The Vegan Women Summit polled 160 females in top positions (Photo: Adobe. Don’t use without permission)
30 percent of female founders and CEOs in the plant-based and cell-based food industry have experienced harassment or discrimination, according to a new survey.
The Vegan Women Summit polled 160 women around the world back in July and August. It found half the incidences of harassment came from an investor – while 40 percent of respondents cited a vendor or supplier as the source.
Gender bias
More than one-third of those who reported harassment (35 percent) said they took no action in response.
The survey also found that nearly half of all respondents report experiencing bias in fundraising, with 75 percent stating they have faced gender bias and 47 percent of all respondents of color reporting that they have experienced racial bias.
‘Incredibly disappointing’
“It’s incredibly disappointing to hear that gender and racial bias continue to have such a significant effect on investment in innovation in such a strong emerging market,” said Jennifer Stojkovic, founder of Vegan Women Summit.
“Women entrepreneurs in food tech are dealing with the same obstacles that women leaders, particularly women of color, have faced in Silicon Valley for decades.
“But information is power. While these survey results call attention to the disparities in the food tech industry, the numbers also reveal major opportunities for strategic investment.”
