Over the past decade, gender lens investing (GLI) has evolved from a niche concept into an increasingly established approach across the investment landscape, engaging both impact-focused and mainstream investors.

Dedicated funds have emerged, the 2X Criteria have provided a common framework, and development finance institutions, foundations, and private investors increasingly recognise women as entrepreneurs, employees, suppliers and consumers — while the field has progressively expanded its focus towards the quality and depth of gender impact.‍

Since its launch at the 2018 G7 Summit, the 2X Challenge has become a flagship of the global effort to mobilise capital for women’s economic empowerment. But as gender-lens investing (GLI) matures, there is also growing demand to understand: what is the actual business value of 2X qualification for investees?

Is it simply a signal of intent? Or does 2X qualification itself, translate into tangible commercial advantage? A new study by 2X Global, in partnership with Kore Global, set out to answer exactly that.