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Pathways Forward

A new approach for women in entrepreneurship.

A new approach for women in entrepr-eneurship.

Transforming participation rates for women in entrepreneurship

1 in 5

of Scotland's entrepreneurs are women

2%

of institutional investment goes to women-led companies in Scotland.

About Pathways Forward

Pathways Forward was created in response to extensive public and private sector engagement and momentum generated by the Pathways Report. Our primary objective is to drive positive change through tangible, practical and swift action and to inuence policy through collaborative thought leadership across the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Since our inception in September 2023, we have placed our focus on two points of action: the Pathways Pledge and the Female Founders Growth Summit

We believe that if Scotland can address the report’s findings through positive action, this nation can become a leading force in equitable and sustainable entrepreneurship.

There is no one root cause to the gender imbalance in entrepreneurship. Resolution is complex and nuanced. That being said, the 31 key recommendations outlined in the report reference many of the touch points in an entrepreneur’s journey and offer relevant organisations a starting place.”

Join the Movement. Make a Pledge.

The Pledge is a commitment by an organisation to implement and maintain a defined set of measurable actions, tailored to the local ecosystem, which help to influence and shape a better future for women in entrepreneurship.

1 in 5

of Scotland's entrepreneurs are women

2%

of institutional investment goes to women-led companies in Scotland.

The Pathways Report

In March 2022, Ana Stewart was commissioned by Kate Forbes, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Economy, to chair an independent review into female entrepreneurship in Scotland. The Pathways Report is the culmination of that review. Its recommendations are concerned with dramatically raising the participation level of women in the entrepreneurial economy, thereby increasing Scotland's entrepreneurial capacity and improving its economic performance.