The advocacy that NFMLA has been leading for an independent film incentive in LA, in partnership with LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, SD5 Economic Deputy Monica Banken, and LA County Department of Economic Opportunity Film Office Head Gary Smith, is gaining significant traction. Cerys Davies wrote a story about the efforts in the Los Angeles Times (photography by Ronaldo Bolaños):
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2026-08-05/la-county-weighs-grant-fund-to-keep-indie-films-from-leaving
While the LA Times article generally seems to celebrate the idea of this initiative, we must respectfully disagree with the opinion of Tulane University associate professor of economics Patrick Button. His assertion that indie filmmakers working with tight budgets are less likely to relocate than studio productions is unfounded and undermines the narrative we see year-round as these entrepreneurs in LA strive to make their films a reality. Sylvia Ray is just one example. Incentives have undeniably become an essential part of the financial equation; the difference between studio and independent simply does not matter. $200,000 is as valuable to a $1 million independent film as $20 million is to a $100 million studio film.
In addition to Barger’s support, Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath and her team, including Rachel Fox and Zahra Hajee, are major leaders in bringing this vital economic stimulus for Southern California to fruition. We also want to acknowledge Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell for her tireless efforts to support creative jobs in LA and for her work as a member of the California Film Commission Board.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed their time, expertise, or support. There is still much work to be done, and we will need to build a strong coalition to activate philanthropic and community support for this concept. 🎉 👏 🎬
