The genesis of Own It started with a simple question from Christy Hiler, owner of Cornett and co-founder of Own It. “When I asked how many female agency owners there are, the answer was unclear,” she said. After discovering that only 200 of 20,000 agencies in North America were female-owned, she knew change was needed.
Now, Own It, also co-founded by Zambezi owner Jean Freeman, tracks 670 female-owned agencies and provides a platform to amplify their stories. “We want to show that women are owning and thriving in this space,” Hiler emphasized.
A new wave of independent agencies is being led by senior-level professionals, including women, creating a more durable and impactful space. To Hiler, ownership—not just leadership—is the ultimate goal. “Ownership gives women the power to truly change the industry landscape and create opportunities for others,” she explained.
Hiler also noted the challenges faced by female agency owners, from navigating legal and accounting systems to growing business value. Networking and education are crucial to overcoming these hurdles, underscoring the role of the community in building success.
Preview of the Own It Summit in Los Angeles
The upcoming Own It Summit on January 30th in Los Angeles is where the conversation leads to action. This annual event brings together female agency owners and aspiring owners for networking, panels, and workshops.
The summit features discussions on:
- Talent management and staffing trends
- Legal and accounting essentials for agency owners
- AI’s role in shaping the future of advertising
- Business development and pitching strategies
- Building and sustaining agency value
Hiler described the summit as “a magical space” where agency owners at all stages—whether just starting, scaling, or preparing to exit—can connect and learn.
“The community celebrates one another and shares knowledge openly,” she added.
Driving Visibility and Value
Visibility and value are closely intertwined for female-owned agencies. Hiler pointed to women making strides in the industry, such as achieving recognition in award circuits like Ad Age’s Small Agency Awards, where 21 female-led agencies were honored last year. “Seeing successful female owners inspires more women to step into ownership,” she said.
The indie agency community is thriving, and Hiler pointed out how women have a growing role to play in its success.
“If you can see her, you can be her.”
Learn more
Doug Zanger is the founder and editor-in-chief of Indie Agency News. He is also the founder of the Creative Bohemian consultancy, lives in the Pacific Northwest and is insufferable about it.
