How Film Incentives are Boosting the Ozarks

The Ozarks is stepping into the spotlight with a new state tax credit that could drive serious economic growth—and business owners are already paying attention. Thanks to legislation passed in 2023 and taking effect last year, Missouri is now among the top five most competitive states for film production incentives. The program offers $16 million in tax credits—$8 million for films and $8 million for episodic productions—positioning Missouri to land projects that had been heading to more incentive-rich states.

“This tax credit levels the playing field,” says David Carr, founder of Ozarks Film Foundry. “We’ve always had the scenery and the affordability—now we can offer financial advantages.”

Carr and his team, including Director of Outreach Ken Childers, are moving fast. Their goal? Attract more productions, create jobs and bring new revenue to local businesses—especially those outside of major urban centers.

Why it Matters to Business Leaders

The economic ripple effect of film production is wide-reaching and fast. Independent restaurants, electricians, hotels, B&Bs, tradesmen, equipment rentals and even landowners all stand to benefit in some way.

“It’s not just about exposure,” Childers explains. “It’s about real dollars coming into small businesses that otherwise wouldn’t see that level of outside spending.”

In 2024 alone, filmmakers claimed $12 million of the available $16 million in credits, generating an impressive $33 million in economic impact. With stronger coordination and the region’s natural advantages, Carr believes the Ozarks can capture even greater returns.

The Ozarks Advantage

Producers are increasingly drawn to distinct, affordable locations. With its rivers, lakes, Ozark mountains and caves, southwest Missouri offers dramatic scenery without the big-market logistics headache. “We can offer versatile backdrops without the Hollywood price tag,” Carr says. And with the rise of streaming platforms hungry for fresh content, smaller markets like the Ozarks are more appealing than ever.

Building for the Future

To support the growth, Ozarks Film Foundry is expanding services: adding Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI) affiliation to boost visibility with studios and developing training programs to build a local workforce in production, screenwriting, sound editing and more. The organization’s mission is clear: Connect filmmakers with the resources they need to succeed. Through professional training, industry networking and public programs that connect the community with the cinematic arts, they’re working to strengthen the Ozarks’ creative economy from the ground up.

“We want to make it easy for producers to say yes to the Ozarks,” Childers says. “That means having trained crews, ready locations and strong community support.”

Long-Term Vision

Carr envisions a thriving, independent film economy in the region within five years, producing everything from feature films to streaming series—all shot locally. For business leaders, it represents a compelling opportunity: increased tourism, higher service demand, a growing skilled workforce and a stronger creative sector—all fueling regional economic growth.

“When producers think affordable, scenic and business-friendly,” Carr says, “we want the Ozarks at the top of their list.”