A shot of a digitally-altered version of the Lethbridge river valley and high-level bridge, which was shown in HBO's The Last of Us. The Government of Alberta is expanding tax credits for the film and television industry, April 14, 2023. (Photo: HBO / City of Lethbridge)

By Pattison Media Staff

Province announces more tax and funding support for Alberta’s film and TV industry

Apr 14, 2023 | 10:39 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Provincial officials say Alberta’s screen-based sector has momentum and the government is aiming to make the province a magnet for the film and television industry.

In 2020, the Government of Alberta launched the Film and Television Tax Credit, which it said to have led to the province’s film and television industry growing in size and reputation.

Since then, Alberta attracted 129 productions with a total production value of $1.7 billion. The government said this growth has resulted in approximately 9,000 direct and indirect jobs for Albertans.

The province is increasing the tax credit’s cap to $335 million over three years.

Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development Brian Jean said the province is becoming a top Canadian jurisdiction for producers from around the world.

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“Since the introduction of the Film and Television Tax Credit, the film and television sector in Alberta has doubled,” said Jean. “Productions reach every part of Alberta – big cities, small towns and rural locations – and use local resources, businesses, accommodations and contractors, supporting thousands of jobs.”

Funding to the Alberta Made Screen Industries Program, which supports local film producers, is also set to double.

Minister of Culture Jason Luan said Alberta-made film and TV productions showcase the province’s unique culture, landscapes, and stories around the world.

“We are increasing our support to smaller productions because they provide a unique Alberta-made training ground for emerging talent and create local, highly skilled workers in the sector,” said Luan.

Provincial officials say the Film and Television Tax Credit and Alberta Made Screen Industries Program work together to showcase the beauty and diversity of Alberta, create jobs, diversify the economy and support hospitality, service and tourism in the province.

According to Damian Petti, President of I.A.T.S.E. Local 212 Calgary, the tax credits are central to the success of the film and TV industry.

“This is a competitive industry globally, and here in Alberta we’re fortunate we had the cap removed. Now we can see productions with budgets from $100,000 to well over $100 million. Now that we have a robust production environment, there are more opportunities for people to have well-paying creative jobs,” said Petti.

According to Statistics Canada, for every $1 million spent on film and TV production in Alberta, approximately 13 jobs are created. The agency adds that 85 jobs are supported in the province for every $1 million the provincial government invests under the Film and Television Tax Credit.

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