City’s Economic Development Department Receives Excellence Award for Film Campaign
Oct. 6, 2021
For the second year in a row, the City of Albuquerque Economic Development Department (EDD) has been honored with an Excellence in Economic Development Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The IEDC's Excellence in Economic Development Awards recognize the world's best economic development programs and partnerships, and are presented at IEDC’s annual conference.
“Albuquerque has everything the film industry needs to make a great production—and a great home,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “The film industry is a bright spot for our community and we’re determined to continue building a film-friendly environment that elevates our economic landscape each day. This is the place to be for film and television production.”
EDD is being recognized by the IEDC for the “Lights, Camera, Albuquerque!” ad campaign promoting film in Albuquerque, and the Albuquerque Film Office. Launched in early 2021, the campaign showcases the City’s robust and highly competitive film production industry. Ads appeared in Site Selection magazine, MovieMaker magazine, and Deadline Hollywood.
“The winners of IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development awards represent the best of economic development and exemplify the leadership that our profession strives for every day,” said 2021 IEDC board chair Tom Kucharski. “We’re honored to recognize the more than 100 communities whose marketing submissions, projects, and partnerships have improved regional quality of life.”
The advent of major studios that have brokered long-term investment deals in the city—like Netflix and NBCUniversal—has solidified Albuquerque’s place as a vibrant film and entertainment center, attracting regional offices for national and international production companies. Netflix alone is investing more than $500 million in capital, $1 billion in production spending, and creating more than 2,000 jobs in the city.
“Film is one of the key industries we’re focusing on in our long-term economic development strategy, and we’re thrilled the IEDC has recognized our efforts to promote Albuquerque as a top location for filmmakers,” said Damian R. Lara, EDD interim director. “Albuquerque is a great place to film, and a great place for industry professionals to call home.”
The IEDC’s 25 award categories honor organizations and individuals for efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities. Awards are judged by a diverse panel of economic and community developers, following a nomination process held earlier this year. IEDC received over 500 submissions from four countries.