The Boulder County Film Commission launched its first-ever Creative Directory during the Fall Schmoozer event on November 7, 2023. Held at the historic Dickens Opera House in Longmont, the gathering attracted over 300 filmmakers, photographers, designers, and digital professionals. This initiative aims to connect local creatives with businesses seeking their services.
Developed by Film Commissioner Bruce Borowsky and supported by the Boulder Chamber, the directory features more than 200 local businesses and creatives across various sectors, including film, photography, and web design. The 76-page, full-color publication includes a diverse array of specialists, from aerial drone videographers to talent agencies. Its purpose is to bridge the gap between the creative community and local businesses.
According to a press release from the Boulder Chamber, the directory is available both online and in print. It also showcases stories highlighting notable filmmakers and contributors to Boulder County’s creative landscape. “This is something I’ve wanted to do for a number of years and hadn’t been able to figure out the best way to make it happen,” Borowsky stated. “With the support of the Boulder Chamber, I was finally able to make it happen.”
This resource addresses a persistent issue: local businesses often turn to firms in Denver when searching for creative services, as those companies dominate online search results. Borowsky emphasized the importance of utilizing local talent, stating, “People don’t have to look elsewhere. We have everything right here. It’s very important to not only shop local but to work with local creative talent.”
Event Highlights and Future Plans
The launch event featured remarks from Boulder-based filmmaker and Academy Award-nominated producer Paula DuPré Pesman, who now serves as the managing director of the Sundance Film Festival in its Boulder iteration. She was joined by Jeff Levine, Sundance’s head of audience experience and development. Their presence underscored the growing partnership between the Boulder County Film Commission and Sundance organizers ahead of the festival’s relocation to Boulder in 2027.
During the event, attendees had the chance to network over drinks, discussing projects and exchanging ideas. “No matter how good the presentations are at these events, people truly just can’t wait to get back to networking,” Borowsky noted. This atmosphere of collaboration is crucial, as many creatives often work in isolation.
The Film Commission also presented its annual Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring the late Brad Gilbert, founder of People Productions. Gilbert’s family accepted the award on his behalf. He passed away in October 2024 after a prolonged battle with a brain disease.
Looking ahead, Borowsky announced plans for the next schmoozer event in February 2024, coinciding with the Sundance Film Festival’s last iteration in Utah before moving to Boulder. The festival is held annually in January. Additionally, Sundance is already planning two significant events for 2026, including the inaugural Boulder Creative Expo, which aims to connect local creatives with the business community.
As Borowsky concluded, “The next time a business needs a photographer or someone to make a video about their company, they’ll already have met them. It’s all about community. That’s really what this work comes down to.”
Printed copies of the Creative Directory were made available at the event, with additional copies accessible for free at the Boulder Chamber, located at 2440 Pearl St., Boulder, during business hours. The digital version can be found at the Boulder County Film Commission’s website at bouldercountyfilmcommission.com.
