Tennessee

Tennessee is anchored by Nashville, the world's music capital and a rapidly growing film/TV production destination, and Memphis, which offers a distinct Southern Gothic identity, blues heritage, and Mississippi Delta setting. The state's diverse landscape includes Great Smoky Mountains, rolling farmland, and the Tennessee River valley. Nashville's explosive population growth has made it an increasingly attractive modern urban backdrop alongside its music industry infrastructure.

Eligibility

• Minimum TN spend: $200,000 qualifying Tennessee expenditures
• Eligible Types: Feature films, TV series, pilots, streaming originals,
• music videos, commercials, documentaries

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Tennessee film grant?

Tennessee offers a 25% grant; 40-50% payroll credit grant, structured as a Grant / Tax Credit, with an annual program cap of Varies by program. The program is designed to attract film and television productions by offsetting a portion of qualifying local expenditures.

How much is the Tennessee film grant?

The Tennessee grant is 25% grant; 40-50% payroll credit, structured as a Grant / Tax Credit. 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 Tennessee film grant?

Productions must meet a minimum spend threshold of $200,000 (features); $500K/ep (TV) in Tennessee 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 Tennessee film grant?

Yes. The Tennessee program has a program-wide cap of Varies by program and a per-project cap of None stated. Productions should apply early, as allocations can be limited.

How do I apply for the Tennessee film grant?

Productions typically apply through the Tennessee 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.