Start Date: 

2001

Funding:     

NCEDC, NT Temps Inc.

Partners:   

NCEDC, Township of Adjala-Tosorontio, Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, Township of Essa, Town of Innisfil, Town of New Tecumseth, and the Ontario Media Development Corporation 

Goal:     

Coordination of location filming in South Simcoe for the following municipalities: Township of Adjala-Tosorontio, Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, Township of Essa, Town of Innisfil, and the Town of New Tecumseth. To liaise between local host communities, residents, film production companies, and other stakeholders to ensure a positive streamlined experience. 

Status:   

The Film Production Policy and Procedures document was approved and adopted by all participating municipalities in April 2001. Information on filming in South Simcoe and an application form are accessible online at www.nottawasaga.com The information provided to production companies includes location sites, permit requirements, and resource contacts. 

In 2023-2024, Nottawasaga Futures hosted the Film Friendly Vendor Workshop Series, in partnership with the South Georgian Bay Media Association and funded by the County of Simcoe, this workshop series encouraged businesses in Simcoe County to engage with the film industry to enhance their operations and growth. The workshops, attended by over 200 participants from various sectors such as hotels, catering, and equipment rentals, provided insights into the thriving film and television production scene, focusing on vendor success and addressing interests from space rentals to sustainability.

Concurrently, a study on attracting film production to small towns near the GTA highlighted the economic benefits and potential for local growth through tourism and film sector synergy. It examined challenges and offered strategic recommendations to develop film infrastructure and supportive policies, aiming to extend Ontario’s film industry reach and benefit local economies.