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The basics:

• NJEDA approves $3M under New Jersey Film Works Grant Program
• Funding supports training, apprenticeships in film production
• 5 organizations to deliver instruction across the state
• Program aims to prepare residents for growing media industry jobs

New Jersey is putting more muscle behind its fast-growing film and digital media sector with a new $3 million workforce investment.

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority board approved $3 million in grant funding, announced Oct. 14, to five workforce development initiatives under the New Jersey Film Works Grant Program. The initiative aims to train more residents for skilled roles in the state’s fast-growing film and digital media sector.

“With strong workforce development initiatives, like the NJ Film Works Grant Program, New Jerseyans will be better equipped to make the most of the industry’s immense economic opportunities,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan.

The funding will support training, internships, apprenticeships and other learning opportunities in key production areas — from editing and set construction to camera operation and special effects. It will include a particular focus on creating pathways for residents of Overburdened Communities.

The grant award recipients include:

• Invest Newark — $750,000
  • Training for production assistant and rigger/grip/set grip roles
  • In-person training in Newark, in collaboration with Newark Film School, the Newark Office of Film and Television, and other key stakeholders
• Reel Works — $750,000
  • Training for assistant camera, production accountant and set carpenter positions
  • Hybrid instruction near the Netflix Studio Campus at Fort Monmouth, in collaboration with IATSE Locals 52 and 600
• AbelCine — $668,838
  • Training for audio and video technician, camera operator and digital imaging technician roles
  • Hybrid training centered in Newark, leveraging industry guild partnerships
• Aspire Youth Development — $444,164
  • Training for assistant editor, camera operator, and film and TV Editor positions
  • In-person instruction in Lumberton, serving Camden, Gloucester and Burlington counties
• Independent Content Studio — $386,998
  • Training for assistant editor, audio and video technician, and set design roles
  • Hybrid instruction in Paulsboro and Gibbstown, partnering with Rowan University, Paulsboro High School and All That’s Good Productions

Filming in a town near you

The announcement comes as New Jersey’s production sector continues its rapid expansion, which NJBIZ has extensively reported on.

Since the reinstatement of the New Jersey Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program, the Garden State has attracted hundreds of feature films, television series, and digital media projects. Major studio projects — including Netflix’s planned campus at Fort Monmouth and 1888 Studios in Bayonne — have added momentum. It all drives a need for trained crew members across a range of technical and creative fields.

New Jersey Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo said this is a key scene in the Garden State’s story of innovation and growth – offering all New Jerseyans a chance to shine.

“This vital grant funding marks a significant step in fortifying New Jersey’s position as a leader in the film and digital media sector,” said Asaro-Angelo. “Through this investment, we’re preparing workers for rewarding careers while also ensuring our diverse communities are at the forefront of this burgeoning field.”

Jon Crowley is executive director of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission. He said every production requires a skilled crew to run smoothly.

“And with more major studios choosing the Garden State due to its varied locations and nation-leading incentives, New Jerseyans need to be prepared for new and exciting employment opportunities,” said Crowley. “The grant awards announced today will support innovative workforce training programs across the state, further positioning New Jersey as a national hub for film and television production.”