Women Independent Producers (WIP) was born from a shared realization among mid-career producers that their unique needs for support and resources were not being met. In late 2012, while producing a film, Cornelia Ravenal noticed a glaring gap: most grants, incubators, financing programs, and resources focused on emerging artists, often overlooking the challenges faced by seasoned producers with proven experience.

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Recognizing this, Ravenal hosted a gathering of two dozen women producers at her home, bringing together a group who largely did not know one another. Over food, drinks, and a shared sense of purpose, they discussed their experiences, challenges, and the trials of navigating the entertainment industry as independent producers. This meeting laid the foundation for a deeper connection among the attendees with periodic gatherings over the next two years.

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In March 2015, this informal group joined forces with Film Fatales, a collective of women directors that had recently gained recognition with chapters forming across the U.S. and internationally. The newly formed Film Fatales Producers Chapter, envisioned by Adetoro Makinde, Chair of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Film Fatales, held promise for broader visibility and opportunities. However, it quickly became clear that the paths and needs of producers were distinct from those of directors. As Film Fatales scaled its mission exclusively toward directors, the producers' group decided to forge its own identity. ​Led by co-founders Adetoro Makinde, Brandi Savitt, Cornelia Ravenal, Danelle Eliav, Kelly Bachman, Rachel Watanabe-Batton, and Stephanie Dawson, the steering committee worked to rebrand and refine its mission.

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In January 2016, Women Independent Producers (WIP) was officially launched with a mission to support, collaborate, and promote the work of independent producers who identify as women by fostering strategic partnerships and equitable access to resources worldwide.

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A Growing Legacy of Success
Since its inception, WIP has grown into a powerful network of over 160 award-winning producers. Collectively, WIP members have screened approximately 125 films at major festivals, including Sundance, SXSW, Tribeca, Berlin, Venice, and Cannes. Members span the entertainment landscape, encompassing not only independent producers but also film and television executives in business affairs, financing, marketing, distribution, and programming.

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With prestigious accolades such as Oscar, BAFTA, Golden Globe, Gotham, and Spirit Award nominations and wins, WIP continues to champion independent filmmaking. The organization is a testament to the enduring power of collaboration, the unique contributions of women producers in shaping the global storytelling landscape, and building a community of support and camaraderie.