Minneapolis, MN – Westbone Productions, founded by Leonard Searcy, proudly presents the highly anticipated MegaMiXer, a groundbreaking two-day cross-industry networking event set for October 19 and 20 in Minneapolis/St. Paul. As one of the Midwest’s premier gatherings for visionaries and innovators, this year’s MegaMiXer will bridge the gap in inclusivity across TV, film, and various industries, offering a unique platform for creatives to connect, collaborate, and grow.
The event, presented by Westbone Productions, will showcase diversity within the entertainment industry by fostering connections between filmmakers, tech entrepreneurs, legal experts, investors, and more. In addition to these opportunities, brands can meet talented individuals to add to their teams, helping to diversify their media teams and strengthen their creative output. Westbone Productions is committed to building a more inclusive industry in the upper Midwest, with hopes of sparking meaningful change beyond the event.
This year’s MegaMiXer comes at an exciting time for Minnesota’s entertainment industry, as the state continues to offer several initiatives designed to make it a hub for filmmakers.
Event Details:
Day 1 – The Mixer
Date: October 19, 2024
Time: 10 AM – 6 PM
Location: Cinequipt, 2601 49th Ave N #500, Minneapolis, MN 55430
Day 2 – The Remix
Date: October 20, 2024
Time: 10 AM – 10 PM
Location: Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA), 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404
What to Expect:
- Unparalleled Networking: Connect with professionals, from award-winning filmmakers to tech innovators and financial experts.
- Industry Insights: Learn from renowned speakers such as Hollywood director Kasi Lemmons, Coca-Cola’s Alison Chaney, and Bremer Bank’s Trent Bowman.
- Investment Opportunities: Build relationships with investors across various industries.
- Interactive Workshops: Participate in sessions like the Screenwriters Workshop and explore cross-industry skill applications.
- Innovation Showcase: Discover the latest in film technology, fashion, and disruptive business models.
- Career-Defining Connections: Past attendees have secured opportunities with major networks like Netflix, Best Buy, CBS, and The CW.
Event Highlights:
- UMFO Speed Networking
- Screenwriters Workshop
- Greenlit Pitching Session
- Cross-Industry Panel Discussions
- Investment and Funding Forum
- Cutting-Edge Technology Demos
- Fashion Meets Film Showcase
- Legal and Financial Workshops for Creatives
Minnesota: The Land of Opportunities for Filmmakers
Minnesota is quickly becoming a destination for filmmakers, supported by several key initiatives:
- The Film Production Tax Credit provides a 25% income tax credit to production companies that spend at least $1,000,000 in eligible costs within a 12-month period. As of May 2024, $53.7 million in credits remain available.
- The Explore Minnesota Film Office promotes the state to Hollywood producers and administers tax credits, while assisting filmmakers with locations, crew, permitting, and more.
- The Duluth Film Tax Credit offers a 25% reimbursement on production and post-production costs, enhancing northern Minnesota’s appeal for content creation.
These incentives not only attract filmmakers but also help to promote diversity and representation in the industry. Nationwide, only 28.6% of lead roles in film are held by people of color, and Minnesota’s film industry faces similar disparities. With one of the largest theater scenes outside of New York and LA, Minnesota boasts the third-largest acting pool, giving filmmakers access to top-tier talent.
A Commitment to Diversity and Representation
Leonard Searcy and the MegaMiXer team are committed to addressing these disparities by creating spaces where filmmakers from underrepresented communities can thrive. The MegaMiXer will promote inclusivity and create a platform for filmmakers from all backgrounds to flourish.
Our Current Higher-Level Sponsors:
- Minnesota Humanities Center
- New Justice Project
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- CineQuipt
- AV For You
- City of Lakes Entertainment
Don’t Miss This Opportunity!
Join us for the Midwest’s most exciting convergence of creativity, innovation, and opportunity!
Media Contact
Company Name: Wild-Eyed VisionAries Consulting & Media Group
Contact Person: Tephanie Delaney
Email: Send Email
Phone: 7638079578
Country: United States
Website: https://westboneproductions.com/