CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL (Chambana Today) — The film industry made a significant economic impact in Champaign County and the surrounding region in 2025, contributing millions to local spending, creating jobs, and bolstering Illinois’ creative economy. According to newly released data from Film Champaign-Urbana, film productions across Champaign, Ford, and Piatt Counties generated $12.3 million in statewide business sales.
Direct spending within Illinois amounted to $6.3 million, which flowed into hotels, catering services, transportation providers, rental housing, equipment vendors, and post-production services. This spending contributed $7.8 million to Illinois’ gross domestic product and $1.61 million in wages, supporting the equivalent of 71 full-time jobs across the state.
The Champaign County area captured a notable share of this economic activity, with $3.78 million in local spending, including $1.625 million in labor costs paid directly to residents. Local crew members, extras, and workers across hospitality, retail, logistics, and creative services all benefited from these productions, demonstrating the broad impact of the film industry on the regional economy.
“Film production brings immediate and measurable benefits to our local economy,” said Mark Brown, Director of Event Services and Film for Experience Champaign-Urbana. “From hotel rooms and catering to wages paid to local crew, these projects create real opportunities for our residents and businesses while showcasing Champaign County as a dynamic place to work and create.”
Looking ahead, the momentum is expected to increase in 2026, following enhancements to the Illinois Film Production Tax Credit signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker in December 2025. The updated program increases the base tax credit for qualified Illinois expenditures to 35%, up from the previous 30%, and adds a 5% credit for Illinois resident wages for productions outside the Chicago-area collar counties. This improvement is expected to make downstate regions like Champaign County even more attractive to filmmakers.
“Champaign County is uniquely positioned to capitalize on these expanded incentives,” said Jennifer Shelby, co-owner of Flyover Film Studios. “With established production companies, an indoor soundstage at Flyover, and a growing local workforce, we’re already seeing increased interest in filming here in 2026 and beyond.”
Flyover Film Studios is also working to engage both filmmakers and the public through events. On Saturday, January 17, they will host the 2026 Filmworkers Expo at the Rantoul Business Center from 12:00–4:00 p.m., offering educational opportunities, gear swaps, career information, and activities for all ages. Tickets and registration are required and can be found on their website.
As the Illinois film industry grows, Film Champaign-Urbana—the official film office for Champaign County—continues to support productions with location scouting, permitting guidance, vendor connections, and coordination with municipalities.
