Steve Lyons, director of the Maine Film Office, has earned the Certified Film Commissioner designation from the Association of Film Commissioners International.
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As director of the Maine Film Office, Steve Lyons runs a one-person operation, helping filmmakers navigate permitting, scout locations and connect with local crews, while overseeing the state’s visual media incentive program.
He’s aiming to broaden that impact after earning the designation of Certified Film Commissioner from the Association of Film Commissioners International, a global network of film commissions, business affiliates, film liaisons and producers.
“The certification courses provide a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process, along with key areas such as marketing, management and economic development,” Lyons told Mainebiz.
“This broader perspective allows me to better anticipate potential challenges and proactively develop solutions, helping to ensure a smoother experience for productions working in Maine,” he added.
To attract more television and movie productions to Maine, the Maine Film Office is currently offering a limited-time grant program for those considering the state as a location, Lyons said.
Productions planning to spend at least $1 million in the state may apply for reimbursement grants of up to $350,000 for eligible in-state expenses. Applications are due May 15, and approved projects must begin filming within 12 months.
In addition, the Maine Film Office also continues to evaluate festivals and marketing opportunities that align with the state’s goal of attracting more productions to Maine, according to Lyons.
“Events such as the Maine International Film Festival and Camden International Film Festival provide valuable opportunities to connect with filmmakers who may be actively developing future projects,” he said.
The Maine Film Office, part of the state's Department of Economic and Community Development, promotes Maine as a premier destination for visual media production.
To attract more television and movie productions to Maine, the Maine Film Office is currently offering a limited-time grant program for those considering the state as a location, Lyons said.
Productions planning to spend at least $1 million in the state may apply for reimbursement grants of up to $350,000 for eligible in-state expenses. Applications are due May 15, and approved projects must begin filming within 12 months.
In addition, the Maine Film Office also continues to evaluate festivals and marketing opportunities that align with the state’s goal of attracting more productions to Maine, according to Lyons.
“Events such as the Maine International Film Festival and Camden International Film Festival provide valuable opportunities to connect with filmmakers who may be actively developing future projects,” he said.
The Maine Film Office, part of the state's Department of Economic and Community Development, promotes Maine as a premier destination for visual media production.