City Program Connects Your Biz to Show Biz

April 1, 2007 - Looking to tap into business from the City’s $5 billion entertainment industry? The Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting’s "Made in NY" Discount Card program can introduce your business to the industry.

The program – intended to encourage the entertainment industry to patronize local businesses and make it more affordable for the industry to work in New York City – promotes companies which agree to offer discounts of at least ten percent to the entertainment industry on the MOFTB website. The agency issues "Made in NY" Discount Cards to cast and crew working on films, television shows, commercials and theatrical productions in the City. The cards are valid for the length of time that their projects are in production, and are presented at participating vendors to obtain the discounts. So far, more than 10,000 cards have been issued.

"As one of the first companies to sign up to participate in the 'Made In NY' card program, we’ve seen production companies take advantage of the discount at all of our New York area Applebee’s and Chevys restaurants," Stephen Ekstrom, Director of Groups and Tourism at Apple-Metro Restaurants said. "This includes upwards of $15,000 in sales within the card’s first 3 months. We’re proud to display the 'Made In NY' sticker at each of our locations."

Businesses can participate by offering discounts on goods and services in the following categories: animals & handlers; banking services; books & magazines; camera, grip & lighting; casting & talent; catering; computers & electronics; construction & set design; digital effects; dry cleaners; DVD authoring & protection; emergency planning & consulting; entertainment & nightlife; event planning & marketing; exercise & fitness; flowers & gifts; food & restaurants; garbage & waste removal; groups & associations; hair & makeup; hardware & tools; hotels & extended stay facilities; jewelry; locations & rental space; manufacturing materials & supplies; marine & water services; medical services; moving, storage & trailers; music, audio & sound; museums, galleries & tours; office supplies & services; payrolling & personnel; production companies; props; post production & training; scenic supplies; security; software & internet services; spa & massage; stock footage & photography; travel & transportation; vehicles & picture cars; and wardrobe.

Interested in participating? Click here for more information.