With a proposed $2.5 Billion Texas film industry tax credits and incentive program, film professionals prepare for new opportunities.
A historical film incentive program recently passed in the Texas state senate, includes a plan to invest $2.5 billion over the next decade. And with the support of film heavyweights such as Matthew McConaughey and Taylor Sheridan, the Texas film production industry is primed for a wave of new projects and the Texas Production Expo aims to assist film industry professionals at every level.
“We’ve seen incredible growth of Film, TV, and Video in Texas over the past several years and the production community in Dallas-Fort Worth is exploding with talent.” Said Dallas Producers Association President, Ian Loomer. “Every event brings more people together to connect, grow, and learn as we strive to help make Texas the film capital of America. The Texas Production Expo is a culmination of industry experts, incredible speakers, and technical specialist brought together by a team of amazing volunteers to help shine a light on the growing film scene.”
The expo, which takes place May 22nd at the Grapevine Convention Center with title Sponsor TM Television, will showcase the latest gear and technology, hold seminars and workshops as well as offer networking opportunities. Any creative with an interest in film production will benefit from the expo, from cinema, television, and livestream to marketing teams, and advertising agencies. YouTubers, TikTokers, and content creators will all gain insight from the free event.
For over 25 years, the Texas Production Expo has been the place to learn, connect and engage with like-minded creatives around the latest technology and trends. However, this year with the film industry incentive bill being considered – which would more than double the current spend – the expo is well-timed. Texas is on the brink of a film boom.
“The Texas Production Expo is the largest and most anticipated film conference in North Texas, providing unmatched networking opportunities for local industry professionals.” notes Katie Schuck, Dallas Film Commissioner, “This event brings together top-tier speakers and leading experts and offers a wealth of educational opportunities for attendees. It’s more than just a conference – it’s a gathering place where artists, technicians, and filmmakers can engage with the latest trends, share industry insights, and expand their networks. “
Hosted by the Dallas Producers Association, the TPE will host over 1000 industry professionals and tech stalwarts with industry leaders speaking on everything from the future of film in Texas to AI and its impact on the industry. This free event is an opportunity for professionals, hobbyists and students to get their hands on the latest equipment, attend seminars, have the chance to win incredible prizes and wrap up the day’s events with an onsite happy hour to network with industry leaders. With speakers who have worked on projects like The Chosen, Landman, Lioness, and produced content for networks like Apple TV, Netflix, Paramount, and more; there is something for everyone.
The Texas Production Expo is Thursday, May 22 from 9:00 to 5:00 at the Grapevine Convention Center.
In addition to the free Expo On Thursday, there is also a half-day workshop on Wednesday the 21st that will give practical insight and hands-on experience into AI. “So your Client is Asking about AI… Now What?” workshop tickets are $100 with a discount for DPA members.For more information and to register for the FREE event, visit: texasproductionexpo.com.
What: Texas Production Expo
Where: Grapevine Convention Center 1209 S Main St Grapevine, TX 76051
When: Wednesday, 1:00- 5:00 pm AND Thursday 9:00 – 5:00 pm
How: The event is free, but attendees that register in advance have a chance to win prizes.
About the DPA: The DPA was founded in 1978 by 6 producers to share best practices and knowledge and to advocate for production in Texas. As one of the largest trade associations for film and media professionals in Texas, The DPA has been at the heart of production in Dallas/Fort Worth and the forefront of education and advocacy for film and media professionals in Texas. Today, they host monthly meetups, happy hours, and events that engage the production community across various topics and interests, bringing hundreds of people together each month.
About SB22: The Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program was created in 2007 to entice productions to the state by offering rebates on money spent to hire Texas labor and buy Texas goods. SB 22 would more than double that amount while adding stability and certainty to the program going forward.
DPA Leadership:
Ian Loomer – President
A creative operational executive with over 20 years of progressively broader experience in film/tv, live event, broadcast, and XR production industry. Ian has served on the DPA board since 2020 and its President since 2024. He also acts as the Director of Operations for the Texas Media Production Alliance helping champion film, tv, and gaming incentives in Texas.
Joshua Wethington – Vice President
With 18 years in video production—including 15 years as a producer—Joshua has built a career turning creative ideas into high-impact video content that drives engagement, brand awareness, and revenue. Over the past 10 years, he’s specialized in growing YouTube channels for global brands, using data-driven strategies to optimize content, boost search and discovery and maximize ROI.
Ashton Campbell – Treasurer
An Emmy award winning filmmaker with decades of experience in film and television production. Ashton is a partner at the History Texas Theatre in Dallas, Texas and Co-Director of the Oak Cliff FIlm Festival.
