Everything you need to know about North Carolina's Film and Entertainment Grant Program -- step by step, from application to payout.
On qualifying in-state production spend
Recurring starting amount per fiscal year
No fees to apply -- rebate paid after completion
Submit the NC Film Office's "Intent to Film" form with your production details, projected spend, and timeline.
The NC Film Office reviews your Intent form and determines if your production qualifies. They contact you with next steps.
If eligible, the Film Office sends you the official Film and Entertainment Grant Application. Complete and return it with all required documentation.
The Secretary of Commerce reviews and approves your application. You sign a grant agreement locking in the terms before principal photography begins.
Film your project in NC. Track all in-state qualifying expenses carefully. Maintain detailed records of purchases and payroll.
After wrap, submit your expense documentation for a mandatory audit. An independent CPA verifies all qualifying spend.
Once the audit is complete and approved, NC issues your 25% rebate payment. The grant is paid directly to the production company.
Not every production qualifies. The NC Film and Entertainment Grant is designed for professional, commercially distributed productions that make a meaningful economic impact in the state. Here's what you need to know:
| Production Type | Minimum NC Spend | Maximum Grant Award |
|---|---|---|
| Feature-Length Film | $1,500,000 | $7,000,000 |
| TV Series (per season) | $500,000/episode avg | $15,000,000 |
| Made-for-TV Movie | $500,000 | $7,000,000 |
| Commercial | $250,000 | $250,000 |
Minimum spend thresholds are for direct in-state purchases and wages only. Expenses incurred outside North Carolina do not count toward the minimum.
The process begins with a simple Intent to Film form and progresses to a formal application. Here's the sequence:
Start the process early. Submit your Intent to Film form well before pre-production begins. The Film Office needs time to review, and your grant agreement must be signed before principal photography starts.
The 25% rebate applies to qualifying purchases made in North Carolina and qualifying wages paid to NC-based workers. Here's what counts:
Expenses paid to out-of-state vendors, above-the-line talent fees for non-NC residents, insurance premiums paid to out-of-state carriers, and any costs incurred outside North Carolina are excluded.
Every production receiving the grant must include the following in their end credits:
As your production partner, we handle the regional coordination for you. We work directly with the Nash County film community and the NC Film Office to make sure every compliance requirement is met -- so you can focus on making your film.
No money changes hands until after production wraps and an independent audit confirms your qualifying spend. Here's the process:
The audit and payout process can take several months after production wraps. Plan your cash flow accordingly -- this is a rebate, not an advance. You will spend first and be reimbursed after verification.
For the most current information, application forms, and program guidelines, visit the official state resources below:
The NC Film Office is responsive and helpful. Don't hesitate to reach out to them directly with questions about your specific production.
Spring Hope Studios can guide you through every step of the incentive process. Let's talk about your project.
Contact Us Back to Main Site