San Antonio, January 17, 2026
San Antonio’s film industry is experiencing significant growth thanks to enhanced film incentive programs and national recognition. The San Antonio Film Incentive (SAFI) now offers qualifying productions rebates of up to 45%, making it a competitive destination for filmmakers. In addition, the city has climbed in MovieMaker Magazine’s rankings, showcasing its appeal to industry professionals. These initiatives aim to support local talent and attract high-profile projects to the area.
San Antonio’s Film Industry Soars with Enhanced Incentives and National Recognition
San Antonio, Texas – San Antonio’s film industry is experiencing significant growth, propelled by substantial enhancements to its film incentive programs and national recognition.
Enhanced Film Incentive Programs
In November 2025, the San Antonio City Council approved major updates to its film incentive program, now known as the San Antonio Film Incentive (SAFI). These updates, combined with new statewide incentives, offer qualifying film and commercial productions a rebate package of up to 45%, with a maximum award of $250,000 per project. This positions San Antonio as the most financially competitive destination for film projects in Texas.
National Recognition
In January 2026, San Antonio climbed from 20th to 14th place in MovieMaker Magazine’s “Best Places to Live and Work as a Moviemaker” rankings. This marks the eighth consecutive year the city has been recognized, reflecting its growing appeal to filmmakers.
Background Context
The SAFI program offers a base rebate of 10%, with additional 2% uplifts for productions that hire 35-50% local cast and crew or at least 5% military veterans. Eligible projects include feature films, TV series, documentaries, commercials, and more. These incentives aim to attract high-profile productions, encourage local hiring, and enhance professional development opportunities for emerging talent.
The Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program (TMIIIP) also contributes to this growth, with a historic $1.5 billion investment over the next decade. This program provides additional support to productions filming in Texas, further solidifying the state’s position as a leading destination for filmmakers.
These developments underscore San Antonio’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and sustainable film industry, offering filmmakers competitive incentives and a supportive environment for their projects.
FAQ
What is the San Antonio Film Incentive (SAFI)?
The San Antonio Film Incentive (SAFI) is a rebate program offering qualifying film and commercial productions a package of up to 45%, with a maximum award of $250,000 per project. This program aims to attract high-profile productions and encourage local hiring.
What types of projects are eligible for SAFI?
Eligible projects include feature films, TV series, documentaries, commercials, and more. Productions must meet specific criteria, such as hiring a certain percentage of local cast and crew or military veterans.
How does the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program (TMIIIP) support San Antonio’s film industry?
The TMIIIP provides additional support to productions filming in Texas, with a historic $1.5 billion investment over the next decade. This program enhances the state’s position as a leading destination for filmmakers.
How has San Antonio been recognized in the film industry?
In January 2026, San Antonio climbed from 20th to 14th place in MovieMaker Magazine’s “Best Places to Live and Work as a Moviemaker” rankings, marking the eighth consecutive year the city has been recognized.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| SAFI Rebate Package | Up to 45% rebate, maximum award of $250,000 per project. |
| Eligible Projects | Feature films, TV series, documentaries, commercials, and more. |
| Local Hiring Incentives | Additional 2% uplifts for hiring 35-50% local cast and crew or at least 5% military veterans. |
| TMIIIP Investment | $1.5 billion investment over the next decade to support Texas’ film industry. |
| National Recognition | Ranked 14th in MovieMaker Magazine’s “Best Places to Live and Work as a Moviemaker” in January 2026. |
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