Governor Greg Abbott has extended his congratulations to the City of Paris for being named the fourth Digital Media Friendly Texas Certified Community by the Texas Film Commission. This recognition follows a comprehensive certification process and aims to enhance digital media production across Texas, fostering local employment in sectors such as animation, visual effects, video games, and extended reality.
“Texas is a leader in innovation,” stated Governor Abbott. “Building on our state’s long history of film and television production, industry leaders in Texas now play a major role in digital media production. I thank the Texas Film Commission for working with our communities to help market their existing assets, unique attributes, and skilled workforce to attract new investments in digital media production and grow local jobs.”
City of Paris Mayor Mihir Pankaj emphasized the economic significance of this designation: “Receiving the Digital Media Friendly Texas Community designation is important on so many levels. The growing economic impact provided by the digital media industries, whether it be video games, visual effects, or extended reality, has a ripple effect, providing revenues for so many members of a community; the lasting effect will continue to provide benefits for years to come. We are excited to be able to work with the Texas Film Commission to help bring these forward-thinking projects to Paris and Texas.”
City Manager Rose Beverly highlighted how this certification aligns with community goals: “Paris is honored to receive the Digital Media Friendly Texas Community certification. This designation supports our commitment to expanding economic opportunity and preparing our workforce for the industries of tomorrow. It will help us raise awareness of technology career paths for our students and attract remote workers who value the quality of life our community offers. We appreciate the Texas Film Commission’s partnership in achieving this important milestone.”
The program’s designation is available to local governments or non-profit economic development and tourism organizations across various communities. It serves as a platform for certified communities to draw new digital media productions while promoting job growth locally. Additionally, it connects professionals within Texas’ digital media sector with job opportunities and networking events while advocating for increased digital literacy.
For more information on becoming a Digital Media Friendly Texas Certified Community, visit gov.texas.gov/film/page/dmftx_overview.
The Texas Film Commission has been instrumental over five decades in boosting local economies by positioning Texas as an ideal location for diverse productions including film, television commercials as well as cutting-edge fields like animation or virtual reality through its efforts under Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office.
