About the Investing in Women Code
A voluntary commitment by UK financial institutions to improve transparency and accountability in supporting women-led businesses and entrepreneurs.
Origins and Purpose
The Investing in Women Code was established to address the persistent gender gap in access to finance across the UK. Research consistently shows that women-led businesses receive a disproportionately small share of investment and lending, despite demonstrating strong performance and growth potential.
By bringing together banks, lenders, and investors under a shared framework of transparency and accountability, the Code aims to drive measurable progress toward gender equality in financial services. Signatories commit to collecting and reporting gender-disaggregated data, enabling evidence-based decision-making and sector-wide benchmarking.
Code Commitments
Who Can Join
Banks and financial institutions providing debt finance to businesses. Lenders typically integrate via API for automated data submission.
Alternative finance providers, crowdfunding platforms, and other organisations offering non-traditional lending products.
Venture capital firms, angel networks, and institutional investors providing equity or growth capital to businesses.
Key Milestones
Code Launch
The Investing in Women Code was officially launched with founding signatories from major UK banks and lenders.
First Annual Report
Publication of the first sector-wide report, revealing significant gender gaps and establishing baseline metrics.
150+ Signatories
The Code reaches a major milestone with over 400 participating organisations.
400+ Signatories
The Code reaches its next major milestone with over 400 participating organisations and measurable improvements in gender equality metrics.
Data led approach
The Code formally launches a central gender repository and online platform to centralise data collection.
Partners and Supporters
The Code is supported by government, industry bodies, and advocacy organisations committed to advancing gender equality in finance.
Download the Full Code Report
Access the complete Code documentation, including methodology, commitments, and annual progress reports.