The success of the North Bay film industry is built on relationships

Collaboration is essential for the City of North Bay and its many partners when it comes to the local multi-million dollar film and television industry.

A new initiative – a directory of goods and services designed to connect local businesses with players in the film and television industry – was launched on Friday, the culmination of a partnership between the City, the North Bay Chamber of Commerce and the district and Tourism North Bay.

Film production is big business, as evidenced by the local economic impact of over $ 31 million this year and is still seen as a growing industry in the region despite a jolt in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic. 19. Activity has resumed in North Bay and the region this year with 17 productions and a total of 207 filming days in 87 different locations.

See linked: $ 150 million film deal for northern Ontario

Businesses and productions are poised to take advantage of the directory. From retail and dining to specialty items, aesthetics and health services, the guide will direct visiting cast and team members to local businesses interested in building and nurturing relationships. business within the industry. The new roster will also feature growing local filming infrastructure services and providers.

“We have worked hard to support the film and television industry over the past few years, as we know the important role it can play in helping to develop the city’s economy and culture,” said Mayor Al McDonald at a media event, Friday. “The industry has created local employment opportunities and businesses like hotels, restaurants, gas stations and hardware stores all take advantage when movie productions hit town.”

The new guide will be launched in early 2022 and made available to productions that plan to start filming in the region in the spring. Companies interested in having their products or services included in the guide are invited to register here.

The success of the North Bay film industry is also seen as a partnership between levels of government.

“The Film Production Guide is a win-win solution for our local economy and the film and television industry,” said Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli. “Our region has experienced millions of economic spinoffs. That’s why our government is committed to making Ontario open to the film and television industry for doing business by providing investment through the Northern Heritage Corporation of Ontario and help with their eligibility for the tax credit.

See also: The film industry’s incentives are the giveaways that keep on giving

“Local businesses and film and television companies that have chosen to come to the Nipissing-Timiskaming area for their production will work together,” said Nipissing-Timiskaming MPP Anthony Rota. “The film and television industry is a growing sector for our region and partnerships like this are essential to maintain this growth and momentum for everyone to prosper. “

And: Major funding for cinema in North Bay

As part of the ongoing efforts to support local businesses and continue to attract film and television productions, the City of North Bay Economic Development Department has released a new video showcasing the variety of local industry supports. and growing infrastructure:

“Every dollar spent in the District by this industry is great for the local business community and we are delighted to be partnering with this initiative,” said Peter Chirico, President and CEO of NBDCC.

Meanwhile, Managing Director Steve Dreany said, “Tourism North Bay recognizes the contribution of the film industry to the economy of North Bay, and more specifically to the hospitality industry. It is for this reason that we are pleased to partner with the City of North Bay and the Chamber of Commerce.
provide this resource to connect production companies and cinema-friendly businesses.