Film Action Oregon has established the Women’s Film Initiative in recognition that few role models exist for women interested in pursuing filmmaking behind the camera.

Studies have shown that women seldom hold key positions on a film crew. Dr. Martha Lauzen of San Diego State University revealed that in 2004 only 5% of directors, 3% of cinematographers, 16% of editors and 12% of writers on the top 250 films were women. (Source: "The Celluloid Ceiling: Behind-the Scenes Employment of Women in the Top 250 Films of 2004" by Dr. Martha Lauzen August 05, 2005)

The Women’s Film Initiative is comprised of three programs:

• INSPIRE: A Program for Young Women Filmmakers creates opportunities for female high school students to direct, produce, shoot and edit and their own films.

• The Women’s Vision Film Grants will support female filmmakers who tell engaging stories that increase social awareness and tolerance, both within and beyond our immediate communities.

• The Portland Women's Film Festival (POW Fest) celebrates the art and cinematic contribution of women filmmakers from around the world. Presented by Sour Apple Productions and Zonker Films, the Festival is produced in partnership with Film Action Oregon. POW Fest! was held May 15 - 18, 2008 with special guest Allison Anders in attendance. Information will be available soon regarding the 2009 festival

For the last three years, Portland has ranked as one of the top ten US cities for independent filmmakers according to MovieMaker Magazine. Initially conceived in partnership with filmmaker advocate Vikki Mee, Film Action's Women's Film Initiative received start-up support from the Faerie Godmother Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation.