Kansas City Film Office
The Kansas City Film Office has become a prominent player in the regional film industry, leveraging the city’s diverse locations and talented local workforce to attract major film and television projects. Established to promote Kansas City as a premier filming destination, the office has successfully implemented robust incentive programs, including city and state tax credits, to encourage production activity. Since the inception of these initiatives, the city has seen a significant increase in film productions, including feature films and television projects, notably with projects like ‘Holiday Touchdown’ and ‘In Plain Sight.’ The office’s efforts have resulted in substantial economic benefits, with over $20 million in direct impact, supporting local businesses and workforce development. With ongoing strategic growth plans and incentives set through 2029, the Kansas City Film Office continues to position the city as a key hub for film production in the Midwest.
News Summary
Kansas City is rising as a leading filming hub in the Midwest, backed by strong local and state incentives. With the Show MO Act, filmmakers can receive a combined rebate of up to 52%, the highest in the U.S. In 2024, Kansas City hosted several films and shows, and the KC Film Office anticipates more growth in production. The incentives aim to boost local economy and workforce development, making Kansas City an attractive option for filmmakers.
Kansas City is rapidly emerging as a top filming destination in the Midwest, fueled by local and state incentives that attract major productions. With the passing of the Show MO Act in July 2023, Missouri has implemented a state tax credit program for film producers, offering up to 42% back on projects filmed in the state. Kansas City has added to this incentive with its own 10% city tax credit, allowing filmmakers to access a total rebate of up to 52%, making it the highest in the United States.
In just 2024 alone, Kansas City hosted nine feature films and several television projects, with expectations for an increase in production in 2025. Among the notable projects was “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story,” a Hallmark production that became the most-watched cable movie of the year.
The city’s attractive incentive program has developed significantly. Initially, the local rebate program started with a $75,000 budget and offered a 4% return. This has since grown to a 12% rebate with an allocative budget of $400,000 aimed at helping a greater number of productions. However, productions must hire at least five Kansas City residents to qualify for the city rebate; hiring up to 25 local residents can maximize returns.
Additionally, a new 2% bonus is available for film projects that provide student shadowing opportunities, further integrating the local workforce into the film industry. Local businesses are poised to benefit significantly from this surge in film activity, supplying various services to production teams.
The continued support from the KC Film Office has resulted in an estimated $20 million in direct economic impact upon the greater Kansas City area. Impressively, over 60% of films produced in Missouri using the tax credit have been filmed in Kansas City, underscoring the city’s growing prominence in the state’s film industry.
The Show MO Act has not only drawn attention from local filmmakers but also attracted projects from other states, including New Jersey and even Canada. A recent production titled “In Plain Sight” is currently in post-production for a major motion picture pitch after filming a trailer in Kansas City.
The KC Film Office also emphasizes the importance of workforce development, which is seen as essential to sustain a skilled crew base for upcoming projects. Kansas City is recognized for its diverse locations and strong local crew, which has proven appealing to filmmakers looking for unique backdrops.
Filmmakers have noted satisfaction with Kansas City’s competitive incentive offerings and the welcoming atmosphere of the local environment. This has enabled local film professionals to work closer to home without relocating to larger markets such as Los Angeles.
As of early February 2025, 39 productions have qualified for the Show Mo Tax Credit Program, contributing to an estimated $33.5 million in spending within the area. The ongoing tax incentive program is set to continue through December 31, 2029, as efforts are underway to further enhance the film production infrastructure in Kansas City.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kansas City Welcomes Casting Calls and Shark Tank Auditions
Casting Opportunities for Aspiring Actors in Kansas City
Kansas City Invites Extras for Hallmark Movie
Additional Resources
- Startland News: KC Film Tax Credits
- KCTV5: Kansas City’s Film Scene
- KSHB: Mayor Notes Growth in Film Industry
- Kansas City Magazine: Film Tax Credit
- LJ World: Kansas Film Tax Credit
- Wikipedia: Film Tax Incentives in the U.S.
- Google Search: Kansas City Film Industry News
- Google Scholar: Kansas City Film Production
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Film
- Google News: Kansas City Film Tax Credits
