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Minnesota Film Production
Tax Incentive
Minnesota offers a fantastic opportunity for film and
television production companies through its Film Production Tax Credit.
MADE IN MN, MADE EASY
TAX INCENTIVES FOR MN FILM PRODUCTION
The Minnesota Film Production Tax Credit provides an assignable 25% income tax credit for productions that spend at least $1,000,000 within 12 consecutive months on eligible production costs, including equipment rental, crew wages, location fees, and post-production services.
The Upper Midwest Film Office (UMFO) also offers stackable incentives, letting producers combine the benefits of the 25% State-level tax credit with Regional, County, and City-level rebates with up to 70% back on eligible spending.
Whether you’re producing commercials, TV series, or feature films, this tax credit can significantly reduce your production expenses and make Minnesota an even more attractive destination for your next project.
For full details on eligibility and how to apply, check out the official guidelines here:
Movies Made in Minnesota
How the Minnesota Film Production
Tax Credit Works
To apply for Minnesota’s Film Production Tax Credit, production companies must apply to Explore Minnesota Film, which allocates credits on a first-come, first-served basis until the program’s $25 million annual cap is reached. Approved applicants receive a Tax Credit Certificate, which they can claim when filing Minnesota state taxes.
The credit is assignable, meaning it can be transferred to another taxpayer before being claimed. The assignment requires completing the Optional Film Production Tax Credit Certificate Assignment and submitting it within 30 days.
This credit is managed by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), and production companies must apply and meet all requirements before receiving the tax credit.
Stackable Film Incentives in Minnesota
Minnesota offers stackable film incentives, allowing productions to combine state tax credits with regional rebates for maximum savings. The Iron Range Regional Production Incentive provides a 20% rebate, while the City of Duluth Production Incentive offers up to 25% reimbursement—both can be used alongside Minnesota’s Film Production Tax Credit.
To qualify, productions must apply to the Upper Midwest Film Office (UMFO) before filming begins.
CineMechanics IS YOUR RESOURCE FOR FILMING IN MINNESOTA
At CineMechanics, we're proud to support filmmakers who take advantage of the Minnesota Film Production Tax Credit. As a trusted partner with extensive experience in major motion picture projects, we understand the value of this incentive and are here to ensure you get the most out of it.
Over the years our staff at CineMechanics have built long-lasting relationships with local crew and producers, and we are always happy to help connect productions with the professionals who make movies happen.
Our inventory of industry-leading cameras, lenses, and support are ready to outfit any sized production. Looking for something we don't have? Thanks to a nationwide network of partner rental houses, we you can count on us to quickly source whatever your project needs.
Unique filming locations
From Minneapolis-St. Paul to the North Shore of Lake Superior, Minnesota offers a full range of scenery for film productions. No matter whether your script calls for bustling downtown streets or small town charm, lakes and rivers or vast open farmland, MN has it all.
Twin Cities
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Minnesota offers a diverse mix of urban energy and natural beauty, from the skyline of Minneapolis and St. Paul to the serene lakes and forests. With a thriving creative industry and experienced crews, the Twin Cities provide an ideal backdrop for any production. Plus, learn more about the 25% tax credit (Minnesota Film Production Tax Credit). |
Duluth / Superior
Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, Duluth boasts breathtaking landscapes, historic architecture, and industrial waterfront charm. Iconic locations like Glensheen Mansion and the rugged North Shore provide stunning visuals for any project. Plus, enjoy the 25% Tax Credit + Stackable Incentives (UMFO).
Iron Range / St. Louis County
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The Iron Range’s dramatic landscapes and mining history make it a standout filming destination. From the Mesabi Range to historic mining sites, this region offers unparalleled backdrops. Additionally, learn more about the 25% Tax Credit + Stackable Incentives (UMFO).
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RURAL MINNESOTA
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Rural Minnesota is no single thing; from North to South, Minnesota is home to a huge diversity of cinematic landscapes, with everything from dense forest, to rivers and streams, to rolling bluffs, to wide-open pairie vistas and farmland. Learn more about the 25% Tax Credit + Stackable Incentives (UMFO).
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Film Crew in Minnesota
Minnesota is home to many seasoned film crew members with decades of experience in feature films, TV, documentary, and commercials. From camera assistants, to hair & makeup, to set decorators, to grip & electric, Minnesota has the industry professionals to make your production run smoothly.
