About Us

The Mayor's Office of Cultural Economy is dedicated to fostering economic growth and vitality within New Orleans' diverse cultural sectors. Our mission is to create an environment where artists, creatives, and cultural producers can thrive, contributing to the overall economic well-being of our city.

We achieve this by:

  • Developing initiatives and programs that support the growth and sustainability of the cultural economy.
  • Curating events and experiences that showcase the talent and creativity of our local artists and cultural organizations.
  • Forging strategic partnerships with businesses, institutions, and community groups to amplify the impact of our cultural assets.
  • Connecting with the community to ensure that the benefits of the cultural economy are accessible and inclusive.

Our office recognizes the immense potential of the cultural economy to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development. By leveraging these qualities, we aim to integrate cultural considerations into a wide range of City projects and priorities, ensuring that the unique character and creativity of New Orleans are woven into the fabric of our city's growth and development.

Through our work, we strive to:

  • Support the creation and sustainability of jobs in the cultural sector
  • Attract and retain creative talent in New Orleans
  • Enhance the visibility and recognition of our cultural assets on a local, national, and international scale
  • Foster a sense of pride and belonging among all members of our community through cultural engagement and participation
  • We believe that by investing in our cultural economy, we are not only supporting the livelihoods of our artists and creatives but also contributing to the overall resilience, vibrancy, and prosperity of New Orleans.

Film New Orleans partners with local and state economic development organizations to attract film productions and film infrastructure investment to the city; partners with local non-profits and state economic development organizations to produce workforce training programs with a pathway to film industry employment; compiles film data for the city and region. Film New Orleans serves as the city’s One Stop Shop for Film Permitting intaking and processing all film and location permits.