More than 70% of women-owned micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are either financially underserved or unserved, and only 7% of private equity and venture capital is invested in female-led businesses.
This massive gap results from and perpetuates restrictive gender and social norms, as well as discriminatory laws and business practices with far-reaching consequences for individuals and communities, as well as for businesses, economic growth in the region and progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
This outcome document contains a summary of key insights, reflections and calls to action from the Feminist Finance Forum 2023 Forum, with specific recommendations, which will inform the second edition of the Forum in May 2024, and further catalyse regional commitment to promoting a feminist financial system.