Economic Benefits of the SDC Film Initiative

The San Diego County Film Initiative is more than a cultural investment—it’s a powerful economic development engine designed to generate lasting returns for the region. By supporting local production through clear policy, permitting access, and the SDVibe Rebate Program, the initiative brings new revenue, job growth, and infrastructure investment directly into our communities.

• Local Spending: Productions spend millions on lodging, food, rentals, permits, and local vendors. Even small productions can inject thousands per day into neighborhood economies.

• Job Creation: Each project supports dozens to hundreds of jobs—crew, trades, performers, drivers, caterers, security, and beyond.

• Revenue Recycling: Rebated dollars flow back through payroll taxes, small business sales, and reinvestment in the creative economy.

In its first year alone, the Film Initiative is projected to:

• Generate $25–40 million in new production spending. 

• Support 500+ local jobs across production tiers

• Return $5–7 in regional economic activity for every $1 rebated

• Strengthen San Diego County’s brand through increased media exposure, tourism value, and national recognition

These figures are based on conservative modeling from the SDVibe program’s structure:

• With a $2.5 million Year One rebate pool and rebate caps of up to 35%, total qualified spending could reach $7–12 million, with broader spending pushing the annual total well past $25 million when indirect impacts are included.

• Independent state studies (e.g., New Mexico, Georgia, New York) consistently show returns between $4 and $8 for every $1 rebated—validating our estimate of $5–7 ROI.

• Based on the number of supported productions (up to 20), and average local job counts per shoot, 500+ job opportunities is a grounded and achievable projection.

• For every $1 rebated through SDVibe, local communities stand to gain $5 to $7 in direct and indirect economic activity.

• A single season of a TV show can generate over $5 million in local economic activity.

• Local hiring and training programs further amplify long-term gains by building a skilled workforce.

• Vendors & Services: San Diego’s small businesses—from equipment rental houses and costume shops to coffee shops and hardware stores—benefit directly from production spending.

• Hospitality Sector: Hotels, short-term rentals, and catering services all see measurable boosts during production cycles.