Miami-Dade County Sees Major Growth in Film Industry Thanks to New Incentive Program

Miami-Dade County is experiencing a significant rise in film and television productions, mainly due to the “High Impact Film Fund Program” introduced by Senator René García. This new incentive is designed to attract high-budget productions to the area, boosting the local economy and creating job opportunities.

The program offers a performance-based rebate to productions spending at least $5 million, with eligible projects receiving up to 20% back on their investments. With an annual allocation of $10 million, the fund requires that 90% of production work occur within Miami-Dade County.

Two significant productions—Netflix’s medical drama Pulse and Paramount Pictures’ Dexter: Origins—have already begun filming in the area, injecting about $12 million into the local economy. These projects have created jobs, supported small businesses, and provided valuable industry experience to local students.

While no rebates have been issued yet—since funds are only released after receipts verify production expenses—this system ensures accountability. It confirms that the incentives are genuinely benefiting Miami-Dade’s economy.

Commissioner García and Marco Giron, Director of the Miami-Dade Office of Film & Entertainment, are exploring ways to expand the program. One idea is to involve smaller productions, mainly through co-productions where filming may occur abroad, but post-production takes place locally. This could attract a more diverse range of projects to the county.

Miami-Dade has already hosted various projects this year, including commercials for Sailor Jerry rum and Gray Goose vodka and an episode of Swamp People focused on Everglades pythons. These projects showcase the region’s versatility as a filming location.

To qualify for the production incentive, one must meet several criteria. At least 60% of crew members must be Miami-Dade residents, and 70% of vendors and contractors must be registered county businesses. Upon completion, an independent audit conducted by a certified Florida CPA at the production’s expense is required. Productions must also display a logo the Miami-Dade Office of Film & Entertainment provides.

These requirements ensure that the economic benefits of filming stay within the county, helping to develop the local film industry further.