Texas

(Division of the Office of the Governor) Texas offers a competitive grant program (not a tax credit), meaning the incentive is paid directly as a cash grant once production is verified. Texas's combination of diverse landscapes (Gulf Coast, desert West Texas, Hill Country, urban centers), large local crew base, Austin's creative economy, and strong infrastructure make it a major production destination. The TMIIP was restructured in 2023 to improve competitiveness.

Eligibility

• Minimum Texas spend: $250,000 qualifying in-state expenditures
• for feature films and TV series
• $50,000 for standalone pilots
• Eligible Types: Feature films, TV series, pilots, streaming originals,
• animation, commercials, music videos, documentary
• political advertising, obscene content
• Key Requirement: Production must be approved before principal photography
• begins in Texas. Applications submitted to Texas Film Commission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Texas film grant?

Texas offers a 5-31% grant, structured as a Cash Grant, with an annual program cap of $300M per biennium ($1.5B over 10 years through 2035). The program is designed to attract film and television productions by offsetting a portion of qualifying local expenditures.

How much is the Texas film grant?

The Texas grant is 5-31%, structured as a Cash Grant. 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 Texas film grant?

Productions must meet a minimum spend threshold of $250,000 in Texas 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 Texas film grant?

Yes. The Texas program has a program-wide cap of $300M per biennium ($1.5B over 10 years through 2035) and a per-project cap of None. Productions should apply early, as allocations can be limited.

How do I apply for the Texas film grant?

Productions typically apply through the Texas 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.