Finance is a vast industry with endless opportunities. Building a network of peers and mentors is critical as you unlock your next career step. As the Founder of the Kayo Conference Series, I’ve seen first-hand how the right professional network can open doors and accelerate careers. While I recommend networking with a broad range of diverse individuals in your industry, developing strong relationships with female peers and mentors remains extremely helpful in an industry still dominated by men.
Here are some of the best networks designed to support women in finance:
1. Kayo Conference Series
Kayo connects women in alternative investing and institutional investing through summits, retreats, regional events and virtual events spanning fundraising and dealmaking across private equity, real estate, infrastructure, energy, credit, and more. The focus is on building meaningful business relationships in alternative investments alongside professional development that help women advancement in their careers.
2. Synergist Network
Synergist Network seeks to connect women in the first decade of their investing careers and provide them with the infrastructure, network, and business acumen critical for long-term success.
3. Women’s Association of Venture & Equity (WAVE)
WAVE is dedicated to networking and development for women in private equity and venture capital. Through annual conferences, regional events, and mentorship programs, WAVE builds connections that help women advance in investing careers.
4. Private Equity Women Investor Network (PEWIN)
PEWIN is an exclusive, invitation-only network for senior women in private equity, venture capital, and growth equity. Its mission is to increase the profile of women in investing leadership roles, offering powerful peer connections and visibility at the top levels of finance.
5. Chief
Chief is a private membership network for senior women executives across industries, including finance. With physical clubhouses in major U.S. cities and a strong virtual platform, it’s a space for C-suite women and rising leaders to connect, share, and grow together.
6. Women in Funds
Women in Funds is a community dedicated to empowering women across the private funds space. Through events, networking, and leadership programming, it provides a collaborative environment for women in private equity, venture capital, real estate, and credit to thrive together.
7. Girls Who Invest
Girls Who Invest non-profit dedicated to increasing the number of women in investment management. It provides young women with educational programs, internships, and networking to help them launch their finance careers.
8. Exponent Women
Exponent raises dealmakers to a new power by providing access to an existing ecosystem that delivers meaningful interactions and actionable content. Exponent offers events and memberships.
9. 100 Women in Finance
A global powerhouse with 20,000+ members, 100WF focuses on three pillars: professional leverage, peer engagement, and philanthropy. It’s an invaluable network for women in hedge funds, asset management, and financial services seeking international connections.
10. Ellevate Network
Founded by Wall Street veteran Sallie Krawcheck, Ellevate is a cross-industry women’s network with a strong finance presence. Members gain access to local chapters, virtual events, and peer “squads” that offer both accountability and community.
11. Black Women in Asset Management (BWAM)
BWAM is dedicated to advancing Black women in asset management and investing. The organization provides mentorship, career development programs, and networking events to empower its members to succeed in a competitive industry.
12. Local & Industry-Specific Groups
Beyond global organizations, many regional and credential-based groups are worth joining. CFA Societies often run women-in-finance programs. CAIA (Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association) provides both a rigorous credential and a strong member community, including initiatives to support women in alternatives. Association for Corporate Growth (ACG), Texas Wall Street Women, ILPA (Institutional Limited Partners Association), local associations, university alumni associations and even Chamber of Commerce meetups can also provide high-touch opportunities to connect locally.
Final Thoughts
Professional networks are more than places to swap business cards—they’re ecosystems of mentorship, opportunity, and career transformation. Whether you’re just starting out in finance, exploring new roles or looking to advance to the next level, the right network will give a leg up.
