As the global film and TV industry continues shifting toward foreign production hubs, a new coalition is stepping forward to ensure that American film and television stays rooted in the place where it began. The Coalition for American Production (CAP) has officially launched this week to represent the voice of U.S.-based production businesses— vendors, soundstage owners, production companies, post houses, and crew employers—whose survival now hinges on the passage of federal legislation.

These are the companies and craftspeople at the heart of the entertainment industry. Without action, that heart risks being hollowed out.

CAP is being led by veteran producers and business leaders with a track record of getting things done. Founders Rudy Callegari and Andrew Stern previously spearheaded New York’s Production Initiatives Association (PIA), the coalition credited with helping push through aggressive new tax credit legislation that reignited New York’s production economy. With CAP, they’re taking that model national. “We have the playbook and the relationships,” said Stern. “Now we’re bringing it to Washington.”

The leadership team also includes Jason Fisher, former head of production at Disney and founder of global soundstage marketplace StageRunner, serving as Executive Director; Emmy-nominated producer Jackie Stolfi, named East Coast Executive Director; and Gannon Murphy, EVP of Cinelease Studios, a founding board member and one of the country’s leading voices on infrastructure development.

Together, they’re rallying industry voices that too often go unheard—those operating behind the scenes, powering the ecosystem that brings stories to life.

While individual state incentives have helped keep some productions local, they’re no longer enough. Global competitors now offer national programs designed to attract productions at scale—leaving the U.S. without a cohesive strategy. CAP intends to change that.

“There’s a gap, and we need to close it—fast,” said Stern. “Our aim isn’t to replace international partners; it’s to make sure the U.S. remains a competitive place to tell stories and create jobs.”

With momentum building in Washington—thanks to proposals from leaders like Gov. Gavin Newsom and Rep. Adam Schiff—CAP sees a narrow but critical window to act. The coalition is actively assembling members across the country and preparing its federal legislative strategy now.

To build awareness and drive participation, CAP will host a live informational webinar on Tuesday, June 18 at 11am PST / 2pm EST. The session will outline the federal roadmap ahead and share how the broader production community can get involved.

CAP is asking studios, vendors, crew employers, and creatives alike to join the cause, amplify the message, and reach out to their representatives. “This moment requires a show of unity,” said Stolfi. “We’re not asking for every production to stay here—we’re asking the U.S. government to do what nearly every other production hub in the world already does: back the businesses and workers that make this industry possible.”

To register for the June 18th webinar, or to join the campaign, visit JoinCAP.org.