CHICAGO— State Senator Cristina Castro celebrated Thursday’s opening of a new training center for film production crews within the Illinois Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 2, which was supported by a $5 million grant Castro secured.

“Securing funding for this project has been an accomplishment on behalf of Illinois’ economy,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Providing high-quality and well-paying jobs will demonstrate continued relief for working families.”

Castro sponsored Senate Bill 1911 that strengthens the state’s film and TV community by expanding the Illinois Film Production Tax Credit. The expansion will support good-paying jobs throughout the state with numerous enhancements including an increased tax credit for local labor and Illinois vendors, incentives to relocate TV series to Illinois, regional production bonuses, and more.

Illinois’ film production expenditures reached $653 million in 2024 – the second-highest expenditure total in state history – along with estimated wages of $351 million and 18,200 estimated hires in the industry (excluding extras). The high expenditures demonstrate Illinois’ ability to bounce back in the wake of the strikes that halted production in 2023.

“If you’ve been to a great show or concert — or seen Chicago looking magnificent on the screen — it was made great in large part because of the work of IATSE Local 2,” said Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park). “This facility ensures they’ll continue leading the way in skill, safety and innovation, preparing the next generation of professionals for the high-tech, high-skill jobs that quite literally keep the show going.”

More information about the state’s film incentives can be found here.