Since July 1, 2006, when the state's first-ever tax incentive program for film and digital media became effective, Connecticut has become a prime production location. More than 50 production companies have filmed movies, commercials, television shows and documentaries and spent more than $400 million in state.
In an effort to further grow the state’s film industry, the State of Connecticut, through the Office for Workforce Competitiveness and in partnership with the Commission on Culture & Tourism’s Film Division, awarded state funding to three institutions in June 2008 to establish the Film Industry Training Program, the first of its kind in Connecticut.
In establishing a skilled in-state film workforce, the training program will provide an additional incentive for producers to select Connecticut as the location for their films and television shows. The state’s strengthened film infrastructure will support a range of film and production projects, making it easier for production companies to execute long-term projects in Connecticut.
The training program is offered at three sites that were selected through a competitive solicitation process: Middlesex Community College in Middletown, Norwalk Community College in Norwalk and Quinnipiac University in Hamden. The program is designed for individuals who want to learn the basics of feature film and episodic television production and potentially pursue entry-level freelance work in the industry. Trainees also learn about union membership, which is required to work on the majority of productions in the state.
Applications to enter the Film Industry Training Program must be submitted electronically by June 30, 2008.
The Office for Workforce Competitiveness
The Office for Workforce Competitiveness (OWC) has a mandate to focus on coordinating the changes needed to prepare Connecticut’s workforce for the rapidly changing and competitive economy of the 21st Century. OWC reports directly to the Governor and provides policy advice on workforce investment matters. Under Public Act 04-212, the OWC is legislatively mandated to include policy and planning to advance Connecticut's competitiveness in the Knowledge Economy, including the advancement of skilled talent and innovation, as part of its overall mandate.
The Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism’s Film Division
The Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism’s Film Division provides fast and responsive service to the production companies filming throughout the state, providing production coordination and location assistance, working with production companies, state agencies, cities and towns, schools and privately-owned businesses and locations. The Commission assists production companies looking to film in the state with best operating procedures, permits and permissions, location identification, crew, accommodations, equipment, on-site support and other ongoing production-related activities.
