Reeling in Opportunities: El Paso’s Film Incentive Proposal Explained
By Al Garcia
Photography courtesy of El Paso Independent Film
OCT. 26 2025 — El Paso Independent Film is taking action to inform the public about a proposed city-specific film incentive that is designed to create a sustainable and thriving film community right here in El Paso.
The proposal was introduced at the all-new Studio 4 Productions to discuss Texas Senate Bill 22. The legislation expands state-level film incentives, and local advocates hope to establish our own program to attract more productions. The proposal calls for a 5% to 10% rebate for production companies filming in the city.
Host Genaro Limon and other local production professionals shared a common goal in each presentation: build a stronger film industry in El Paso and keep creative talent in the region. Bringing the productions to the area would reduce the need for professionals to leave and seek work elsewhere.
More than 100 attendees were present, and many signatures were collected on the proposal letter. “Honestly, the turnout went far beyond my expectations. We had around 80 to 100 people show up super engaged, excited, and eager to see change happen.” Said Limon about his expectations of the event turnout. “It was inspiring to feel that collective energy focused on building a stronger local film community and pushing for a film incentive that can expand our workforce and boost the production of local stories in our region. We even gathered more signatures for our proposal letter supporting the film incentive, a short film grant, and a public local directory. So yes, it absolutely met and exceeded what I was hoping for.”
Organizations already active in the city’s film scene include Femme Frontera, El Paso Film Festival, El Paso Classic Film Festival, Oculto Film Festival, Star Central Studios, Double Scope Films, and Cheeky Monkey Post.
Film Commissioner Drew-Oakes representing Creative El Paso showed up to support the movement. El Paso Independent Film emphasized that, much like our neighboring Las Cruces, El Paso needs a film liaison to help develop the local creative economy.
A budget in place would also help fund a public directory for crew members, vendors, and equipment providers. Individuals working in El Paso would have access to mentorships, internships, and educational workshops. The next generation of filmmakers depends on this incentive.
Limon had some empowering words for El Paso’s future filmmakers, saying, “My advice for the next generation of filmmakers is to stay consistent and always keep learning. Ask questions both to those you look up to and to yourself about how you can do things differently. Stay curious about how others create, immerse yourself in films from around the world, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Every step, every lesson, and every collaboration adds to your growth as a storyteller.”
