Citizens Financial Group, Inc. provided a $200,000 to the Pittsburgh Film Office to foster the growth and expansion of the film industry in Southwestern Pennsylvania.
The grant, allocated directly to CREATE PA, a program launched by the Pittsburgh Film Office and Pittsburgh Public Theater for workforce training, will create new makeup and wardrobe training tracks within CREATE PA. Designed to attract and retain local talent, the program will equip talent across the Southwestern Pennsylvania region with essential skills, credentials and experience to succeed in costuming and makeup artistry in film and theater.
Officials made the announcement during the August Wilson African American Cultural Center’s Black Bottom Film Festival. During a panel discussion on building the region’s film economy, Citizen announced its intention to fund the grant. Citizens was a title sponsor of the film festival.
“We firmly believe in the power of collaboration and investment to transform local industries and drive the creative economy, and the Pittsburgh film sector is no exception,” Mark Rendulic, EVP & Pittsburgh Market President at Citizens, said. “Through our partnership with the Pittsburgh Film Office and our sponsorship of The Black Bottom Film Festival, we are committed to creating a community where creativity thrives, and where the economic potential of Pittsburgh’s film industry is fully realized.”
During the discussion, Dawn Keezer, executive director of the Pittsburgh Film Office, said the funding would allow the industry to grow in the region.
“This investment is a testament to the belief that the true heartbeat of the film business lies not only in the spotlight but also behind the scenes, where dedicated professionals work tirelessly to bring stories to life,” said Dawn Keezer, Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Film Office. “This grant will empower us to nurture local talent, create new opportunities, and make Pittsburgh an even more enticing destination for filmmakers. Together with Citizens, we are writing a new chapter in Pittsburgh’s cinematic story, one that champions diversity, creativity, and economic growth.”