TXMPA Announcement
With a stroke of the governor's pen earlier this month, a game and film industry incentive bill became law. What does that mean for us as game developers? Any project spending more than $100,000 in-state is eligible for a 5% cash incentive, with a cap of $250,000, from the State of Texas. While this is not a staggering amount, every bit counts, and, more importantly, the mere fact that we now have an incentive program on the books is a huge accomplishment.
The Texas Motion Picture Alliance (TXMPA), which, despite its name, also includes video games, will help organize the game and film industries as it prepares for the next legislative session in 2009. With this year's bill opening the door, we have the opportunity next session to expand the program and raise the cap on incentives. IGDA, other game organizations, and each of game industry professionals will play a role, as well, as we work to better organize ourselves and grow the Austin game economy.
So, what does this mean to you? In the short term, it means that there is money to be had to help build your business. Applications are posted to the Texas Film Commission's web site, www.texasfilmcommission.com/incentives, and additional details are below. Please spread the word. Apply if you wish. And get ready to get better organized, better informed and achieve better results during the 2009 legislative session.
For questions about the grant application process, please contact Katy Daiger, game industry liaison in the Texas Film Commission Office, 512-463-9200, katy.daiger -AT - governor.state.tx.us .
Best regards,
Rodney Gibbs
THE TEXAS MOVING IMAGE INDUSTRY INCENTIVE
Texas now offers grants to features, television programs, commercials, and video games that are produced in the state. Grants are equal to 5% of in-state spending, including wages paid to Texas residents, with a cap of $250,000 for video games. The grant is per project, and the money is available once the project is completed.
Qualifications
• $100,000 minimum in-state spending for a video game
• At least 70% of the total number of crew, cast and extras must be Texas residents
• At least 80% of the production must be completed in Texas
Application Process
The following must be received by the Texas Film Commission by 5pm CST on the business day prior to the principal start date:
• A completed Qualifying Application for the Moving Image Industry Incentive Program.
• An itemized budget.
• A full script, storyboards, and/or game design document.
Note that you have to apply with the state before you start the project. This is how the commission determines eligibility for the grant.
After approval of the Qualifying Application, a Grant Agreement based upon the estimated Texas expenditures will be executed between the production and the Texas Film Commission.
The applicant must present the project after completion for review. Grant money is available after the project is done, once a final expended budget has been received and final game content has been reviewed to determine if the applicant should receive the funding.
For more information about the grant, it's qualifications, and the application, please visit www.texasfilmcommission.com/incentives.
Posted by MarkRichards on June 29, 2007 04:08 AM
