The City of Portland has announced that effective immediately it will subsidize the permit fees for all commercial and advertising shoots produced in the city through December 31, 2023.
While it appears the nationwide Writers Guild of America and Screen Actors Guild strikes that have been in place since May are close to ending, the impact of the months-long work stoppage will be felt in the industry for some time to come. The need to support Portland’s local industry has become paramount, while at the same time respecting the rights of workers and their efforts through their unions.
“Becoming one of the first cities in the country to subsidize fees directly aligns with our reputation as a film-friendly destination,” said Commissioner Carmen Rubio. “Recognizing that commercial and advertising production shoots have been allowed to continue throughout the strikes, it is imperative the City take steps now to support and encourage our local creative community and industry.”
“Recent strikes have highlighted our artists’ enduring strength and value,” said Portland City Commissioner Dan Ryan. “These artists’ creative spirit forms the essence of Portland’s cultural fabric. Our central goal is to support and cultivate our arts community to guarantee its sustained prosperity and ongoing capacity to inspire.”
Portland is often a sought-after location for commercial shoots because of its proximity to Los Angeles, its quick access to coastal and forest terrain, and its streamlined permitting systems. The film production and media industry has brought almost $700 million into the local economy over the past five years and further solidified Portland’s reputation as one of the top locations to produce movies, TV shows, and commercials.
“I’m grateful the City recognizes the value of our local film industry and is taking steps to support us in a very challenging year,” said Mike Neal, local film worker and co-chair of the Oregon Media Production Association’s advocacy committee. “Commercials and other short-form productions have helped keep our crews and local businesses afloat during the ongoing strikes in Hollywood. The City’s resolution to subsidize permit fees for commercial shoots will help local producers while also boosting Portland’s image as a film-friendly city and commercial production hub.”
“Portland’s strategic permit subsidy will empower filmmakers, streamline the process for commercial productions, maximize resources, and foster economic growth,” said James Ridley, location manager for Awfully Good Company LLC. “This approach not only enhances Portland's allure but also fuels local crew hires, hotels, taxes, and dining establishments, showcasing the symbiotic relationship between filmmaking and our city’s prosperity.”
This announcement was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Commissioners Rubio and Ryan, the Oregon Media Production Association, Oregon Film, and the Portland Events and Film Office at Prosper Portland.