Global Film Leaders to Gather in Cincinnati for 2025 AFCI Cineposium
Cincinnati’s status as a leading city in film production continues to rise, and now the world is taking notice. In an exciting announcement, Film Cincinnati revealed that the city has been selected to host the highly anticipated 2025 AFCI (Association of Film Commissions International) Cineposium and 50th Anniversary celebration. This selection places Cincinnati alongside international cities like Bogotá, Colombia, and St. Petersburg, Russia, as a prestigious hub for global film industry leaders.
The event, scheduled for September 2025, is expected to bring industry professionals from across the globe to the Queen City. AFCI’s executive director, Jaclyn Philpott, expressed her enthusiasm about celebrating the organization's anniversary in Cincinnati, stating, “This milestone event is not just about honoring our past but igniting new collaborations between film commissions and the industry at large.”
Why Cincinnati?
Cincinnati's growing reputation as a prime destination for film production played a pivotal role in securing the event. Kristen Schlotman, President/CEO of Film Cincinnati, emphasized that hosting AFCI Cineposium presents a unique opportunity to showcase the city’s capabilities and potential. “What better way to show what our region has to offer than to bring the leaders of the global film industry to our area,” Schlotman said. Her vision for Cincinnati transcends traditional film and highlights how the local industry can drive significant economic impact through innovative collaborations and creative solutions.
Film Cincinnati’s recent achievements underscore the city’s potential. From blockbuster productions like The Wise Guys and The Bikeriders to leveraging Ohio’s Motion Picture Tax Credit program for substantial economic returns, Cincinnati is emerging as a formidable player in the global film industry. In fact, according to Film Cincinnati’s Economic Impact Study, every dollar awarded through Ohio's tax credit program resulted in an astounding $11.77 in direct new spending within the Cincinnati region in 2022 alone.
Uniting Global Film Leaders in the Midwest
The Cineposium is not just an anniversary celebration—it's a dynamic forum for shaping the future of global film production. As the only professional organization representing film commissions across six continents, AFCI plays a crucial role in driving the economic and infrastructure development of film-friendly regions. Bringing this conference to Cincinnati allows the local industry to make invaluable connections and strengthen its position on the global stage.
Julie Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of meetNKY, echoed these sentiments, noting, “Film Cincinnati has made our area a desired location to shoot movies, and it is exciting to have the industry’s leading decision makers come see what we have to offer.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
As AFCI Cineposium returns to North America, Cincinnati will be at the center of global film discussions. The event promises to be a showcase of the city's vibrant film culture, workforce, and infrastructure. Registration details for the 2025 conference will be announced soon, and with the event open to both AFCI members and other interested parties, it’s poised to attract a diverse group of professionals eager to explore Cincinnati’s unique offerings.
By hosting the 2025 Cineposium and 50th Anniversary celebration, Cincinnati is not only solidifying its place in the global film landscape but also driving the conversation about the future of film production worldwide. Keep an eye on Film Cincinnati’s website for more information as the city prepares to welcome the world to its thriving film scene.