Women in developing countries are 25% less likely to be online than men. 200 million fewer women have access to mobile phones. And a woman is 20% less likely than a man to own a bank account. Women also remain underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, agriculture, and mathematics fields in every region of the world. The worldwide average for women’s representation in these fields is only 30%.

For the tools of science, technology and innovation to accelerate progress, they must be used to advance the social and economic equality and empowerment of everyone. Science and technology play a critical role in spurring innovation and achieving sustainable development. They have the power to create connections, foster learning, increase economic growth, and provide life-saving information. It can also help change social norms and stereotypes, and reduce inequality.

Since many of the issues related to poverty and inequality globally are felt disproportionately by women, we aim to empower girls and women to participate meaningfully in the design, research and development of tools and approaches that will address this fundamental divide. Also, when women play an active role, products and solutions are more equitable and holistic. That’s why we are:

• Generating high quality and more tailored evidence, research and data to better understand women’s needs, problems and opportunities
• Meeting the needs of women consumers of the advancements made possible through science, technology, innovation and partnerships
• Expanding the number of women as producers of science, technology and innovation, whether as researchers, entrepreneurs, academics or business leaders

We need to recognize the ability of men and women across the globe to be solvers of development problems, we are providing platforms that encourage open, inclusive innovation. We are also seeking solutions that reduce gender inequalities and empower women to be full partners, consumers and creators of innovation and technology in the service of improving lives.