The Trinidad & Tobago Film Commission (formerly The Trinidad and Tobago Film Company Limited-FilmTT, which was established in 2006), is a part of Global Trinidad and Tobago and continues to facilitate the growth and development of the film and audio-visual sector in Trinidad & Tobago.
The Trinidad & Tobago Film Commission works on all aspects of film sector development, promotes Trinidad & Tobago as a film production location, and provides Film Commission services to local and incoming productions. The Unit’s mission is to maximise the economic and creative potential of Trinidad and Tobago’s screen industries for the benefit of the country and its people.
International Film Facilitation statistics
for the past 5 years.
Production Expenditure
Rebate Programme
Unlock significant savings with Trinidad & Tobago’s primary production incentive.
Effective Period: 2025 – 2027
The Production Expenditure Rebate Programme is the primary incentive for both local and international productions filming in Trinidad & Tobago. Qualification is based on specific criteria, offering cash back on qualifying expenses and local labor.
International Film Facilitation statistics
for budgets US$100,000 – US$499,999, plus 20% cash back for hiring local labour
for budgets US$500,000 – $999,999, plus 20% cash back for hiring local labour
for budgets US$1,000,000 – $8,000,000, plus 20% cash back for hiring local labour
For Trinidad & Tobago producers, the rebate offers:
for budgets US$15,000 – US$8,000,000, plus 20% for hiring local labour
Locations Directory
The Locations Database is an essential resource for filmmakers, featuring a curated selection of diverse filming locations across Trinidad and Tobago. From vibrant urban settings to breathtaking natural landscapes, the database offers clear, accessible information to help production teams quickly identify and evaluate suitable sites. It also includes key logistical details to support efficient planning and the process of securing the necessary permits for filming.
Film Festival Support
Investment in local film festivals can strengthen their ability to provide a platform for local films that can connect with diverse local audiences. There are cultural and social benefits from domestic audiences engaging with screen content that explores local culture. We aim to create an improved and more ambitious local film sector, and it is crucial that at the same time, the local consumer base also expands to extend the economic potential of this content.
This fund is open to new and existing film festivals based in Trinidad and Tobago and presenting programmes to audiences, and to other constituted groups based in Trinidad and Tobago, that meet the aims and criteria of this fund.
If you are already in receipt of Film Festivals Funding but would like additional support to develop online activity and digital engagement initiatives, please speak to us first. You can do this by emailing.
Script to Screen Programme is an incubator capacity development and content creation programme which focused on the community of local filmmakers interested in continuing to improve their production skills as well as their ability to devise, create, deliver quality, international audience-pleasing screen content.
The Business of Film: Script to Screen programme positioned stakeholders at a greater advantage through access to business opportunities and professional growth. Local and international industry professionals facilitated the sessions which included practical components and funding incentives.
The programme was broken down into two stages. Stage one held workshops that aimed at bridging the gaps by providing filmmakers with the proper story/scriptwriting skills, production tools, marketing and distribution guidelines. The workshops took place virtually via the ZOOM platform.
The topics covered in the workshops were:
- Writing Your Short Story – It’s All About the Story
- Pre-Production – Getting Prepared
- Production – Executing Your Vision
- Post Production – Putting the Pieces Together
- Marketing
For stage 2, FilmTT hosted a Film Pitch whereby participants pitched their script before a panel of judges for the opportunity to win up to fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) in developmental funding.
Some noteworthy productions coming out of this programme are:
I Dream of Calypso
This short tells the story of a shy young girl who dreams of singing calypso but must first gain the approval of her religious parents in order to do so. It was written by Solange Plaza, directed by Joash Alexander and produced by Victoria Gour-Votor. The film stars Cayla Allen, Michelle Sylvester and Sean Daniel. The film was also screened at the 2022 CaribbeanTales International Film Festival (CTFF) in Canada.
Skyglow
This film, which held its world premiere at the 2022 CTFF, is a Sci Fi short that tells the story of Judah. When his first love, Ellie, goes missing, Judah, a bullied youth, must confront his past and unlock new power to find her before it's too late. The film was written and directed by Kyron Jeffers and produced by Leanda Taitt
When Monsters Come Out and A Mother’s Revenge
Two short films which are the result of a remarkable collaboration with the internationally acclaimed Nigerian filmmaker, James Amuta. A distinctive highlight of both films is the participation of a 100% local cast. Both films were included in the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
Lunch and Learn
The Lunch and Learn webinars are a dynamic series designed to equip filmmakers, producers, and industry professionals with essential skills and insights to thrive in the film industry. Each session features expert-led discussions on key topics such as financing, distribution, storytelling, and emerging trends. Perfect for both aspiring and seasoned creatives, this series offers practical knowledge in a convenient, bite-sized format.