The Greater Kansas City Film Commission supports and encourages the work of major and independent film companies, as well as media production teams, as they consider or undertake on-location projects in the Kansas City region.
The Film Commission works with the complete cooperation of city municipalities, including city and county offices, police departments plus supportive businesses and production rental companies. It is a State of Missouri, 501 (c) (3) charitable organization.
The Film Commission of Greater Kansas City was founded in 1989 when then Mayor Richard L. Berkley determined it was a vehicle for improving economic development. Over the years his foresight has been proven correct. Originally, the Commission worked on a volunteer basis to promote film production in the area. In 1994, the City agreed to provide funding in the amount of $100,000 for one staff person. Since that time the return on that initial investment has generated millions of dollars spent in the Greater Kansas City region and several thousand new jobs have been created. The film commission has been successful in attracting out of town production (film, video, digital, etc.) to the Greater Kansas City region, as well as stimulating local film production. The film commission has been a revenue generator since its inception.
Over the years, the budget was increased to approximately $200,000, which included two staff people. In 2001-02 the City of Kansas City suffered budget shortfalls and the budget was cut to $30,000 for 2003.
As a result, the Film Commission of Greater Kansas City was in danger of closing. In 2002, the Film Commission decided to incorporate as a not-for-profit 501 c (3) corporation to keep the office in operation. In the summer of 2003, the Board of Directors led a complete reorganization of the Film Commission. Position descriptions were redefined and a partnership was structured with the Visitors and Convention Association (CVA). The CVB now provides office space and other services to the Film Commission.
