Raising the visibility of women working in social finance

Raising the visibility of women working in social finance

What we do

We support our members through peer learning, professional and personal development, our regular meetings, monthly newsletter and online platform, our book club and annual retreat. We advocate for the control of capital for and by a diverse group of women.

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Who we are

Women in Social Finance is a private community that fosters connection, advancement and collaboration between experienced women in the field of social finance.

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Women in social finance Networking Drinks

Our Members

Our membership includes partners, CEOs, investment managers, programme directors, policymakers and consultants across foundations, investment managers, banks, consultancies, non-profits and the public sector.  Key areas of our members’ expertise include impact investing, inclusive finance, sustainable finance, governance, entrepreneurship and leadership. 

Today the group comprises approximately 150 members, mainly based in the UK. Our membership criteria is:

1. Experience and leadership
o Established professionals with ~10 or more years’ experience in finance, investing,philanthropy, entrepreneurship, public policy or related fields who hold senior, strategic or leadership responsibilities.
o Alternatively, professionals with 6+ years’ experience who can demonstrate significantinfluence through leading teams, starting impactful ventures, chairing boards or driving strategy that are relevant to creating change for positive impact may also qualify.

2. Influence over capital
o Individuals who deploy, advise on, structure or steward capital for social and environmental outcomes. This includes fund managers, asset owners, advisers, investment committee members, policymakers shaping capital flows and leaders of enterprises that receive and allocate impact capital.

3. Commitment to impact
o A clear track record and ongoing commitment to directing finance towards positive social and environmental goals.

4. Alignment with WISF’s values
o Commitment to WISF’s mission of amplifying women’s visibility, sharing knowledge and advancing equitable control of capital. This includes a willingness to contribute to the community and uphold a culture of respect for different backgrounds and perspectives.

Expression of Interest
WISF Event May 2022 - 3

Our mission

Women in Social Finance exists to elevate and connect women shaping the future of finance for people and planet. We amplify women’s voices and achievements, build an inclusive community that values diverse paths and experiences, and provide opportunities for learning, mentorship, and leadership. By advancing women’s influence and equitable control of capital, we work together to transform finance into a force for lasting positive social and environmental impact.

Hear from our members

I’ve always found WISF to be a really supportive, connected group that has enabled me to make connections with new industries and new people as I’ve explored different roles.

I think I’m probably on my fourth job now whilst still being in the WISF network and it’s been useful to me in each of those roles. 

I’ve been a member of Women in Social Finance for about 6 years now and for me it’s been incredible. I would describe Women in Social Finance as a sisterhood of like-minded colleagues who care about the same things, who care about impact. We get together, we share ideas, it’s just fantastic.

WISF equips members with new approaches to apply to, and navigate, investment committees. We break down assumptions, provide valuable connections and collectively build members’ capacity.

Speakers Hub

If you are looking for speakers for your events, and would like to make sure that women’s voices are included – look no further! We have a group of talented women who can speak about a wide range of issues, take part in thought-provoking debates and moderate interactive panels. Get in touch with us to discuss your requests.