In 2025, stakeholders from Golden Community Economic Development, the Town of Golden, Tourism Golden, the Golden Chamber of Commerce, Kicking Horse Culture and local filmmaker/producer Elora Braden, created a film sector development roundtable. This collaborative effort laid the foundation for a coordinated approach to growing Golden’s presence in the film and television industry.
Building on this work, Golden joined the Kootenay Film Commission earlier this year and started the groundwork for a new film readiness project designed to position Golden as a destination for film, television, and digital media production.
The goal of this initiative is to strengthen Golden’s economic development opportunities while showcasing the region’s unique landscapes, vibrant community, and local infrastructure to the industry.
By joining the Kootenay Film Commission, Golden will benefit from increased visibility within British Columbia’s thriving film sector, improved coordination with regional partners, and access to industry expertise. The film readiness project will focus on building local capacity by identifying and building a photo library of suitable filming locations, reviewing permitting processes, and supporting local businesses and workforce development to meet production needs.
“Golden is uniquely positioned to attract film and television productions thanks to our stunning natural environment, geographic advantage and welcoming community. This project will make sure we are ready to capitalize on these opportunities in a way that benefits our local economy and respects our community values.”
– Jill Dewtie, Executive Director of Golden CED.
The initiative is expected to generate a range of economic benefits, including increased spending at local businesses, new employment opportunities, and expanded exposure for Golden as a travel destination. The film sector development roundtable is committed to ensuring that film activity aligns with environmental stewardship and community well-being.
“Film can be a powerful driver of economic development and diversification,” said Dewtie “Our focus is on doing it right, making sure that growth in this sector is thoughtful, sustainable, and beneficial for residents and businesses.”
For more information and opportunities to get involved in the film readiness project, visit Film in Golden
