Rockport’s new Digital Media Friendly Texas certification marks a milestone, attracting investments and job growth in digital media.
The City of Rockport has been designated a Digital Media Friendly Texas Certified Community by the Texas Film Commission, making it only the fifth city in the state to earn the distinction.
The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office within the Office of the Governor announced the certification following Rockport’s completion of a multi-step process. The Rockport Cultural Arts District will manage the program locally.
The Digital Media Friendly Texas program was created to encourage digital media production statewide while supporting job growth in animation, visual effects, video game development and extended reality industries.
With the newest designation, Rockport now holds all three of the state’s production-friendly certifications — Film Friendly Texas, Music Friendly Texas and Digital Media Friendly Texas.
“Texas is a leader in innovation,” Gov. Greg Abbott said. “Building on our state’s long history of film and television production, industry leaders in Texas now play a major role in digital media production. I thank the Texas Film Commission for working with our communities to help market their existing assets, unique attributes, and skilled workforce to attract new investments in digital media production and grow local jobs.”
State Sen. Lois Kolkhorst said the certification carries real economic weight for the region.
“Rockport’s designation as a Digital Media Friendly Texas Certified Community is more than just a title — it is a signal to businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators that this community is ready to compete in today’s economy,” Kolkhorst said. “This achievement will help attract new investment, support local job creation, and strengthen opportunities for families and small businesses across the Coastal Bend for years to come.”
State Rep. Todd Hunter also praised the achievement.
“Rockport’s designation as a Digital Media Friendly Texas Certified Community is a tremendous achievement for the Coastal Bend and a reflection of the region’s growing role in Texas’ creative economy,” Hunter said. “I appreciate Governor Abbott and the Texas Film Commission for recognizing Rockport’s commitment to supporting innovation, tourism and economic development through media and film opportunities.”
Rockport City Manager Vanessa Shrauner said the designation positions the city for growth in a rapidly changing industry.
“This designation is an exciting step forward for Rockport,” Shrauner said. “Being recognized as a Digital Media Friendly Texas Certified Community opens the door to new economic opportunities through film, media and creative production. It gives us another way to showcase Rockport’s beauty, support local businesses, attract visitors and position our community for growth in a rapidly expanding digital economy.”