Miami Beach Commemorates ‘Small But Mighty’ Film Incentive, Provides $25K to Assist Filmmakers in Promoting Their Projects

      You've likely seen Miami Beach in numerous stunning visuals across various films and TV shows: scenes showcasing expansive, sunlit beaches, neon-drenched Art Deco architecture, and attractive individuals from around the globe, enjoying life beneath palm trees or driving in convertibles.

      What you might not realize is that the adjacent city of Miami has implemented a "small but mighty" film incentive that makes filming there even more appealing.

      The city’s film incentive fund of $100,000 grants an immediate $10,000 rebate to any production that spends at least three days and $25,000 in Miami Beach, and this can be combined with film incentives from Miami-Dade County.

      "We aim to spread the word about the availability of these funds. I’m certain that any production located here would appreciate the chance to receive a $10,000 cash rebate," stated Lisette Garcia Arrogante, the director of Tourism and Culture for Miami Beach, in an interview with MovieMaker.

      The Miami Beach Made Film Contest

      In line with promoting filmmaking within the city, the newly launched Miami Beach Made Film Contest is open for applications until February 10. It offers filmmakers up to $25,000 for projects based in Miami Beach that focus on its rich culture and picturesque locations like Española Way, Lincoln Road, and beyond. Funding amounts will range from $5,000 to $25,000, and submissions will be evaluated based on creativity, representation of Miami Beach, diversity, and feasibility. They must not include graphic violence or discrimination. More information can be found here.

      "We are very pleased that both our city and county have made significant efforts to encourage Hollywood to return to South Florida," added Garcia Arrogante.

      Miami Beach boasts a remarkable cinematic history captured on screen: recent films shot in the area include the new Dexter: Resurrection, while major past films include the Bad Boys series and Oscar-winning films such as Moonlight and The Godfather Part II.

      Moreover, Miami Beach remains a favorable location for reality shows and independent films, both in cinema and television.

      The city has been collaborating with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau to communicate that there are incentives available for both large-scale and smaller projects, Garcia Arrogante noted.

      Enhancing its allure, Miami Beach imposes no permitting fees and does not charge for square footage. The city also provides discounted or complimentary vehicle access passes to the beach, along with numerous other incentives.

      "We strive to keep the process as simple as possible," Garcia Arrogante remarked.

      Combining Miami Beach Film Incentives

      The Miami-Dade County incentives that can be combined with those from Miami Beach include the High Impact Film Fund Program, which offers a cash rebate of up to 20% for projects with a minimum expenditure of $5 million, and the Miami-Dade County TV, Film and Entertainment Production Incentive Program, which grants a 10% cash rebate for budgets exceeding $500,000.

      The city has eased some previous restrictions on its incentive program to further facilitate access for filmmakers, according to Garcia Arrogante.

      "Even if you are researching a film about Miami Beach, you can apply for funding," she clarified. "Or if you're midway or nearing the end of your production and need additional funds, you may apply as long as 'Miami Beach' is in the title, or you filmed in Miami Beach for at least three days and met the $25,000 expenditure requirement."

      Miami Beach also hosts some of the nation's leading film festivals, including the Miami Jewish Film Festival and the American Black Film Festival — which is featured on our current list of 50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee. Notable guests of the ABFF in previous years have included Issa Rae, the 2024 festival’s creative director, along with Halle Berry, Ryan Coogler, Kevin Hart, Will Packer, Anthony Anderson, and many others.

      Additionally, Miami Beach collaborates with Oolite Arts, a nonprofit arts organization that provides a cinematic arts residency. For several years, the city has commissioned local independent filmmakers to create films.

      "We want to ensure that filmmakers understand that Miami Beach is supportive of them and is dedicated to providing a great production experience in every possible way," Garcia Arrogante concluded. "That's why we do not impose fees and strive to offer as many incentives as we can."

      Main image: Courtesy of Miami Beach.