ANSR Women in Tech Report 2025: Progress in Diversity, AI Adoption, and Persistent Challenges

Significant Progress in Workplace Diversity and AI Adoption

The ANSR Women in Tech Report 2025, in collaboration with Talent500, has unveiled substantial improvements in workplace diversity initiatives and AI adoption among women in the technology sector. The report, based on insights from 3,000 women across IT/ITES, Global Capability Centers (GCCs), startups, and product companies, highlights a marked shift in perceptions of company diversity efforts 1 2.

The number of women viewing their company's diversity initiatives as symbolic or slow-moving has decreased dramatically from 70% in 2024 to 40% in 2025. This change indicates a significant improvement in the effectiveness and perception of diversity programs within tech organizations 1.

Surge in AI Confidence Among Women in Tech

One of the most notable findings of the report is the substantial increase in women's confidence in using AI. Approximately 66% of women now feel equipped to utilize AI in their roles, a significant jump from less than 40% in the previous year 1 2. This surge in AI adoption and confidence underscores the growing importance of AI skills in the tech industry and women's readiness to embrace these technologies.

Persistent Challenges: Pay Gaps and Career Advancement

Despite the positive trends in diversity initiatives and AI adoption, the report reveals persistent challenges facing women in the tech industry. The number of women reporting unfair pay has increased by 10%, indicating that pay disparity remains a significant issue 1. Additionally, 7 out of 10 women feel that career advancement opportunities are still out of reach, highlighting the ongoing struggle for equal opportunities in career growth 2.

The Mentorship Crisis

The report identifies a growing need for structured mentorship and leadership development programs. A staggering 58% of women report a lack of strong mentorship, a significant increase from 35% in the previous year 1 2. This gap in leadership support is particularly evident in Global Capability Centers (GCCs), where organizations are increasingly focused on developing leaders capable of managing diverse, global teams.

Workplace Safety and Inclusion

On a positive note, nearly 75% of respondents report that their workplace provides a safe and inclusive environment 1 2. This finding suggests that while challenges persist, many tech companies are making strides in creating supportive work environments for women.

The Path Forward: Embedding Diversity in Organizational DNA

Smitha Hemmigae, Head of Marketing at ANSR, emphasizes the need for a more holistic approach to diversity: "Diversity should not be a metric but a horizontal priority embedded across an organization's DNA. True progress happens when inclusivity extends beyond hiring -- into policies, leadership development, boardroom discussions, and governance" 1 2.

The report underscores the importance of integrating diversity into all aspects of business operations, rather than treating it as a separate initiative. As the demand for leadership talent grows, it is crucial for companies to invest in training programs that empower women with skills to navigate cross-cultural challenges, drive innovation, and make strategic decisions 1 2.

Conclusion

The ANSR Women in Tech Report 2025 paints a picture of progress mixed with persistent challenges. While significant strides have been made in diversity initiatives and AI adoption, issues such as pay gaps, career advancement barriers, and lack of mentorship continue to hinder women's progress in the tech industry. The findings serve as a call to action for organizations to embed diversity and inclusion into their core operations and invest in comprehensive leadership development programs for women in technology.