The State of Women in AI: 2026 Report

Our annual report reveals progress, persistent gaps, and three leverage points for change.

Women now hold 28% of AI research roles globally — up from 22% in 2022. Progress is real. But representation at the senior and founding levels tells a different story: only 14% of AI start-up founders are women, and the gap widens further for women of color.

Key Findings

  • Pipeline entry is improving; retention drops sharply at the senior level
  • Sponsorship — not mentorship — is the single strongest predictor of promotion
  • Geographic disparities are growing: gains are concentrated in North America and Europe

Read the full 48-page report at the link below, or download the executive summary.