New and experienced filmmakers are invited to a free workshop to learn how to apply for City of Sacramento film grants before the next application period opens on Nov. 15.
Staff from the City’s Sacramento Film and Media office will lead “Understanding Sacramento’s Film Grants” from 6–8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, at Futures Explored (2533 R St.).
The session will cover the application process and what filmmakers should know as they prepare to apply.
“Behind every film project are people hiring crew members, finding locations and working with local businesses,” said Sacramento Film Commissioner Jennifer West. “We want local filmmakers to feel prepared to apply for these grants because supporting their work also supports the people and businesses that make filming in Sacramento possible.”
The City’s film grant program supports film and television projects that bring production activity and spending to Sacramento. Administered by Sacramento Film and Media and funded by Measure U, the program has helped filmmakers cover costs such as permit fees, safety personnel and other eligible production expenses when they occur in the city of Sacramento.
As of the City’s March grant program announcement, the program had awarded more than $307,500 to 41 projects since its launch in 2021. Funding opportunities announced at that time included $10,000 production grants and $5,000 post-production grants.
Additional details about the application period opening Nov. 15 will be posted on the Sacramento Film and Media grants webpage as they become available.
To attend the workshop, register for free on Eventbrite.
About Sacramento Film and Media
The Sacramento Film and Media office provides services to those interested in filming in the Sacramento area. The office works to promote regional locations, strengthen the local crew base, assist local filmmakers and attract out-of-town productions.
The office facilitates film permitting and provides location assistance, production information, regulatory guidance, internships and grant opportunities.
So far in 2026, the office has issued 55 film permits covering 147 days of filming. Filming activity has generated $2,309,800 in local spending, 557 local hires working a total of 1,865 days, and 859 hotel nights.
The office also launched a $250,000 film and media rebate program in July 2025 to attract larger independent film, commercial and television productions to the region. Guidelines and the application are available on the program website.
