Nathaniel R. A. Spencer, founder and executive director of the Kentucky Black Film Association and the Kentucky Black and Indigenous People of Color United Association—a 501(c)(3) organization—works to support and advocate for Black, Indigenous, and other filmmakers of color in Kentucky’s film and television industry. He says the organization is committed to ensuring that filmmakers have access to training, financing, distribution support, and job opportunities. According to Spencer, “the industry’s here. The train is moving, and this is the time to get on the train while it’s moving at a pace that you can get on it.”
He describes Kentucky as an emerging film hub with growing resources and studio spaces such as Lex Studios, OHD Studios, and the forthcoming facilities planned for the old Louisville Gardens downtown. Spencer believes the state is at a pivotal moment. He says Kentucky is in a position similar to Atlanta’s film scene 20 years ago, but developing with more strategy and long-term planning. He recalls that Kentucky began with a 35 percent tax incentive, but with limited infrastructure, crew, and talent. Since joining the Louisville Film Commission in 2016, he has watched the industry expand from having no major studios to becoming, in 2025, what he calls “an official filming state.” Spencer says the industry generated $200 million last year, noting that Atlanta now brings in billions.
He emphasizes that it is entirely possible to build a film career in Louisville. While some opportunities depend on who you know, Spencer stresses that connections come from putting yourself out there—attending workshops, screenings, and local industry events. He also encourages perseverance: “Look to see what’s available in your area.”
Spencer notes that there are several supportive organizations for filmmakers in Kentucky, including 502 Film, Women in Film, and KBFA BIPOCU, which represents Black, Indigenous, and People of Color United Filmmakers. KBFA BIPOCU was created in response to racial discrimination within the film industry. Spencer recalls his time on the Louisville Film Commission, where he raised concerns about discriminatory hiring practices. He says he referred qualified Black professionals to production sets only to have them turned away because of their race, while less qualified non-Black workers were accepted. This inequity led him to form KBFA BIPOCU. Spencer says he is committed to improving the industry for Black, Brown, Asian, Native American, and other underrepresented individuals who want to work in Kentucky film.
For more information on getting involved with KBFA or the Kentucky BIPOCU Filmmakers Association, visit kybipocufilmmakersassoc.org.
