Shownotes:
Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/nafta-films/
Interview Questions:
- Name and Services of the Company
Nafta Films, founded in 2009, has become the largest full-service production house in the Baltic region. With offices in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania,
We are focused on developing/co-producing features and TV series and providing production services. To be sustainable in a small market and to have around 30 people on payroll, we provide service for commercials, having a separate department for that.
- What is the tax incentive in the target countries
Estonia offers several funding schemes:
All three countries require local production company involvement and generally offer combinations of direct funding, tax incentives, and regional support.
- Film Estonia Cash Rebate (€6,000,000 budget)
- 20-30% rebate on eligible costs
- Open call with 30-day decision period
- Covers features, documentaries, animation, TV series
- Different minimum budgets required (e.g., €1M for features)
- Regional Funds:
- Tartu Film Fund (€150,000) – up to 35% support
- Viru Film Fund (€200,000) – up to 40% support
- Pärnu County Film Fund (€100,000) – up to 25% support
- Film Fund of Estonian Islands (€30,005) – support varies by project
Latvia provides:
- Cash Rebate through Investment and Development Agency of Latvia
- Up to 30% on eligible costs
- Open call announced in February
- Minimum budgets apply (€711,436 for features)
- Riga Film Fund of the Council of Riga (€800,000 budget)
- 20-25% cash rebate
- Higher rate (25%) if story features Riga
- Open until September 30
Lithuania offers:
- Film Tax Incentive (no budget cap)
- Up to 30% of production budget
- No deadlines
- Minimum spend of €43,000 in Lithuania
- Must meet cultural criteria and have minimum 3 shooting days in Lithuania
- What about crew base and availability
The Baltic region has developed a solid film production infrastructures.
Infrastructure & Crew Base
- The Baltic region offers experienced film production crews skilled for major films, Danish-style, and indie productions
- Most professionals speak English and work across all 3 countries, with Vilnius housing the largest crew base
- Regarding price level the budgeting shows 30% Lower rates compared to Western Europe.
Crews are experienced with international productions.Many crew members work across all three Baltic countries. Vilnius has largest crew base among all Baltics.Known for experienced production management teams.
Speaking about bases, we are lucky to have great partner operating also in all 3 Baltic countries, with facilities and equipment that were designed for servicing production on a commercial level. Backstage paviljons, as well as production offices, costume and make-up areas are equipped with solar panels on roof, which allow to work on green energy almost all day. As well they provide proper recycling bins and organize local electricity if needed for green production.
Same team is providing great location presentations for all 3 countries as well.
Technical Capabilities & Services
- Comprehensive location scouting across all three countries
- Strong rental equipment support and technical expertise
- Specialized VR studio technicians in Latvia
Modern Infrastructure & Business Environment
- Efficient transportation network connecting to major European cities
- High-speed internet coverage
- Digital-friendly ecosystem with platforms like Skype, Bolt, and Wise
- Transparent business practices