A new report released today by the Canadian Media Producers Association highlights significant economic benefits generated by the production of just one season of the hit Canadian drama series Sullivan’s Crossing. Production of the show, which took place in Nova Scotia and Ontario, generated $47.55 million in economic activity, contributed $33.83 million to the national GDP, and created 385 full-time equivalent jobs. The CMPA press release can be found HERE and a summary of the report’s main findings can be viewed HERE.
Federal and provincial tax credits and incentives used in the making of the show generated a significant return on investment. Each dollar of provincial government tax credit or incentive invested in the show generated $6.21 in Nova Scotia.
“The Province of Nova Scotia is committed to supporting the film and television sector. We recognize the tremendous economic, cultural and tourism benefit productions like Sullivan’s Crossing bring to our communities. This report affirms what we’ve said all along – the economics of the film and television sector are good business for Nova Scotians, and we look forward to welcoming more productions in the coming years.” – Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston
Today’s report also shows that production directly benefitted 226 local businesses across Nova Scotia and Ontario. This includes hospitality, supply and construction companies, as well as equipment rental, art and design suppliers and more. The series also created 385 full-time equivalent jobs.
“Over the past two years production volume in Nova Scotia has increased from one per cent to three per cent of the Canadian market share, reflecting increased employment for Nova Scotians and significant economic impact in the communities across the province. Screen Nova Scotia is proud to work with our Premier Tim Houston and his government who recognize the economic and cultural strength of our industry. Over the past four years, they have implemented smart and impactful changes to the ecosystem, and today we’re celebrating the resulting momentum.” – Laura Mackenzie, Executive Director, Screen Nova Scotia
Based on a bestselling novel series, Sullivan’s Crossing revolves around the life of a neurosurgeon, who finds herself amid a scandal that forces her to leave her professional and personal life in the city behind. To reconnect with her roots, she returns to her small-town past in rural Nova Scotia and navigates through a journey of self-discovery, family ties and the power of second chances. Filming of the show took place primarily in Nova Scotia, capturing the scenic sites of Halifax, Beaver Bank, and Hubley from October 2022 to June 2023.
Economic analysis for the study was carried out by MNP for the CMPA. The full study is available HERE.