Governor Abbott Launches New Digital Media Friendly Texas Program

Governor Greg Abbott has announced the launch of the Digital Media Friendly Texas Certified Community program, aimed at attracting digital media production and fostering job growth in animation, visual effects, video games, and extended reality (XR) industries across the state.

In a press release, Governor Abbott expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating, “Texas is a magnet for innovative industry leaders and creative talent, and this new program will help take our state to new heights in the innovative world of digital media.” The initiative, spearheaded by the Texas Film Commission, is designed to expand local economies by drawing new investments in the burgeoning digital media sector.

Stephanie Whallon, Director of the Texas Film Commission, highlighted the significance of the Digital Media Friendly Texas Certified Community program, emphasizing its role in showcasing the technical skills and artistic creativity of Texas media professionals. She stated, “Animation, visual effects, video game, and XR production are a vital part of the production ecosystem in Texas.”

Similar to other certified community programs such as Film Friendly Texas, Music Friendly Texas, and Tourism Friendly Texas, the Digital Media Friendly Texas Community designation is open to local governments or non-profit economic development and tourism organizations. Certified communities will be promoted to digital media companies and professionals to attract economic development opportunities and foster job growth in the digital media sector.

The program also aims to bridge the digital divide by educating communities and residents on the importance of digital literacy. Governor Abbott’s office highlighted the Texas Film Commission’s track record of promoting local job growth and economies, with over $2 billion in local spending and creation of more than 183,000 production jobs from 2007 to 2023.

For further information on the Digital Media Friendly Texas Certified Community program, interested parties can visit gov.texas.gov/film/page/dmftx_overview. Additionally, details on digital media production in Texas can be found at gov.texas.gov/film/page/dm_overview.