North Dakota

North Dakota: Locations and Support State

North Dakota currently does not offer a statewide production incentive in the form of a tax credit, rebate, or general-purpose film grant program for incoming productions. The official Film North Dakota page states plainly that the state of North Dakota currently has no incentives for productions. Instead, the Tourism Division of the Department of Commerce serves as the first point of contact and offers operational support services.

Available Support

• Location scouting assistance
• Online film directory of local talent and services
• Photo and film assets
• Permitting assistance
• Destination contacts

Historical Grant Activity

North Dakota has at times offered targeted grant opportunities related to motion picture production and recruitment. The Department of Commerce's 2023 Motion Picture Production and Recruitment Grant page shows the state had appropriated $600,000 for eligible organizations during the biennium ending June 30, 2025. However, that initiative was a time-bound grant opportunity rather than a standing statewide screen incentive program of the sort operated by the major U.S. film states.

Notes for Producers

North Dakota is best understood as a locations-and-support state rather than an incentive jurisdiction. A project may still find value in North Dakota's landscapes, tourism support, or local contacts, but it should not be modeled financially as a market offering an active statewide film credit or rebate at this time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the North Dakota film tax credit?

North Dakota offers a No Program tax credit, structured as a No Active Program, with an annual program cap of N/A. The program is designed to attract film and television productions by offsetting a portion of qualifying local expenditures.

How much is the North Dakota film tax credit?

The North Dakota tax credit is No Program, structured as a No Active Program. The exact rate your production qualifies for may depend on factors such as local hiring, filming location, and production type.

What is the minimum spend to qualify for the North Dakota film tax credit?

Productions must meet a minimum spend threshold of N/A in North Dakota to be eligible. Spend typically includes below-the-line costs incurred within the region, though qualifying criteria vary by program — consult the local film office for the full eligibility rules.

Is there a cap on the North Dakota film tax credit?

Yes. The North Dakota program has a program-wide cap of N/A and a per-project cap of N/A. Productions should apply early, as allocations can be limited.

How do I apply for the North Dakota film tax credit?

Productions typically apply through the North Dakota film office or the relevant government agency. Applications are generally submitted before principal photography begins, with final certification issued after production is complete and qualified spend is audited. Check the official film office website for current application guidelines, deadlines, and required documentation.