When it comes to filmmaking, New Jersey has it all: locations, crew, support services, studios, and a competitive tax credit program. This powerful combination has attracted productions of every scale and record revenues, totaling $1.5 billion since 2018.
While this dramatic increase in production means more business, more jobs, and greater spend in the state, however, it also requires higher levels of engagement from our cities and towns. The Film Ready New Jersey program is designed to ensure excellent cooperation and a positive experience for all. As a result, towns become better prepared for the workload and public safety surrounding motion picture, while producers can choose a Film Ready Community that is well-versed in the process of filmmaking. Launched as a pilot in Somerset County in September 2022, the Film Ready New Jersey program is set to extend statewide this spring.
An initiative of the NJMPTVC, Film Ready New Jersey is a 5-step certification and marketing program that educates municipalities on the basics of motion picture and television production and enables cities and towns to effectively accommodate on location filming and market their communities as filming destinations. The program sets basic standards for attracting filmmaking and positions the state as a top production destination. The “film-ready” designation provides an elevated platform for certified communities to promote themselves as filming destinations and connects film and TV professionals with skilled and knowledgeable liaisons across the state, who can provide local expertise and support to create easier, faster and better access to nearby resources and location information.
Municipal governments will be invited to participate in a one-day workshop, the first step towards certification. Representatives will receive training and guidance from industry professionals, local mayors and NJMPTVC Commissioners and staff, and learn about the economic impact of hosting on-location filming, ordinances and permitting, opportunities for small businesses, and the expanding infrastructure. Participants will walk away with a toolkit to attract and welcome productions to their community and learn about the necessary steps required to become a certified Film Ready Community. The day will end with a fireside chat featuring other Mayors and industry professionals who’ve seen success in this industry.
The workshop will also feature Film Ready Police + Fire, designed to educate and train police and fire chiefs in public safety and motion picture and entertainment safety.
While the rollout will take place over the course of the entire year, we are working hard to ensure that all municipalities have the opportunity to register. Interested municipalities can learn more about the Film Ready program and upcoming workshops, which will launch on the commission’s website in March. Sign up now to receive information on how to prepare for the workshop and certification by registering here.
Click here for photos of film ready locations in Somerset County
Questions can also be directed to Elizabeth Parchment at Elizabeth.parchment@njeda.gov.
Official Site of The State of New Jersey