Utah Film Commission Data Study

The State of Utah Division of Purchasing, specifically the Utah Film Commission, is seeking professional services to conduct a comprehensive data study on the Rural Film Incentive Program. The primary objective is to analyze the economic and community impact of the program, which provides post-performance rebates for film productions in rural Utah counties. Contractors will be required to review historical data from 2023-present, conduct primary and secondary data collection through surveys and interviews, assess program impacts, and provide recommendations for improvement. The study must include a final report and presentation by December 1, 2025, with interim deliverables and stakeholder presentations at key milestones. Evaluation of potential contractors will be based on a 100-point scoring system, with 60% weight on organizational experience and expertise and 40% on technical approach and methodology. The procurement is scheduled to be posted on September 8, 2025, with proposals due by September 15, 2025, under a small purchase threshold of $100,000.00.

There are no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on organizational types mentioned in the procurement documents. The study is part of a broader initiative by the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity to strengthen rural economies and support targeted industries. The Rural Film Incentive Program, created by the Utah State Legislature in 2023, has allocated $12 million annually and is up for renewal in 2026, supplementing the existing Motion Picture Incentive Program's approximately $8 million in ongoing funds. Previous economic impact studies have demonstrated significant returns, with a 7.0 gross value added (GVA) return on investment and the ability to generate substantial economic activity. The project budget is set at $20,000, and the procurement will be conducted by the Utah Office of Tourism, with the ability to conduct interviews and request clarifications throughout the selection process. Vendors are explicitly instructed not to include pricing information in their qualifications, with the intent to negotiate a contract at compensation determined to be fair and reasonable.