Columbus Motion Picture Incentive (CMPI)
Columbus Motion Picture Incentive (CMPI) supports filmmakers and production companies with film and television production incentives to encourage local hiring and strengthen Central Ohio’s film industry.
Funder: Greater Columbus Arts Council
Due Dates: October 7, 2026 (Applications open) | November 4, 2026, by 5 p.m. (Applications close) | December 4, 2026 (Notification)
Funding Amounts: Up to 10% of qualified Franklin County spending, capped at $30,000 per project; $120,000 total 2026 fund
Summary: Supports film productions that employ local talent, use regional resources, and strengthen Central Ohio’s film industry.
Key Information: Incentives are paid only after project completion and review of qualifying expenditures.
Description
The Columbus Motion Picture Incentive (CMPI), funded by the Greater Columbus Arts Council and reviewed by Film Columbus, encourages productions to hire local talent, use regional resources, and film in Central Ohio. It supports local filmmakers while connecting production activity with regional employment, spending, and growth of the creative economy. Local and international production companies may apply if they meet the program’s business, financing, and local production requirements.
Eligible projects include feature-length narrative films, documentaries, long-form specials, miniseries, series and television programming, music videos, commercial projects, and television pilots. Awards emphasize economic impact and workforce participation rather than artistic merit alone. Film experts assess local crew employment, regional filming days, estimated economic impact and tax revenue, commitments to additional productions, and the feasibility of completing the project.
