The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and Northwest Territories (NWT) Film Commission are proud to announce a significant expansion and enhancement of the NWT Film Rebate Program to support the continued growth of the territory’s film and media sector. Now in its ninth year, the program will receive an annual budget increase, growing from $100,000 in 2015 to $500,000 for 2024-2025, with a further increase to $1 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year and beyond.

Updated guidelines simplify the application process, improve administrative efficiency, and adjust rebate criteria to prioritize projects that bring the greatest economic and professional benefits to NWT businesses and film suppliers. The revised program will also open eligibility to new project types that align with NWT’s goals, such as commercials and music videos. It may also allow for multi-year funding for productions that span more than one fiscal year.

Since its launch in 2015, the NWT Film Rebate Program has supported 20 projects with $1 million in funding, contributing over $8 million in direct spending to the NWT economy, which rises to $11.6 million when accounting for multiplier effects. For every dollar invested, the program has generated an estimated $8.90 in economic activity in the NWT’s film and media sector.

The expanded budget and program changes reflect the NWT Film Commission’s commitment to fostering a sustainable film industry that enhances local employment, promotes Northern storytelling, and stimulates economic growth. With increased funding and updated guidelines, the NWT Film Commission anticipates greater interest and investment in film production across the Northwest Territories.

It also supports the GNWT’s mandate commitment to strengthen the economic foundation of the territory by encouraging a diverse range of economic activities, promoting entrepreneurship, streamlining administrative processes, and leveraging opportunities in all regions.

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“The expansion of the NWT Film Rebate Program marks a major milestone that will drive economic growth and help foster a diverse, thriving media sector in the territory. With new resources and expanded eligibility, we are excited to welcome a broader range of projects that will showcase the Northwest Territories' unique stories, landscapes, and cultures to the world.”

• Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Industry, Tourism, and Investment

Quick Facts

• The NWT Film Rebate Program will receive an annual budget increase, growing from $100,000 in 2015 to $500,000 in 2024-2025 and further to $1 million annually starting in 2025-2026. Eligible support now includes up to 50% of additional shipping costs, capped at $30,000 per applicant.
• Rebate rates have been updated by project type, offering 40% for scripted film and television, 30% for documentaries, and 20% for commercials and music videos – types of projects that are now eligible under the program.
• Since 2015, the NWT Film Rebate Program has contributed over $8 million in direct spending to the NWT economy, which totals $11.6 million with multiplier effects, generating $8.90 for every dollar invested.
• Annual budget increases for the program have been supported by MLAs, who expressed an interest in and advocated for film funding during the 2024-2025 budgeting process.
• The new policy and structure for the program is set to take effect December 1, 2024.

Related Links

• Film Rebate | NWT Film Commission
• NWT Film Rebate Program | Industry, Tourism and Investment
• Support for Film | Industry, Tourism and Investment

For media requests, please contact:
Melvin Leonard
Assistant Director, Strategic Communications
Department of Industry, Tourism, and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
ITIcommunications@gov.nt.ca
(867) 767-9202 ext. 63038