Wisconsin’s New Budget a Win for Filmmakers, Says Sheboygan Film Festival Team
A state film office and incentives will make a difference for everyone.
SHEBOYGAN, WI — July 28, 2025 — When Governor Tony Evers signed Wisconsin’s new 2025–2027 state budget into law, it marked a historic win for the state’s creative sector—especially independent filmmakers. The budget establishes a long-awaited State Film Office and unlocks up to $5 million per year in tax credits for film and TV production. Leaders of the inaugural Sheboygan Film Festival say it’s a game-changer.
“This is a win for the entire state,” said Beah Travis, Chair of the Sheboygan Film Festival Committee and Executive Director of Belladonna Film Project. “So many have been working for so long all across Wisconsin to make this happen. We want to thank and congratulate Katie Heil and the members of Action! Wisconsin, who have advocated so diligently for state investment and infrastructure for the sector.”
The newly approved film incentives are expected to boost local production, attract private investment, and drive economic growth across industries like hospitality, construction, transportation, and catering. The State Film Office will be housed within the Department of Tourism and will include a dedicated staff position to administer the program.
A Bipartisan Win for Wisconsin’s Creative Economy
The incentives were the product of a bipartisan legislative effort, with support from Senator Julian Bradley (R–New Berlin), Representative David Armstrong (R–Rice Lake), Governor Evers (D), and more than 40 co-sponsors across party lines.
Katie Heil, co-founder of Action! Wisconsin, emphasized the broad impact these incentives will have across the state. “It’s a great day for Wisconsin,” she said in a recent release. “The Legislature and Governor recognized this enormous economic development opportunity that will attract additional private investment in the film and production sector.”
According to Action! Wisconsin, the program includes specific criteria to ensure accountability: only productions that meet spending and documentation thresholds will qualify. That means more dollars circulating through Wisconsin-based businesses during production—whether it’s renting gear, building sets, or buying lunch for cast and crew.
Sheboygan Film Festival’s First Year, Perfectly Timed
The Sheboygan Film Festival (SFF), taking place October 2–5, 2025, is arriving at the perfect moment. It will showcase independent films from Wisconsin and beyond, and organizers say the timing couldn’t be better.
“Having this kind of state-level support signals to filmmakers everywhere that Wisconsin is open for business,” Travis said. “Sheboygan is already full of creative talent, and this investment will help us build something sustainable.”
Presented by the Belladonna Film Project, the Sheboygan Film Festival aims to be a hub for independent film in the Midwest. Its lineup will include dramatic and documentary features, short films, and family-friendly programming, as well as panels and conversations with filmmakers.
Filmmakers, sponsors, and volunteers are encouraged to get involved. Full details are available at www.sheboyganfilmfest.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new Wisconsin film tax credit program?
It’s a $5 million annual incentive that offers refundable and non-refundable tax credits to productions that film in Wisconsin and meet local spending requirements.
Who will oversee the new film program?
A State Film Office will be created within the Department of Tourism, with funding for at least one dedicated staff member.
What types of productions qualify?
Film and TV projects that meet spending thresholds and provide proper documentation. This includes independent features, shorts, and potentially episodic content.
Why is this important for the Sheboygan Film Festival?
The new incentives support the festival’s mission to promote regional film and make Sheboygan a creative hub. They also increase the likelihood of local production activity.
When and where is the Sheboygan Film Festival?
October 2–5, 2025, at venues across Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Details at sheboyganfilmfest.com.
More Information
According to Action! Wisconsin, this program is designed to bring meaningful economic return, especially in small to mid-sized communities like Sheboygan. The Wisconsin Arts Board and Wisconsin Public Radio have also reported on the return of film incentives after over a decade without a program.
With the Sheboygan Film Festival leading the charge for regional storytelling, and a state-level commitment now in place, Wisconsin’s independent film scene may be on the verge of something big.
