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Transforming Conversations into Action for Women Entrepreneurs
In Lagos, Nigeria, on March 8, 2025, a pivotal investment forum took place, organized by Spurt! and the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub. This event wasn’t just a typical conference; it gathered over 30 institutions to acknowledge and address the persistent barriers to investment faced by women-led businesses. Aligning with International Women’s Day, the forum sought not only to highlight the problem but also to promote collaboration and actionable solutions. Female investors, entrepreneurs, and ecosystem enablers united with a shared goal: accelerating capital flows into women-led ventures.
A Shift from Statistics to Solutions
During the forum, keynote speaker Amaka Okechukwu Opara, Founding Partner at Weav Capital, emphasized the need for a proactive approach. "We often hear that less than 2% of venture capital funding goes to women-led startups. It's time we move beyond discussing these statistics and design solutions that prioritize investment in women as a critical business strategy," she stated. The event led to the formation of the Women in Investment Working Group, geared towards ensuring measurable progress in women’s access to financial resources.
Building a Strong Coalition for Change
With partnerships established between TechCabal, Glove, and the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, the Women in Investment Working Group aims to leverage data-driven insights to advocate for increased financial access. The coalition signifies a shift towards tangible progress; it’s not just another discussion panel—it's a structured effort aimed at real outcomes. Key initiatives will include sourcing diverse investment pipelines and establishing fair evaluation methodologies.
Why Investing in Women Matters
Women represent 51% of the global population yet receive only 2.8% of venture capital funding, a stark contrast that highlights systemic issues within investment practices. Research shows that when women investors are involved, they are more likely to fund women-led ventures. Studies indicate that increasing the representation of women in venture capital firms not only boosts allocation but also yields higher returns. Therefore, supporting women entrepreneurs is not merely an act of social justice; it’s a smart investment strategy that can drive economic growth.
Empowering the Next Generation of Investors
Programs designed like the Women in Investment Working Group are crucial in creating pathways for future female investors. Initiatives that lower barriers to entry, such as providing seed funding and fostering community experiences, encourage first-time investors to engage actively in capital markets. Steps like these empower women, helping them realize their role in the investment landscape.
Join the Movement for Change
The call to action is clear: if you want to contribute to reshaping the future of women-led businesses, consider joining forces with the Women in Investment Working Group. Together, we can tackle the funding disparities and foster a more equitable investment environment for all entrepreneurs.
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