Women Leading Web3: Bridging the Gender Gap in the Digital Economy

Web3 offers innovation, yet gender disparities in funding and leadership persist.
Education, mentorship, and capital access are key to improving inclusion.

The cryptocurrency and startup sectors are known for innovation and forward-looking ideas, yet gender inequality remains a continuing challenge.

Addressing this imbalance requires structured efforts that go beyond technological development to include active support systems for women.

Leadership Journey and Entry Into Web3

Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget, began her career as a television host covering finance and technology before exploring digital assets in 2014.

Her early interest led her to invest in major cryptocurrencies and become an early backer of BitKeep, now known as Bitget Wallet.

After transitioning from media to entrepreneurship, she co-founded startups in fintech and virtual reality, gaining operational and strategic experience.

She joined Bitget as Managing Director in April 2022 and was appointed CEO in May 2024 after leading growth and expansion efforts.

Her interest in Web3 originated from reading the Bitcoin white paper, which she described as mathematically elegant and structurally transparent.

Web3, built on blockchain infrastructure, aims to create decentralized systems where users maintain greater control over their data.

Unlike Web2 platforms that rely on centralized servers, Web3 distributes information across networks, enabling peer-to-peer transactions and user-managed identities.

Gender Disparities and Inclusion Efforts

Despite Web3’s progressive image, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles and often face limited access to venture funding.

Women-led startups frequently secure less capital than male-led counterparts, creating barriers at early growth stages.

Limited mentorship networks and fewer visible role models can also restrict long-term career development within the sector.

Proposed solutions include expanding educational access through technical programs and public events that encourage broader participation.

Mentorship initiatives aimed at building professional networks and providing safe collaborative spaces are also seen as essential.

Access to capital remains a central issue, with targeted funding initiatives considered critical for fostering sustainable innovation.

Programs such as Blockchain4Her have been introduced to support women through incubation, partnerships, and pitch competitions.

For women entering Web3 or launching ventures, consistent skill development and community engagement are commonly emphasized strategies.

Participants are encouraged to approach the sector with structured plans, incremental progress, and collaborative involvement in professional networks.

Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are volatile and may fluctuate significantly. Individuals should invest only what they can afford to lose and seek independent financial advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.