In 2025, AFCI will celebrate its 50th anniversary, a milestone highlighting five decades of leadership, collaboration, and innovation in the global screen sector. Since its founding in 1975, AFCI has served as the world’s leading professional organization for film commissions, offering its members critical resources, education, advocacy, and networking opportunities. Its impact can be seen in the countless regions that have leveraged AFCI’s support to develop their film industries, attract international productions, and drive economic growth.

One such success story is Castilla-La Mancha, a historic region in Spain that has embraced its potential as a premier filming destination. Thanks to its participation in AFCI, the Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission has enhanced its services, strengthened its international presence, and secured new opportunities that have transformed its audiovisual landscape.

Mike Villanueva, Film Commissioner of the Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission, reflects on the significance of being part of AFCI:

“Being part of the AFCI network has been a significant milestone for our region, as it provides an invaluable platform to exchange experiences with colleagues from around the globe. This engagement not only enriches our perspective but also allows us to contribute our unique insights as representatives of Castilla-La Mancha, a region steeped in history and cultural richness that is increasingly becoming a sought-after destination for audiovisual productions.”​

For Castilla-La Mancha, AFCI has been more than just a professional network—it has been a catalyst for growth, international collaboration, and economic impact. Through AFCI’s commitment to professional development and knowledge-sharing, the Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission has gained access to cutting-edge industry trends, essential training programs, and strategies that enhance its service offerings to production companies.

A Global Platform for a Regional Treasure

Nestled in the heart of Spain, Castilla-La Mancha is a region brimming with history and cultural richness. Known for its picturesque landscapes and architectural gems, it has become a sought-after destination for filmmakers worldwide. According to Mike Villanueva, AFCI’s influence has been pivotal in showcasing the region’s potential on an international stage.

Before joining the network, the region had an abundance of scenic locations but lacked the international recognition and industry infrastructure necessary to compete with other European filming destinations. However, through AFCI’s training programs, best practice guidelines, and networking opportunities, Castilla-La Mancha has become a more attractive location for global productions.

Villanueva emphasizes the role of AFCI in strengthening Castilla-La Mancha’s global presence:

“AFCI’s commitment to continuous professional development has been instrumental in ensuring that we consistently improve our work. The access to resources, training programs, and industry trends has empowered us to elevate the services and opportunities we offer to production companies, reinforcing our position as a reliable and innovative Film Commission.”​

Connection & Community 

A key aspect of AFCI’s support has been its focus on connecting film commissions with major studios, independent producers, and decision-makers in the screen sector. This exposure has allowed Castilla-La Mancha to showcase its diverse landscapes, historic towns, and production-friendly policies to a global audience. Villanueva shares: 

“A standout example of collaboration is The English, filmed on the Mesa de Ocaña in Toledo. This project was a milestone, showcasing our region’s potential to host large-scale productions and positioning us as a prime location for “Westerns made in Spain.” The incredible results of this production not only elevated our global profile but also demonstrated the advantages of the high standards and professional training encouraged by AFCI.” 

Additionally, AFCI’s industry events, such as Cineposium and the AFCI Week, have provided Castilla-La Mancha with direct access to international film professionals. These platforms allow film commissions to pitch their locations, establish partnerships, and learn from the experiences of other regions that have successfully built their screen industries.

Villanueva also adds more about their relationships with the Ibero-American Film Commission Network. 

“AFCI has been instrumental in fostering connections between the Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission and the Ibero-American Film Commissions, providing us with invaluable opportunities to collaborate and strengthen our efforts as a united cultural block.” 

“ [This] is a direct result of the connections facilitated by AFCI. This network represents a significant step in bridging Spain and Latin America from a professional standpoint, emphasizing the importance of shared knowledge and coordinated efforts. AFCI has provided the international umbrella under which these relationships flourish, guiding us toward a more unified and effective approach.” 

Landscapes, Heritage, and Global Appeal: Castilla-La Mancha’s Growth

One of Castilla-La Mancha’s most notable achievements within the AFCI framework has been its ability to showcase its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery to international filmmakers. The region, famously known as the setting for Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote, offers a diverse range of filming locations, from medieval castles and vast plains to picturesque villages and modern urban centers.

Under the guidance of the AFCI, the Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission has refined its promotional strategies to attract productions seeking authentic and visually stunning settings. As a result, the region has seen an increase in both domestic and international productions, boosting the local economy and providing job opportunities for local talent and businesses.

According to Villanueva, a defining moment for the Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission was its participation in an AFCI-organized industry event:

“A memorable moment for us was participating in an AFCI-organized event where we connected directly with industry leaders from around the world. This experience reinforced our belief that Castilla-La Mancha has a rightful place on the global map of filmmaking.”​

The region’s inclusion in major productions has not only generated economic benefits but also reinforced Castilla-La Mancha’s cultural identity. Film and television projects shot in the region help showcase its unique traditions, architecture, and landscapes to audiences worldwide, boosting tourism and cultural pride.

Professional Development as a Cornerstone

AFCI’s emphasis on professional development has elevated the Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission’s ability to serve productions of all scales. Through specialized training programs, Villanueva and his team honed their skills in location management, production logistics, and environmental stewardship.

Villanueva adds more about the impact professional development has had on their region: 

“The television series El Zorro, filmed in Toledo for over 12 weeks, was successfully facilitated thanks to the tools and knowledge provided by AFCI’s training programs. These resources enabled our team to manage the complex logistics of international production, ensuring a seamless experience for the filmmakers.” 

The production showcased Toledo’s unique heritage and landscapes and brought significant economic benefits to the region, aligning perfectly with the high standards and sustainable practices advocated by AFCI. This project is a testament to how AFCI’s support empowers Film Commissions to deliver excellence and maximize the impact of global productions. 

“AFCI’s resources helped us attract projects like The English and El Zorro, which showcased our unique landscapes and cultural heritage. These productions not only generated economic activity but also enriched our community’s identity on a global stage​. Villanueva continues”

Sustainability and Innovation in Action

In addition to its professional resources, AFCI’s advocacy for sustainability has guided Castilla-La Mancha toward environmentally responsible filmmaking. A notable example includes a co-production filmed in the region that adhered to sustainable practices, from waste reduction to using local materials. This project demonstrated how AFCI’s initiatives leave a lasting positive impact, aligning large-scale productions with the region’s environmental goals​.

Future Aspirations for Castilla-La Mancha

AFCI’s commitment to fostering growth, sustainability, and innovation in the screen sector has provided film commissions with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

For Castilla-La Mancha, AFCI’s support has not only opened doors to international productions but also encouraged the region to invest in its long-term film infrastructure. Moving forward, the Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission is focused on:

• Expanding production facilities: The region aims to develop modern sound stages, post-production studios, and support services to attract larger-scale projects.
• Enhancing workforce development: Through AFCI-backed training initiatives, the commission seeks to build a skilled local crew base, ensuring that productions have access to top-tier talent.
• Sustainability in filmmaking: Aligning with global industry trends, Castilla-La Mancha is exploring eco-friendly production practices, including green incentives for sustainable filmmaking.
• Strengthening international partnerships: The commission continues to engage with AFCI’s global network to secure co-production opportunities and industry collaborations. For example, the commission’s involvement in the Ibero-American Film Commission Network—a collaborative platform between Spain and Latin America—has allowed Castilla-La Mancha to share strategies and best practices with other film commissions.

Villanueva encapsulates the impact of AFCI on Castilla-La Mancha’s growth:

“Ultimately, AFCI represents not just a network but a shared vision of excellence and growth in the audiovisual sector. For Castilla-La Mancha, this journey has been transformative, opening doors to global opportunities and strengthening our ability to support creative projects that leave a lasting impact.”​

Looking Ahead

While AFCI celebrates its past achievements, the organization remains committed to shaping the future of the screen industry. The next chapter of AFCI’s journey will focus on deepening its impact, enhancing resources for film commissions, and championing best practices that align with emerging trends such as virtual production, artificial intelligence, and environmental responsibility.

As AFCI looks ahead, regions like Castilla-La Mancha serve as powerful case studies of how strategic collaboration and industry support can transform local film economies. The successes of film commissions worldwide are a testament to AFCI’s dedication to enabling high-quality productions while fostering economic and cultural growth.

AFCI at 50 is not just a milestone but a reminder of the power of collaboration, innovation, and shared success. The journey is just beginning for Castilla-La Mancha and countless other film commissions worldwide.

About Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission

The Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission is dedicated to showcasing the region’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic production infrastructure to filmmakers worldwide. With AFCI’s support, it continues to position Castilla-La Mancha as a premier destination for global storytelling, attracting major productions while fostering local industry growth. Learn more at Castilla-La Mancha Film Commission.