New guide launched on advancing gender equality in investment promotion for IPAs

FDI Center has launched a practical guide on “Advancing Gender Equality in Investment Promotion” for investment promotion agencies (IPAs).  

IPAs play a critical role in driving economic growth by attracting and facilitating investments into their regions. Numerous studies have demonstrated the links between greater participation of women in the economy and productivity, innovation, and other driver of economic success. By incorporating gender considerations into their strategies and practices, IPAs can help to dismantle structural barriers, create inclusive economic opportunities, promote good business practice and foster equitable growth.  

As key actors in economic development, investment promotion agencies (IPAs) around the world have recognized the significance of integrating gender equality into their activities. Many of these institutions have begun implementing initiatives and policies to further their impact in this regard. However, our discussions and survey of IPAs reveal several challenges that prevent IPAs from fully implementing gender equality measures.  

This report seeks to address these challenges by providing IPAs with practical recommendations for integrating gender equality across all IPA functions, from promoting the location and engaging with potential investors, through to providing aftercare support to existing investors and advocating for more investor-friendly policies.  

27 high-impact recommendations were identified across five IPA functions and two foundational elements based on the combination of their potential impact and ease of implementation. Taken together, they represent a guide that IPAs can follow by selecting the recommendations that best suit their organizational, budgetary, and cultural contexts. These recommendations are supported with practical guidance to implementing them as well as case study examples of IPAs from around the world.  

By implementing these recommendations, IPAs can enhance their contribution to their economies, societies, and the global realization of SDG 5, while setting a powerful example for other organizations in building a more equitable and prosperous global economy.  

The full guide can be read on our website here.  

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