In recent years, the private equity and venture capital industry has taken determined steps to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The Finnish Venture Capital Association, together with the international organization Level20 Finland, has drawn up concrete diversity goals, which the association is now starting to implement.
On Wednesday, August 20th, the Finnish Venture Capital Association and Level20 Finland brought together players in the private equity and venture capital industry for an event that explored how DEI goals – diversity, equity, and inclusion – can be turned from words into action. Participants heard examples of how strategic goals have been put into practice and what concrete actions can be taken to strengthen diversity throughout the industry ecosystem.
During the event, clear and measurable diversity targets were published for the Finnish private equity and venture capital industry, with the aim of ensuring diversity of thought within the sector. Progress towards these targets will be closely monitored, and the first report will be compiled in summer 2026.
“This is a continuation of our association’s long-term DEI work, which has previously included collecting and monitoring diversity figures for the industry and target companies, DEI guidance, events related to the theme, and close cooperation with Level20 Finland. “ says Anne Horttanainen, CEO of the Finnish Venture Capital Association.
Pia Kåll, CEO of CapMan and Chair of Level 20 Finland, emphasizes how the goals can accelerate change in the private equity and venture capital industry and pave the way for better decisions:
“It is important that the goals challenge us to change our own thinking and operating methods – and that this change also extends to our portfolio companies. However, the image of the industry remains narrow, even though in reality expertise can come from many different fields. We need to make the industry more visible and build an image of it as an inspiring and attractive career choice.”
“Attracting and retaining women in the industry requires comprehensive measures, such as active career path development, management commitment, mentoring programs, and flexible working arrangements, especially during the busy years. Level 20 would like to thank the Finnish Venture Capital Association and other actors for their excellent cooperation – we now encourage all actors in the field to work together for change and take concrete action,” says Kia Aejmelaeus, partner at Evli Private Capital and leader of Level 20 Finland’s impact working group.
In the photo (left to right): Riku Asikainen, Chair of the Board of the Finnish Venture Capital Association; Pia Kåll, Capman; Anne Horttanainen, Finnish Venture Capital Association; Casper Herler, Borenius; and Kia Aejmelaeus, Evli Private Capital.
DEI goals of the Finnish Venture Capital Association
The Finnish Venture Capital Association has defined three indicators to measure diversity of thought: gender, educational background, and nationality.
Fund management companies report the following information regarding the above-mentioned indicators:
The following points can improve the achievement of the objectives mentioned above / The following measures support the achievement of the objectives mentioned above:
Additional information:
Pia Kåll, CapMan, CEO
pia.kall@capman.com
+358 40 766 4446
Kia Aejmelaeus, Evli Private Capital, Partner
kia.aejmelaeus@evli.com
+358 40 765 4616
Anne Horttanainen, Finnish Venture Capital Association, Managing Director
anne.horttanainen@paaomasijoittajat.fi
+358 40 510 4907
