In recent years, the pursuit of inclusion has faced significant challenges. For fintech, technology, and financial services, there have been funding cuts and limited resources. This has led to many businesses reducing their people budgets, often at the expense of internal inclusion initiatives. Companies that provided financial support to external organisations have now withdrawn future investments. This is leading to devastating consequences for many women’s networks that previously relied on these funds.
In the UK, Tech Talent Charter, a non-profit dedicated to increasing inclusion in technology, had to shut down. Even Baroness Karren Brady’s Women in Business & Tech in-person event was forced to cancel for 2025. In the U.S., Women Who Code, once a thriving community of over 360,000 members, also closed due to a lack of funding. This follows other women’s networks and spaces like Chief and The Wing, which also shut their doors for good.
These setbacks are alarming. They highlight the urgent need to uphold financial commitments to women’s networks. These inclusion efforts reap benefits for individuals, workplace policies, and businesses. Despite these challenges, leaders are still fighting for the survival of inclusion networks. Many women’s networks worldwide have turned to collaborating and ‘cross-pollinating’. In particular, there has been an initiative that has seen five women’s networks come together to strengthen and support each other. This program began with Women in Alliances, Women of FinTech, Women in Blockchain Talks, Women in Automation, and the European Women Payments Network (EWPN).
Here are 13 women making a difference and why their work is more important than ever.
Nicole Casperson, Founder & CEO of Fintech Is Femme, on the benefits of investing in women:
“Investing your time, money, and resources in women delivers a powerful ROI. Studies show that when women thrive, so do the companies, industries, and communities they touch. The financial returns, the increased creativity, and the deepened sense of purpose all translate into a ripple effect that benefits everyone.”
Rukayyat Modupe Kolawole, Executive Board Member to the European Women Payment Network (EWPN) on financial inclusion:
“I come from Nigeria’s Yoruba culture, where women’s power is long recognized, embodied by the Goddess Aje, the wealth deity. My company, PaceUP Invest reflects this. It harnesses the power of both humans and AI to reduce bias in investing. With organisations like EWPN, we are making a significant impact on underrepresented communities in cards, fintech, and payments through campaigning, educational programs, mentorship, leadership initiatives, and providing a platform for new and unsung voices in fintech.”
Ying Cao, MCC, Co-founder of Work in Fintech, on the importance of safe spaces:
“Women’s networks and communities are not just about professional growth. They’re about creating safe and brave spaces for women to share their stories, challenges, and triumphs. Together, we amplify each other’s voices, unlock opportunities, and challenge societal norms. Collaboration isn’t just a strategy; it’s a necessity to drive meaningful change.”
Gemma Livermore, Founder of Women of FinTech, on how collective action drives change:
“As humans, we are wired for connection. Community is where we find strength, purpose, and belonging. At Women of FinTech, we believe that together, we rise higher, break barriers, and create lasting impact. Alone, change feels impossible, but in community, we prove it’s unstoppable.”
Ellie Duncan, Community Manager of Women in Open Banking, on the impact of mentorship:
“When women feel heard and supported, they are also empowered in their careers. Being Community Manager of Women in Open Banking is an incredible privilege because our members lift one another up through our mentoring scheme. They are willing to share their experiences and stories, which builds a more diverse pool of role models and leaders from different backgrounds, attracting a strong pipeline of talent.”
Carrie White, Co-Chair of Network for Women at Vena Solutions, on the power of partnerships:
“I’ve been a member of various women’s groups over the years, and it is crucial to partner in order to achieve economies of scale. I’ve seen firsthand how the complementary efforts of women’s groups I have been a part of amplify each other when they collaborate. Cross-pollination strengthens every initiative.”
Doreen Marchetti, Senior Advisor Business Partnerships, on enhancing the ecosystem for women for a more equitable and profitable future:
“When women’s groups cross-pollinate and collaborate, we create a powerful ripple effect that amplifies our collective impact. By sharing resources, insights, and opportunities, we not only strengthen our individual missions but also build a unified ecosystem that uplifts and empowers women everywhere. Together, we are stronger, more innovative, and capable of driving transformative change.”
Elise Carbone, of Women in Alliances, on the value of networking:
“Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards. It’s about building authentic connections, fostering collaboration, and creating opportunities for mutual growth. I want to give back by being a connector, helping others build the relationships they need to thrive and fostering an ecosystem of support and success.”
Eelee Lua, of Women in Alliances, on the importance of global connections:
“In a world of rising geopolitical tensions and complex business landscapes, the power of collaboration is paramount. Embracing strategic partnerships across borders and even industries is the key to illuminating success on a global stage.”
Muskan Varshney, Global Lead of Women in Automation, on the potential of AI for gender equality:
“AI is revolutionizing every aspect of life and offers a unique opportunity to create a more equitable world. By pursuing careers in intelligent automation there is a huge opportunity for women in the technology space. Our community harnesses learning and leverages AI career paths to accelerate action for women’s equality in the sector.”
Tina Valand, Co-founder of Women in Alliances, on the responsibility to support others:
“As a technology leader working in Generative AI and fintech, we have a responsibility to support up-skilling early talent and female leaders. Our community events aim to build a legacy of talent.”
Lavinia Osbourne, CEO of Women in Blockchain Talks, on the importance of women’s leadership in the future of work and the emerging tech space:
“As we continue to navigate rapid technological advancements, diverse perspectives and experiences are essential! We already know that women’s leadership brings invaluable contributions to the table, fostering creativity, resilience, and adaptability, which are key ingredients for success in an ever-evolving business and social landscape.”
Zhenya Winter is a leader in the collaboration of Women’s Networks and a champion to all:
“I champion members of my team so that they receive the recognition and career trajectory they deserve. Partnerships have never been more important than today, as companies navigate increasingly competitive landscapes and shift focus to global expansion.”
There may be setbacks. These women are forging forward in the pursuit of better workplaces, communities, and societies for all. Each of their inclusive networks has brought many people together and continues to do so.
Read the full article here
