Women are underrepresented in EU private equity, venture capital and private debt markets. It’s time to change that.

“A clear gender finance gap persists in the European funding ecosystem. Addressing it, and supporting greater diversity is key to creating a more prosperous, innovative, and inclusive business environment. The EIF is proud to be an active part of this transformation.”
Marjut Falkstedt, EIF Chief Executive
Empowering Equity at the EIF
At the European Investment Fund, Empowering Equity represents our commitment to making the European innovation and investment ecosystem more inclusive, representative, and equitable. We believe that diversity isn't just a metric—it's a catalyst for innovation, stronger performance, and sustainable growth.
We embed gender-smart investing criteria into our decision-making to ensure diversity is considered in every investment we support.
Beyond capital, we create pathways for change through mentorship programmes, training academies, and community events that give underrepresented founders and fund managers access to networks, knowledge, and opportunities.
of investments in 2024 directed to financial intermediaries meeting gender-smart criteria
students joining the Empowering Equity Academy in 2024 and 2025
women in management at the EIF in 2024