Call for expression of interest for research Study field: unconscious gender investment bias in early-stage entrepreneurship finance Scope European Union

EIT Food is seeking support from a research / consulting expert, those can be entities (private or public) or individuals to investigate and present the situation of women-led startups or women entrepreneurs in Europe and more specifically challenges they face in access to finance. The experts can propose their own research approach, methodology and database.

We are looking for:

• Unexplored topics producing new findings as opposed to knowledge already proven by research;
• Solid research proposals including objectives, strong methodology and clearly justified;
• Experienced academic team in the field or assimilable areas;
• Novel approaches in terms of methodology, databases used or untapped segments is welcome;
• Research results oriented to deliver useful insights from practitioners in the market, for policy makers and targeting non-academic readers.

Topics might cover any aspects within the spectrum:

• Unconscious bias related to a subset population
• Sources of biases
• Tackling and overcoming assumptions bias
• Impact of bias (at micro or macro level in returns, growth …)
• Differences regarding sectors, technologies ….
• Welcome: results leading to actionable recommendations to fight unconscious bias.