«Gender strategies in investing: how do European investment firms move from awareness to action?»

Gender diversity and inclusion have steadily gained traction over the past decade as an area of investor concern and interest. This surge can be seen both in the rise of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investments, where the merits of enhanced diversity and inclusion are well-evidenced, and in impact investing. Allied with these trends, gender lens investing (GLI) has consolidated as both a strategy and a field, defined by an explicit and intentional framing of how gender-based factors are included and evaluated across the investment process.

Our latest report, delves into the gender journey of seven private market investment firms in Europe, including AlbionVC, AlphaMundi Group Ltd, EQT, Global Social Impact Investments, NESsT, We Are Jane and others. Following a rigorous qualitative case study approach, we take a behind-the-scenes look at the motivations, challenges, and triumphs of integrating gender considerations into investment practices. This analysis illuminates the diverse pathways taken by these firms, offering invaluable insights into the multifaceted landscape of GLI adoption and its potential to drive systemic change.

During the event, ECSI will present key insights from the report and discuss it with a panel of representatives from the investment firms that participated in the study. Together, we'll explore actionable strategies to overcome barriers, amplify impact, and propel the momentum of gender lens investing toward a more inclusive and equitable future.

Be part of the conversation!

• Welcome
  Lisa Hehenberger, Director at Esade Center for Social Impact
• Presentation of key findings from the study 
  Leonora Buckland, Researcher at Esade Center for Social Impact
• Discussion of governance of impact with a panel of investment firms participating in the study 
  Jen Braswell, Head of Impact for Private Capital at EQT Group and Founding Director, 2X Global
  María Cruz-Conde, Head of Impact Analysis and Measurement, Global Social Impact Investments and Board Member at Open Value Foundation
  Ed Lascelles, Partner at AlbionVC