Every year, international film markets and festivals bring together thousands of film industry professionals: producers, directors, distributors and public institutions. For the Valais Film Commission, these events are invaluable opportunities not only to promote our region as a filming location, but also to establish strategic partnerships by providing information on the facilitation and support mechanisms available.

Networking: a key factor.
Attending these flagship events is first and foremost a way of forging links with producers and directors looking for shooting locations. Thanks to targeted meetings, the VFC can present its advantages, as well as those of the Valais, particularly in terms of the diversity of settings (plains, mountains, factories, picturesque villages, etc.) and proximity.

This also allows us to target and understand the reality of the “field” by talking directly to professionals in the audiovisual sector.

Highlighting facilitation work and financial incentives.
In addition to the natural and cultural assets of our region, producers also need to be made aware of the schemes in place to encourage them to come and film in Valais. At festivals and markets, the VFC emphasises its role in providing personalised support: help in obtaining permits, dialogue with the local authorities, contacts with local service providers, logistical support, and so on. This saves valuable time and money!

Another powerful argument is the cash rebate, which enables productions to benefit from partial reimbursement of expenses incurred in the territory (up to a maximum of CHF 100,000).

The VFC is also working to raise awareness of how films are financed in Switzerland and to create a network of Swiss producers to facilitate filming in the Valais.

Taking part in panels to promote Switzerland and the Valais.
The conferences and themed panels are opportunities to present the specific features of Switzerland and the Valais as a filming location: varied landscapes, modern infrastructure, local know-how, but also the challenges linked to legislation, production costs and climatic conditions.

Speaking at these panels helps to attract the attention of producers and share experiences of successful shoots, boosting credibility and attractiveness to industry professionals.

Showcasing the diversity of sets.
Another fundamental aspect of the VFC’s mission is to highlight the diversity of locations that the Valais has to offer. Whether through screenings, brochures, meetings or location scouting, the VFC demonstrates that the Valais is a veritable open-air studio:

• • Majestic mountains ideal for adventure films or grandiose landscapes.
  • Plains and lakes that can serve as the backdrop for dramas and historical accounts.
  • Industrial and urban infrastructures offering a modern and varied atmosphere.
  • A 400 square metre studio in the centre of the Valais that can be used to create any set.