The Boulder County Film Commission unveiled its first-ever Creative Directory at a networking event on October 24, 2023, attracting over 300 participants from various creative industries. Hosted at the historic Dickens Opera House in Longmont, this event combined community engagement with the launch of a comprehensive resource aimed at connecting local creatives with businesses in need of their services.
Developed by Film Commissioner Bruce Borowsky in collaboration with the Boulder Chamber, the directory includes more than 200 local businesses and professionals specializing in film, photography, web design, and other creative sectors. The glossy, 76-page publication features a diverse range of specialists, from aerial drone videographers to scriptwriters, and is designed to facilitate connections between creative talent and local businesses.
According to a press release from the Boulder Chamber, the directory will help businesses streamline their search for creative services, which often lead them to hire firms outside Boulder County. “People don’t have to look elsewhere,” Borowsky emphasized. “We have everything right here. It’s very important to not only shop local but to work with local creative talent.”
The printed copies of the directory made their debut at the schmoozer, with hundreds distributed to attendees. Those interested can find additional copies for free at the Boulder Chamber, located at 2440 Pearl St., Boulder, or access the digital version on the Boulder County Film Commission’s website.
Bridging the Creative and Business Communities
Borowsky noted that the directory addresses a significant issue: the separation between local creative professionals and businesses seeking their services. “Usually, the arts and business are very separate,” he explained. “I can bring those two things together in a way that typically isn’t done.” This initiative reflects his desire to foster collaboration between these two spheres, which is often overlooked.
The event also featured remarks from Paula DuPré Pesman, a Boulder-based filmmaker and the managing director of the Sundance Film Festival for its upcoming Boulder iteration. Her involvement, alongside Jeff Levine, head of audience experience and development for Sundance, highlighted the growing partnership between the Boulder County Film Commission and Sundance organizers ahead of the festival’s relocation to Boulder in 2027.
The networking event, often referred to as a “schmoozer,” provided attendees with the opportunity to connect informally. “No matter how good the presentations are at these events, people truly just can’t wait to get back to networking,” Borowsky remarked. This was evident as guests mingled, discussing projects and exchanging ideas, creating an atmosphere buzzing with creativity.
Honoring Contributions to Local Filmmaking
During the event, the Film Commission also presented its annual Lifetime Achievement Award, posthumously honoring Brad Gilbert, the founder of People Productions in Boulder. Gilbert’s ex-wife and son accepted the award on his behalf. He passed away at the age of 65 in October 2024 after a long battle with a brain disease.
In a nod to the future, Borowsky announced plans for the next schmoozer, scheduled for February 2024, which will follow the Sundance Film Festival’s final event in Utah before its move to Boulder. The Film Commission is also planning two significant events for 2026, including the inaugural Boulder Creative Expo, aimed at connecting local creatives with the business community.
Borowsky emphasized the importance of fostering local relationships, stating, “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.”
As the creative landscape evolves in Boulder County, initiatives like the Creative Directory and events like the schmoozer are pivotal in bridging gaps between talent and opportunity.
