Mainstreaming Gender Lens Investing in the Financial Sector in Guatemala: An Ecosystem Analysis. From Challenges to Best Practices: A Pathway to Equity

In line with Pro Mujer, a preeminent purpose-driven social enterprise and an industry  leader in women’s equality, financial inclusion, impact, and gender lens investing, this project aimed to learn more about the motivations, barriers, challenges, and solutions related to gender sensitive investment and financial inclusion of women in Argentina. Specifically focusing on the  objectives, guidelines, and recommendations established in the Sustainable Finance Protocol of the Banking Industry, the goal of this project was to understand current initiatives being undertaken by the affiliated financial institutions, as well as best practices from leading stakeholders to  provide actionable recommendations to bridge the gap between investors and women  entrepreneurs.  

The Capstone team first conducted an online questionnaire to survey prominent Latin American gender equality organizations, including Pro Mujer, and representatives from financial institutions who are members of the Protocol. To better understand issues of financial inclusion and the financial gap in the country, the team conducted interviews with selected banks and/or chambers and regulators in Argentina. This allowed the team to complement their quantitative and desk research with in-person qualitative data that enriched their analysis. The final outcome of the project was a report outlining the current barriers and challenges, and providing recommendations to further enhance the Sustainable Finance Protocol of the Banking Industry’s commitment to gender-sensitive investment and financial inclusion of women in Argentina.