The Rest Is Money 149. Why Is Tech So Sexist?
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Mar 24, 2025 Martha Lane Fox, a serial entrepreneur and president of the British Chambers of Commerce, dives into the harsh realities of sexism in tech. She highlights the stark funding disparity for women-led businesses, revealing a mere 1.8% of venture capital reaches them. Martha shares her personal journey of overcoming disability, emphasizing how work aided her recovery. The conversation also touches on the urgent need for digital inclusion, especially after the pandemic, and discusses the challenges posed by Brexit on smaller companies in the tech landscape.
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Funding Disparity
- Women excel in business, but systemic barriers hinder their progress, particularly in funding.
- Only 1.8% of venture capital goes to women-led businesses, limiting economic growth potential.
Homogenous VC
- Venture capital's lack of diversity contributes to the funding gap for women-led businesses.
- A homogenous VC landscape leads to risk aversion towards unfamiliar ventures.
Success Constructs
- Societal constructs of success, often aggressive and fast-paced, can discourage women entrepreneurs.
- Silicon Valley's 'break things' mentality doesn't resonate with all, hindering diverse approaches.