Mayor Saffo Joins Film Industry Roundtable in Wilmington

Published on September 21, 2026

Mayor Bill Saffo joined Gov. Josh Stein, N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley and local film industry leaders at Cinespace Studios in Wilmington to discuss recent changes to North Carolina’s film incentive program and what they could mean for Wilmington’s film industry.

The roundtable brought together representatives from the North Carolina Film Office, Wilmington Regional Film Commission, Cinespace Studios, Dark Horse Stages, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), and local producers. The conversation focused on the state of the film industry, the importance of production incentives, and the need for greater certainty as productions consider where to film.

North Carolina’s film industry has become an established part of the state’s economy, with Wilmington serving as one of its major production hubs. Over the years, the industry has supported a network of local crews, studios, vendors, production companies, educational programs and other businesses.

In 2024, more than 55 productions filmed across North Carolina, generating more than $302 million in direct in-state spending — the second-highest year since the current Film and Entertainment Grant program began in 2015.

The state reported an estimated $185.5 million in direct in-state spending from film and television production in 2025, supporting more than 7,000 jobs statewide.

North Carolina’s Film and Entertainment Grant provides rebates of up to 25% of qualified in-state production expenses. Productions must meet spending requirements and complete the project before receiving grant funds following an audit.

The program has changed over time as North Carolina has worked to attract film and television productions and build its industry. Recent changes have increased the maximum grant amounts available for individual productions, while questions remain about available funding for future projects.

At the roundtable, local industry representatives discussed how uncertainty around the program can affect decisions about where productions choose to film and the businesses and workers that depend on those productions.

Mayor Saffo joined industry representatives in emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong production environment in North Carolina and Wilmington.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of having a predictable incentive program as productions plan projects, negotiate locations, and make long-term business decisions.

The roundtable provided an opportunity for state and local leaders to hear directly from the people working in the industry, and to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing film production in Wilmington and across North Carolina.