RANTOUL, Ill. (Chambana Today) —Governor JB Pritzker and state and local officials gathered at Flyover Film Studios on Tuesday to highlight the growing economic impact of Central Illinois’ film industry, which generated $12.3 million in economic activity in Champaign County area in 2025.
Located at the former Chanute Air Force Base, Flyover Film Studios has become a regional hub for film production, using its sound stage, standing sets, and hangars to host projects ranging from documentaries to music videos. The studio was named the 2025 Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year.
“Champaign County is at the forefront of our state’s expanding entertainment industry,” Pritzker said, crediting Flyover Film Studios with helping make Illinois a premier destination for film production.
According to Film Champaign-Urbana, productions in Champaign, Ford, and Piatt counties generated $6.3 million in direct in-state spending in 2025, contributing $7.8 million to Illinois’ gross domestic product and $1.61 million in wages.
State and local leaders also pointed to workforce development efforts supporting the industry, including a $1.1 million Illinois Soundstage Program grant awarded in 2024 and tuition-free film trade training programs with a 100% job placement rate for graduates in 2024.
“Investing in our local film industry has strengthened our economy and created new jobs,” said State Senator Paul Faraci.
Officials said Central Illinois’ growth reflects broader gains statewide, as Illinois film production expenditures reached $653 million in 2024, the second-highest total in state history.
