The Saul Zaentz Innovation Fund in Film and Media at Johns Hopkins University is expanding its support for Baltimore-based independent filmmakers with new postproduction, distribution and training re
The program is adding a postproduction award and a fellowship position for an emerging journalistic filmmaker through a partnership with Evident, an Emmy Award-winning nonprofit newsroom focused on visual journalism. Applications for the new cohort are open through September 22, 2026.
“The filmmaker’s story always comes first,” said AnnettePorter, director of the Saul Zaentz Innovation Fund. Porter said the expanded reproduction, including the often-lengthy process of completing and distributing independent films
Through the Evident partnership, one emerging visual journalist will receive a fellowship to develop an investigative documentary combining journalistic reporting with cinematic storytelling. The fellowship will also include access to a distribution platform.
The fund is also introducing an independent film distribution training lab developed with Amy Hobby, co-founder of Distribution Advocates, as well as editing and producing workshops led by industry professionals.
Based at the JHU-MICA Film Center, the Saul Zaentz Innovation Fund has supported more than 200 Fellows since its launch in 2016, providing more than $9 million in training and direct project support. Films from its Fellows have received additional backing from organizations including PBS, the Open Society Institute and ProPublica and have screened at festivals including Sundance, Tribeca, SXSW and BlackStar.
The expansion comes as Baltimore gains broader recognition as an independent filmmaking center. IndieWire recently included the city on its 2026 list of top U.S. cities for independent filmmakers, citing its film history, proximity to Washington, D.C., and growing filmmaking infrastructure.
Founded in 2016, the Saul Zaentz Innovation Fund connects Baltimore’s creative community with filmmakers, executives and entrepreneurs while supporting the development of audiovisual projects. The organization said its Fellows’ projects have generated employment for more than 1,000 people across Baltimore’s film community.
