WILMINGTON, N.C. (NCN News) — Governor Josh Stein and Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley toured Cinespace Studios in Wilmington Tuesday (Sept. 15) and discussed the impacts of changes to the state’s film incentive program to North Carolina’s economy.
“North Carolina’s film industry is an important part of our economy, supporting thousands of jobs and bringing millions in investment to our state,” said Governor Josh Stein in a press release. “We must protect that success and give productions the certainty they need to continue to invest here for the long term.”
“Our film industry creates great jobs while putting the best of our state on screen for the world to see,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “We are committed to working with the General Assembly to find a solution that will keep cameras rolling across North Carolina.”
Through the North Carolina Film and Entertainment Grant Program, the state offers film production companies financial rebates of up to 25% on qualified in-state production expenses as its film incentive. Nearly 60 productions were filmed across North Carolina in 2024, generating more than $302 million in direct in-state spending. Over the past 10 years, productions spent more than $1.3 billion while in North Carolina, bringing nearly 67,000 job opportunities to the state. Recent high-profile projects have included Season 1 and 2 of “RJ Decker,” Season 2 of “Beast Games,” Season 23 of “Top Chef,” and Seasons 1 and 2 of “The Hunting Wives.”
North Carolina boasts a workforce of more than 4,000 film professionals and thousands of quality film locations. In addition to a 25% rebate through the North Carolina Film and Entertainment Grant Program, the state offers established filming infrastructure, an easy-to-navigate and reliable incentive program, expedited production schedules, and communication assistance with private and public groups.