August 10, 2009 - (Seattle, WA) - WashingtonFilmWorks (WFW) has reached its fundraising goal, successfully raising $3.5 million for 2009. WFW would like to thank their 2009 contributing members some of which include Microsoft, Crowne Plaza Hotel-Seattle, W Seattle, The Westin Seattle, Sterling Savings Bank, Von Piglet Productions, and StraightEIGHT Films. The money raised each year allows WFW to facilitate an aggressive incentive, offering funding assistance to film, television, and commercial productions shooting in the state. These productions represent economic opportunity for the state by creating family wage jobs and generating increased revenue among local businesses.

"As board members we are excited to see the growth of our local film industry. It's an exciting time for the film industry in Washington State and we are grateful for all of our investors who have chosen to join with us in this effort." said Becky Bogard, chair of the WFW Board.

Since launching the program in February 2007, WFW has approved 31 productions for funding assistance, including 16 feature films, 4 movies of the week for television, and 11 commercials. These projects create family wage jobs that provide health and retirement benefits and represents an estimated $34.4 million dollars of direct spending in Washington State.

WFW can raise up to $3.5M per calendar year and Washington based businesses with a Business and Occupation tax liability can make cash contributions to WFW and receive a tax credit in return. For more information on how to contribute in January 2010, please visit www.WashingtonFilmWorks.org.

WashingtonFilmWorks is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (6) organization that manages the state film program. The organization was formed pursuant to 2SSB6558, prime sponsored by Senator Lisa Brown of Spokane and passed by the 2006 Washington State Legislature. Its mission is to promote economic vitality in Washington State by encouraging growth in the film and video production industry and to help ensure that Washington State re-emerges on the national and international scene as a premiere destination for motion picture production.

For more information contact Amy Lillard Dee, Executive Director at 206.264.0667 or Amy@washingtonfilmworks.org.