martin Cochingco, professional stunt performer, co-owner of the Stunt Gym

Alberta’s film and television industry is vital to the province’s economy. The government’s continued investment in the Alberta Media Fund and Film and Television Tax Credit program will support economic growth, create jobs, ensure competitiveness and attract investment.

Alberta is primed for the limelight, and the government will continue to position the province as a premier destination for the film and television industry.

Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on strengthening our economy.

By Rajeev Sharma

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