Nicosia, Cyprus. An EU-backed study has highlighted Cyprus while examining the gender investment gap across Europe, with a focus on deep tech. The report describes deep tech as central to Europe’s long-term competitiveness, security and economic resilience.
Deep tech definition and sectors
According to the study, deep tech refers to companies built on scientific breakthroughs and advanced engineering, often emerging from research laboratories and universities. The report says these include firms working in artificial intelligence, advanced materials, semiconductors, robotics, quantum technologies, climate and energy systems, health and biotech, and industrial technologies.
Capital needs and competitiveness
The report notes that, unlike many consumer-facing digital startups, deep-tech companies typically require long development timelines, specialised talent and significant upfront capital before reaching market. It adds that access to capital in these sectors is not only a question of fairness but also of Europe’s ability to compete globally, since deep tech underpins the green and digital transitions, strengthens industrial leadership and reduces dependence on external technologies in areas such as energy, health and security.
Project goals and data challenges
The study says the project was designed around two complementary goals: identifying and consolidating data to measure the gender investment gap in a consistent and transparent way across Europe, and engaging directly with founders, investors and policymakers to understand why the gap persists and what could help bridge it, particularly in deep tech. It adds that while gender-disaggregated data exist, they are often fragmented, based on different definitions or not publicly comparable, making it difficult for policymakers and investors to assess progress or design targeted interventions.
Dashboard based on Dealroom data
A central output of the project, the report states, is the “Gender Gap in Investments Dashboard”, developed using Dealroom data. The platform brings together information on company founding teams and venture funding outcomes across Europe in a single interface.
What steps would you like policymakers and investors to take to help close the gender investment gap in deep tech?
