PCs growing Manitoba’s film industry with new incentives and support to attract major motion pictures: Stefanson

WINNIPEG — To grow Manitoba’s film sector and ensure more movies showcase Manitoba-made music, a re-elected PC government will provide a bonus to productions that use local artists in their soundtracks, as well as invest in facilities to attract more Hollywood productions to Manitoba, PC Leader Heather Stefanson announced today.

“Film and television is more than what you see on screen. Soundtracks are also an essential part of telling a captivating story,” said Stefanson. “People around the world discover their new favourite songs on the shows they’re streaming every day. Let them discover Manitoba music.”

There were 88 film and TV productions worth $365 million made in Manitoba in 2021-22, more than double the $173 million spent by industry in 2016-17, Stefanson said. Today, the industry employs more than 2,000 Manitobans, with salaries and production spending going right back into the Manitoba economy and stimulating spin-off benefits across the province.

That is thanks to PC initiatives to support the film industry, first by introducing tax credits in 1997, and expanding them in 2020. The PCs also landed a new direct flight between Winnipeg and Los Angeles in 2022 to support the continued growth of the industry. If re-elected, the PCs will provide a 10% tax credit bonus if 50% or more of a production’s soundtrack uses Manitoba music, Stefanson said.

“I have a vision for Manitoba’s future, with endless opportunities and good jobs to go around as we prepare for two million people,” said Stefanson. “Stimulating industries that show promise is one way that we grow our population and create those opportunities; it’s why we are fighting for Manitoba film and music.”

A re-elected PC government will also commit $4.5 million to support film and TV productions by ensuring Manitoba has world-class soundstage facilities and the workers to continue attracting blockbuster productions, Stefanson said.

Just 15 minutes from the Winnipeg International Airport and downtown Winnipeg, Big Sky Studios is the largest facility of its kind in Manitoba.

“Manitoba needs a world-class studio to attract A-level productions and that is what Big Sky provides,” said Ed Kolic, CEO of Big Sky Studios. “We thank the PCs for their support and commitment to invest and grow the film and television industry in Manitoba. This positions the province to create hundreds of good-paying jobs and careers, and enables the arts community in Manitoba to grow and prosper here at home.”

Manitoba PCs are committed to making Manitoba’s economy more competitive to attract more business and workers to the province. Obby Khan, PC candidate for Fort Whyte, said he’s excited to see that Manitoba’s film industry has more than doubled its production volume since the PCs formed government in 2016.

“When you see Manitoba communities and hear Manitoba talent on the big screen, it makes you proud. We want to continue fostering that pride and the growth of our film and TV industry,” said Khan. “We are the only party working to diversify Manitoba’s economy, grow businesses, and create jobs by bringing new industries into our province. That will increase revenue to pay for the public services we all rely on.” 

The provincial election will be held on October 3, 2023.

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