The UK government has launched a new initiative, the **Women in Tech** Taskforce, aiming to significantly boost gender diversity in the technology sector. This launch on December 15, 2025, underscores a critical issue: the substantial number of women leaving the tech industry, which costs the UK economy billions annually, with estimates suggesting losses of £2 to £3.5 billion per year due to the lack of **women in technology**. Addressing the significant underrepresentation of **women in tech** is paramount for the future growth of the sector.
Addressing the Gender Diversity Gap for Women in Tech
The technology sector grapples with a pronounced gender imbalance. Women constitute only about 21% to 28% of the tech workforce, a figure far from equitable representation. Progress in closing this gap for **women in tech** has been alarmingly slow, with experts projecting it could take 283 years to achieve equality at the current pace. Furthermore, ethnic diversity also faces considerable challenges, with representation for **women in technology** dropping significantly at senior levels.
The Economic Impact of Women Leaving the Tech Industry
The UK tech industry is losing invaluable talent, with approximately 60,000 women departing the sector each year. This exodus creates a substantial economic drain, largely attributable to systemic failures within the industry rather than primarily childcare needs, highlighting a critical need to retain **women in tech**. The loss of these skilled professionals impacts the **uk tech economy** significantly.
Barriers to Career Progression for Women in Tech
Women report facing several key barriers that impede their **career progression barriers**. Lack of advancement opportunities is a major factor, affecting 25% of those leaving the sector. Inadequate recognition impacts 17%, and pay inequity plays a role for 15%. Many experienced **women in tech** face prolonged waits for promotions, some exceeding three years. Consequently, senior roles are held by a disproportionately smaller percentage of women, showcasing the **career progression barriers** that **women in tech** consistently encounter.
Funding Challenges for Female Founders and Women in Tech
Female entrepreneurs also encounter significant funding disparities. Startups founded by women receive considerably less investment, with all-female teams securing a small fraction of venture capital. One report indicates they receive 5.9 times less funding, despite often delivering higher returns. This gap represents missed economic potential and a significant hurdle for **women in tech**, impacting **female tech founders** and the broader **uk tech economy**.
The Women in Tech Taskforce: A New Hope for Women in Technology
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall is spearheading the new **Women in Tech** Taskforce, uniting industry leaders and experts. Key founding members include Dr. Anne-Marie Imafidon, CEO of STEMETTES, and leaders from BT Group and Revolut. The taskforce’s mission is to identify and dismantle obstacles that affect education, training, and **career progression barriers** for **women in tech**.
Broader Government Strategy for Women in Technology
This taskforce operates within a wider government strategy that includes initiatives like the £187 million TechFirst skills program. TechFirst aims to enhance AI and digital skills for millions, incorporating programs such as TechYouth and TechGrad to support pupils, students, and researchers. The government also actively promotes **stem education girls** initiatives to encourage more young women into technology, a crucial step for the long-term success of **women in technology**.
Building an Inclusive Future for Women in Tech
Unlocking the full talent pool is essential for driving innovation and economic growth. The UK’s ambition to significantly expand its AI workforce hinges on addressing the gender gap. The **Women in Tech** Taskforce will provide policy advice and foster collaboration, signaling a firm commitment to building a technology sector that is truly inclusive for everyone. The taskforce’s first meeting on December 15, 2025, marks a crucial step for the future of the **uk tech economy** and **women in technology**. It is vital to overcome the **tech industry barriers** to ensure more **women in tech** can thrive.
