Gender equality

Can you tackle divisions in society by investing in start-ups that are committed to equal opportunities and inclusion? Wealthy Dutch and Flemish families are giving it a shot.

Legal & General Capital has committed a further $100m to the impact investment advisory firm which provides debt financing for sustainable infrastructure projects in the Global South.

According to the European Woman in VC’s survey, only 9% of assets under management are managed by female fund managers, despite the correlation between gender diversity and superior performance.

Microfinance institution SATYA has secured debt funding from the two European institutions to expand their reach and improve outcomes for millions of low income households in India.

The US backlash against ESG is broadening, moving from mainly focusing on environmental issues to target diversity, equity and inclusion. European investors are being drawn in, writes Christopher Walker.

The Southeast Asia Women’s Economic Empowerment Fund, backed by Danish pension fund Pӕdagogernes Pension, has invested in Teky Alpha JSC to support childhood education in Vietnam.

Launched by Oxfam Novib and Goodwell Investments, the Pepea fund will invest in the sustainable agriculture, energy, clean mobility and logistics, and waste management sectors with a focus on female entrepreneurs.

Impact Investor marks International Women’s Day by talking to female fund managers and entrepreneurs driving impact across sectors, from fashion to biodiversity data.

Borski Fund will use this latest injection of capital to make follow-on and new investments in companies led by female tech entrepreneurs offering products and services for women.

Female and mixed gender-led businesses remain grossly underfunded and largely ignored by mainstream investors, but the tide is beginning to turn.