Tennessee Film & Media Impact Study
The Tennessee Film & Media Impact Study is a comprehensive analysis projecting the near- and long-term cultural and economic return for the State of Tennessee in building a robust incentive and growth strategy for its film and media industry.
Shepherded by Belmont University's Innovation Labs alongside a broad coalition of Tennessee-based stakeholders, the study is designed to serve as the evidentiary foundation for future collaboration between effective legislation, targeted private investment, and broader creative economy initiatives.
A Study of Our Past &
A Strategy for Our Future
The study's north star is not matching other states dollar for dollar on incentives, but identifying and building on what makes Tennessee distinctively valuable.
entrepreneurial culture
storytelling heritage
favorable business climate
regional authenticity
Photos Provided By the Tennessee Film Commission & Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.
The Goal
A durable, statewide film and media ecosystem.
One where talent is trained and retained, intellectual property stays in-state, and an industry takes root across all 95 counties that thrives on its own terms.
Why This?
Growth and economic attractiveness of TN
Growing demand and strong local coalition
Why Now?
Favorable cultural and political climate
Post-COVID creative talent influx in TN
Disruption in Hollywood = opportunity in TN
Belmont leadership affinity and innovation design capabilities
Why Us?
Best in Class Industry & Research Knowledge
Reflection of Tennessee’s Distinctives & Values
Innovative & Future-Proofed Strategy
Our diverse team merges in the sweet spot - with credible, distinctive and innovative strategy.
Lend Your Voice to This Work
Participate in the TN Film & Media Impact Study by filling out our community survey.
Decision-Making Criteria
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Music and storytelling heritage
Strong creative workforce
Entrepreneurial ecosystem
Favorable Tax & Regulatory Structures
Regional storytelling and cultural authenticity
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Benefits multiple regions of the state
Expands participation beyond Nashville and major cities
Strengthens statewide industry infrastructure
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Local production capacity
Tennessee-based vendors and crews
Local investment and IP retained in Tennessee
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Training programs and apprenticeships
Connections between education and industry
Clear entry points and crew development statewide
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Builds lasting infrastructure or capacity
Resilient to changes in the media landscape
Novel approach building on infrastructure with innovative tools
Our Process
Assemble
Bring together the key voices, and build the right table.
1
Discover
Interrogate the challenge through primary and secondary research.
2
Design
Develop actionable solutions.
3
Deploy
Implement, launch, and deliver.