.png)
June 10, 2026
A growing community of women professionals across investment promotion agencies (IPAs) now have access to structured mentoring, cross-country peer exchange, and expert-led learning — designed around the realities of their work.
The Women in Investment Promotion programme is now running its inaugural pilot cohort. Developed jointly by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and FDI Center, the programme is the first global mentorship initiative purpose-built for women working in investment promotion and attraction.
Over eight weeks, participants take part in matched one-to-one mentoring with experienced peers from across the IPA community, group sessions led by sector experts, and cohort-based peer exchange. The programme is fully virtual and structured around the practical demands of real IPA work.
The pilot cohort was launched on April 27, 2026 with 19 participants from across 14 countries.
The programme focuses on building practical skills required for successful investment attraction, alongside leadership confidence and the ability to navigate complex institutional environments. Participants gain exposure to different country approaches and a regional peer network — with the opportunity to meet mentors and cohort members in person at the ASEAN Investment Forum in Manila in November 2026.
Core components of the Women in Investment Promotion Mentoring Programme.
A full programme launch and official press release will follow the ASEAN Investment Forum on 8 November 2026, ASEAN's largest annual investment platform, where participants and mentors will have the opportunity to meet in person and continue building their professional networks.
We are now collecting expressions of interest from individuals and agencies for future cohorts. Whether you are looking to join as a mentee or offer your experience as a mentor, complete the form here. The programme is free of charge and open to individuals working in investment promotion agencies or similar organizations only.
If you have any questions, please address them to the programme team below.
Galina Sondergaard
Programme Lead
United Nations ESCAP
Kathryn Rothwell
Marketing and Strategic Business Development Manager
FDI Center
Heather Taylor-Strauss, PhD
Economic Affairs Officer
United Nations ESCAP
Andreas Dressler
Managing Director
FDI Center
