Before I begin this missive, it would help to know what a social profit even is. Right? I can’t take credit for coining the phrase; however, it is my preferred term in lieu of nonprofit or not-for-profit. Not a fan of either. The use of “non” in front of something can carry a negative connotation. Non is described in the dictionary as “expressing negation or absence.” It may not come in the form of cash, but there is a return on investment (ROI) back to the community in which social profits do important work every day to address many of the societal challenges we all face.
The Greater Cleveland Film Commission (GCFC) is a 501(c)3 workforce and economic development social profit creating jobs and bringing millions of dollars into Northeast Ohio through its efforts within the growing film and media production industry.
GCFC’s advocacy and attraction efforts recently resulted in two high-profile productions spending a combined $77,572,289 in Northeast Ohio. Hundreds of local production crew were hired, many local businesses were engaged, and 30,966 hotel room nights were booked (over $4.5 million spent). This new investment here also meant spending with myriad local vendors along with the creation of jobs for local industry professionals. The process for GCFC to lay the groundwork for these kinds of productions take months, if not years, in advance of actual filming. Yet for all this work, whether a pitched movie ultimately ends up shooting here or not, GCFC doesn’t receive any commissions or renumeration.
While the City of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County have both supported us over the past many years, GCFC must still fundraise for greater than half of our annual budget to simply maintain the status quo. In the current environment however, standing pat is unacceptable, as the July increase to the Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit (OMPTC) means that film production activity will also grow. We must therefore increase our capacity to ensure that GCFC, as well as the local film production ecosystem keeps pace for local NE Ohioans to be well-positioned for participation in the anticipated windfall.
Whether you are an individual or corporation, join in the fun today by becoming a supporting member of the Greater Cleveland Film Commission to be part of the “cool factor” of workforce and economic development in Cleveland.
For a limited time, if you become a member at the $100 “Bronze” level or above, you’ll receive a vintage t-shirt from the GCFC 2016 screening of “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” as our thanks! (Only while supplies last, available only in size XL). Already a GCFC Member? Receive a t-shirt as our thank you for a gift of $100 or more by making a tax-deductible donation here.
If you are industry professional who has, or will be, benefitting from all the opportunities that GCFC is creating in the area, check out the special rate for industry folks like yourselves. Or join simply because you want to help keep film rolling in Cleveland.
In addition to the trappings of membership, an investment with Greater Cleveland Film Commission means continued workforce and economic development impact for the Greater Cleveland area this social profit drives.
Until next time,
LP
Chief Diversity Officer, VP Corporate & Community Engagement