Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI) is worldwide network of more than 360 commissions from 40 countries on every continent except Antarctica. The AFCI represents trained, experienced and professional Film Commissioners and their offices and staff, sets standards and provides professional education, offers training and business services in the field of Film Commissioning, and provides regular marketing and network opportunities in Hollywood and around the world for Film Commissions. History The AFCI was founded in 1975 to serve the growing needs of on-location film and television production. Originally, the AFCI was formed by a small group of film commissioners who wanted to share information and learn from one another's experiences. The AFCI incorporated in Washington, D.C. in 1983. Since then, the AFCI has expanded into a worldwide network of more than 360 commissions from 40 countries on every continent except Antarctica. Members Members of the AFCI are Film Commissions from around the world. A film commission is a purpose-built organization or department set up by an interested city, county, state / province or federal government with the specific mandate of promoting and developing filming activity within the jurisdiction. The primary goal of any film commission is to attract film and video production to an area in order to accrue locally realized benefits from hiring local crews and talent, renting local equipment, using hotel rooms, rental cars, catering services, or any number of goods and services supplied on location. In other words, Film Offices attract Film & TV productions to their locations, and then ensure that the location capitalizes on that production activity. Member Film Commissions have typically been established by cities, counties, states / provinces or federal governments, and are generally operated and funded by various agencies of government, such as the governor's office, the mayor's office, chambers of commerce, convention and visitors’ bureaus, tourism offices and business and economic development departments. Member Snap Shot Criteria for AFCI Membership In order to be considered "qualified", Film Commissions must meet the following standards. Be endorsed and supported as the film commission for a defined geographic area, by the respective national, state, provincial or local government. Provide core services without fee. Avoid conflicts of interest between the official duties and services of the film commission office and the private financial interests of the film commissioner and film commission employees. Provide full film liaison and location services, and location scouting upon request. Provide