The Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) will be heading to North Bay this spring, to host a two-day event focused on economic development within the film industry.
North Bay has become a hot spot for film and TV projects in recent years, securing millions in provincial funding for film production, attracting the expansion of a Northern Ontario film studio, and driving the development of a post-production studio, all to support a burgeoning industry.
Scheduled for June 19-20, the EDCO event will open with an evening networking session at the Capitol Centre where participants will take in a special EDCO screening and explore opportunities in film tourism.
The following day will incorporate a full slate of activities.
The conference’s keynote address will be delivered by Justin Cutler, Ontario’s film commissioner, who will speak about the province’s growing film industry and its importance as a “viable, economic contributor to Ontario’s economy.”
Following that, a panel of industry representatives will discuss what it takes to be a “film-friendly” community, delving into strategies for attracting productions, nurturing local talent, and enhancing infrastructure to ensure your locale shines as a destination for filmmakers.
During lunch, attendees will hear about the growing need to make the film industry more sustainable, including creative approaches film crews adopt to promote environmental stewardship during production.
The day’s activities will conclude with a film set tour and a networking dinner boat cruise on board the Chief Commanda II.
A detailed agenda and registration information is available here.
The Economic Developers Council of Ontario is an independent, non-profit, incorporated association engaged in fostering the economic development profession in the province of Ontario.