IWD 2026: 25 women shaping tech and venture capital as female-founded startups take a greater slice of the pie

As the world marks International Women's Day 2026, the spotlight is on 25 trailblazing women reshaping the tech and venture capital landscapes. Female-founded startups are increasingly claiming a more substantial piece of the industry pie, signaling a shift towards greater gender diversity and inclusion. These leaders are not only innovating but also inspiring a new generation of women to venture into sectors traditionally dominated by men. In 2025, deeptech emerged as the frontrunner in female-founded startup raises, capturing a notable 34% share, a slight uptick from 2024. Within this sector, drug discovery stood out, accounting for 20% of the raises. This growth highlights the critical role women are playing in driving scientific advancements and addressing complex global challenges through technology. The increased investment in female-led deeptech startups underscores a broader industry trend towards recognizing and supporting diverse leadership. The impact of these women extends beyond their individual achievements; they are fostering an ecosystem that values and nurtures female entrepreneurship. As more women break into tech and venture capital, they bring unique perspectives and approaches, enriching the industry as a whole. Their success stories serve as powerful reminders of the potential unlocked when inclusion becomes a priority, paving the way for a more equitable future in technology and beyond.

— Authored by Next24 Live