Empowering Equity Academy

A new inclusive initiative providing a bridge for STEM & sustainability students to access the investment arena.

Let’s face the future of finance, together.

In partnership with

The European VC and PE space needs new skillsets in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and sustainability in order to continue investing in tomorrow’s European Champions.

At the same time, diversity and inclusion has a ways to go in the sector, with women holding only 14% top-ranking positions in venture capital firms in Europe, and 35% of lower-ranking positions.

We want to help change the investment landscape.

First of its kind

We are inviting 30 students from across Europe to attend:

Our 3-day specialised online course on how Europe’s private equity markets work

September 2024

Our flagship Ugly Duck event, where they can network with some of the best fund managers in Europe and access further career opportunities October 2024

Partner universities

Thanks to the EIB Institute, we are partnering with the following universities for our Class of 2024

● University of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy, Bulgaria ● Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya ● Sciences Po, France ● University of Crete, Greece ● University of Zagreb, Croatia ● Politecnico di Torino, Italy ● University of Latvia ● University of Science & Technology of Krakow, Poland ● University of Lisbon - Instituto Superior Técnico, Portugal ●Sofia University, Bulgaria ● University of Cyprus ● University of Chemistry & Technology, Czech Republic ● TU Delft, Netherlands ● University of Bucharest, Romania ● Stockholm School of Economics, Sweden ● Economic University in Bratislava, Slovakia.

A sneak peek at our 2024 syllabus


Introduction to venture capital, private equity, private credit and infrastructure investing


Typical fund set up & lifecycles


Investment selection and risk assessment


Key success factors and impact measurement

Investing in tomorrow’s leaders

“The equity investment space is where we can truly turn innovation into tangible results for society at large”

Silvia Manca Head of Competitiveness, Cohesion & Social Impact at the European Investment Fund

"The Academy allows our students to connect with like-minded peers, explore new career horizons and apply technical skills towards innovative sustainable solutions. They thus become part of a vibrant, supportive community!”

Anna Canato Head of Knowledge & Impact Division, EIB Institute

FAQ