Get ready for an electrifying episode of “Early Days” as host Jackie Rae Greening dives deep with the incredible Tom Viinikka, a force behind the scenes at the Edmonton Screen Industries Office, pioneering the charge to put Edmonton on the map for film, TV, and video games. Tom unveils the remarkable transformation from the Edmonton Film Commission to ESIO, unveiling their dynamic strategies to lure productions to the city, prepare breathtaking locations, and champion the local screen industry. Join us as we uncover Edmonton’s meteoric rise in the entertainment realm, and explore the captivating challenges and thrilling opportunities it presents.
Tom Viinikka is a lifelong entrepreneur who has spent significant time in the tech sector. Born and raised in Edmonton, Tom grew up with a passion for sports and musical instruments. Tom has been the CEO of the Edmonton Screen Industries Office (ESIO) for the last two years. As a lifelong leader and entrepreneur, Tom loves to learn and grow and to help those around him. Tom emphasizes the role of ESIO in promoting Edmonton, both as a location for the film industry and other screen-related ventures.
Tom expresses the need to showcase Edmonton’s diverse locations, infrastructure, and supportive community, noting the economic benefits and opportunities that arise from hosting major productions like “The Last of Us.” Tom and the ESIO continue to support content development, while fostering creative communities, and addressing the industry’s unique needs.
Welcome to “Early Days,” presented by Prowse Chowne, your guide to entrepreneurship, business beginnings and beyond. The “Early Days” podcast provides insights and tips for business owners and entrepreneurs as it relates to their early days. This includes the actual start of their business, the successes and challenges. “Early Days” also explores the highlighted businesses in terms of new offerings, services, team growth, expansion to new locations, and more.
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