Documentary series spotlights Kentucky General Assembly's initiatives to bolster the state's film and television industry
**Kentucky's Film and Television Industry Gets a Boost with the Establishment of the Kentucky Office of Film and Development**
In 2025, the Kentucky Office of Film and Development was established under the Cabinet for Economic Development, marking a significant step forward for the state's film and television industry. Sponsored by Sen. Phillip Wheeler, Senate Bill 1 created this office with the aim of enhancing and promoting Kentucky's film and television sector [1][2].
Before the establishment of the Kentucky Office of Film and Development, Kentucky had a film incentive program, but it lacked the necessary infrastructure to effectively attract and support film production. Senate Bill 1 addressed this issue by creating an office to administer the Kentucky Entertainment Incentive Program, which was further enhanced in 2021 to cap annual incentives at $75 million [1][2].
The film and television industry is recognised as a significant contributor to Kentucky's economy, particularly in boosting tourism. In 2024, approximately 80 million people visited Kentucky, generating $14.3 billion in economic impact and supporting over 97,000 jobs [1]. The new office aims to further leverage this potential by creating a more attractive environment for film and television production.
The office will focus on creating infrastructure necessary for film production, including a website to showcase potential filming locations and streamline permitting processes. This will help market Kentucky as a prime location for the film industry, mirroring successful models like Georgia's state-run website for filmmakers [2].
A key aspect of the office's role is facilitating the development of a skilled workforce in collaboration with film studios and training programs. This will help ensure that Kentucky has the talent needed to support a growing film industry [1].
One of the most anticipated series to benefit from this new initiative is You Belong Here, an eight-part docuseries that celebrates Kentucky's food culture and communities. Executive produced by Ouita Michel, Steve Zahn, and Rick Gomez, the series highlights four Kentucky-based projects at the Tribeca Film Festival and was selected for panels at Tribeca X in New York City and ATX Television Festival in Austin [3].
The Wrigley restaurant in Corbin is featured in You Belong Here, further showcasing Kentucky's culinary offerings. Senate President Robert Stivers stated that the series presents Kentucky's farm-to-table program, a national success story [4].
In addition to its economic benefits, the Kentucky Office of Film and Development will also work closely with local and regional film offices and tourism commissions to ensure that the benefits of the film industry are distributed across the state, not just in urban areas [1].
The Kentucky Office of Film and Development plays a crucial role in growing the state's film and television industry by administering incentives, marketing and infrastructure, workforce development, and community engagement. With its focus on creating a skilled workforce, streamlining permitting processes, and marketing Kentucky as a prime location for film production, the Kentucky Office of Film and Development is poised to elevate Kentucky's profile in the film and television industry, leveraging the state's natural beauty and cultural richness to attract more productions and stimulate economic growth.
References: [1] Kentucky Office of Film and Development (n.d.). Retrieved from https://cabinet.ky.gov/economic-development/film-and-media/ [2] Kentucky Film Office (2021). Retrieved from https://www.kentuckyfilm.org/ [3] You Belong Here (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.tribecafilm.com/filmguide/you-belong-here-2021 [4] Senate President Robert Stivers (2021, June 24). Retrieved from https://sg.ky.gov/legislation/2021rs/bill/sb/249/20210624/hb249_passed.htm
- The establishment of the Kentucky Office of Film and Development in Northern Kentucky, under the Cabinet for Economic Development, is expected to further boost the film and television industry in Kentucky.
- Senate Bill 1, which created the Kentucky Office of Film and Development, also improved the Kentucky Entertainment Incentive Program, aiming to enhance the state's cultural offerings for businesses and the community.
- Kentucky's sports and food culture will be highlighted in the anticipated series You Belong Here, executive produced by Ouita Michel, Steve Zahn, and Rick Gomez, which could potentially attract more film production to the region.
- The Kentucky Office of Film and Development will collaborate with local and regional film offices and tourism commissions, ensuring that the benefits of film development are distributed throughout the state, not just in urban areas.
