Georgia has emerged as a powerhouse in the film industry, rivaling Hollywood and New York as a top filming location. The state's growth in entertainment began with strategic tax incentives introduced in 2008, attracting major studios and independent filmmakers alike. Today, Georgia is home to numerous blockbuster productions, bringing in billions of dollars and creating countless opportunities for local businesses to thrive. But how does the movie industry help small businesses in Georgia? We’re here to answer this and many other questions about star-studded influences on the Peach State’s business environment.
Incentives Movie Companies Have to Film in Georgia
How could Georgia become the biggest state for the film industry in the US? It’s largely due to the Peach State’s competitive tax incentives. The Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act provides a 20% tax credit for productions that spend at least $500,000 in the state. This applies to a wide range of projects, including feature films, television series, commercials, and even music videos.
Additionally, productions can qualify for an extra 10% tax credit if they include the Georgia promotional logo in their film or television content. These incentives make Georgia an attractive alternative to Hollywood and other traditional production hubs, as they allow studios to cut costs significantly.
Beyond these direct financial benefits, Georgia also offers a streamlined application process through the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), ensuring that production companies can quickly access these tax breaks. The state’s commitment to supporting the film industry is evident in its investment in local infrastructure, including soundstages, post-production facilities, and a skilled workforce.
Thanks to these incentives, major franchises like Marvel Studios and The Walking Dead have chosen Georgia as a primary filming location, further solidifying its reputation as the "Hollywood of the South." With all of these incentives and support roles in place, the answer to how did Georgia grow their film industry becomes crystal clear. But what does this all mean for small business in the state? Let’s find out.
How the Movie Industry Helps Small Businesses in Georgia
The impact of the film industry in Georgia has been huge for small businesses in the state, and it doesn’t show signs of slowing down the upward trend. Here are examples of how the movie industry helps small businesses in Georgia:
Increased Revenue for Local Vendors
When film productions come to Georgia, they rely on local vendors for various needs, including catering, equipment rentals, and transportation. Small businesses providing these services see a surge in revenue, often securing long-term contracts that keep them financially stable.
Boost in Tourism and Hospitality
The success of Georgia’s film industry has led to an increase in film tourism. Fans travel from around the world to visit iconic filming locations, boosting revenue for local hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. This influx of tourists contributes to job creation and sustained growth in the hospitality sector.
Job Creation and Economic Growth
Film productions require a diverse range of skills, from set designers to security personnel. Many small businesses in Georgia benefit by offering specialized labor, whether in construction, makeup artistry, or costume design. If you’re looking to expand your services, hire more employees, or purchase new equipment, understanding how to qualify for a small business loan can provide the necessary funding to support your growth in this thriving industry.
Opportunities for Local Retailers
Retail stores, including boutiques and hardware suppliers, see increased business when productions purchase props, wardrobe pieces, and set materials. These opportunities provide consistent revenue and exposure for Georgia’s small businesses.
Strengthening the Local Creative Economy
The film industry fosters an ecosystem of creative professionals, including independent filmmakers, writers, and artists. In this instance, if you’re a small production company or content creator in Georgia, you could benefit from networking opportunities, collaborations, and even gain access to industry resources that help you grow your small business and expand your reach in the competitive entertainment market.
How Georgia’s Film Industry Impacts Real Estate and Infrastructure
Georgia’s film boom has increased demand for filming locations, rental properties, and housing for industry professionals. Real estate agents, property managers, and location scouts benefit as productions seek homes, warehouses, and commercial buildings for filming. Short-term rentals near studios have also surged, providing income for local property owners.
Infrastructure development has followed, with new soundstages, post-production facilities, and film-friendly housing being built across the state. Construction firms, electricians, and designers have gained steady work from these projects. Towns near major studios, such as Fayetteville’s Trilith Studios, have seen entire communities developed to support the industry. This ongoing investment strengthens Georgia’s film economy and benefits small businesses in real estate and construction.
Independent Filmmakers and the Growth of Georgia’s Film Ecosystem
While major studios bring significant revenue, Georgia’s independent filmmakers also fuel small business growth. Affordable locations, skilled crews, and tax incentives make the state an attractive hub for indie creators, benefiting rental companies, post-production studios, and set designers.
Film festivals like the Atlanta Film Festival further support small businesses, attracting filmmakers and audiences who spend at local restaurants, hotels, and venues. As Georgia’s independent film scene expands, small businesses in creative and service industries gain new opportunities, ensuring the industry’s economic impact reaches beyond big-budget productions.
How Rural Georgia Benefits from Film Productions
How does the movie industry help small businesses in terms of outpost communities and rural areas? The answer lies in catering to film productions in rural Georgia, which brings economic opportunities to small towns. Crews need lodging, catering, and local services, providing a boost to hotels, restaurants, and suppliers. Some towns, like Senoia (The Walking Dead), have transformed into film tourism destinations, creating long-term business growth.
Rural locations also offer cost-effective filming alternatives, attracting productions outside Atlanta. Many local governments actively market their towns to filmmakers, ensuring a steady flow of projects. By spreading production across the state, Georgia ensures that small businesses in rural communities also benefit from the industry’s success.
