CaixaBank has started a strategic programme named Girls in Finance & Talent (GIFT) to encourage more women to enter the fields of investment banking and financial markets. While women make up 53 per cent of the financial workforce in Spain according to the Women in Banking 2024 report, they remain underrepresented in specialised and senior positions. This new project aims to change that by engaging with students while they are still at university.

The initiative is a long-term commitment lasting up to three years. It combines high-impact training with direct mentorship from women already established in the sector. Students of economics, business administration, physics, law and mathematics are the primary focus. The bank has partnered with five leading universities for the launch: Pompeu Fabra University, Carlos III University, ESADE, ICADE and CUNEF.

The first phase of the programme takes place in Madrid on 6 and 7 March. During these two days, 40 students will visit the bank’s headquarters and markets room. They will meet with senior leaders including David López, the Chief People Officer, and Iñaki Badiola, Head of Corporate & Investment Banking. The second day features a hackathon-style challenge at CaixaFórum. This activity requires teams to solve a realistic banking business case to test their analytical and strategic skills.

Following the challenge, ten winners will be selected for summer internships. This leads to a further six-month paid internship during the next academic year. Eventually, participants can apply for the New Graduate programme once they complete their studies. This structure allows young women to gain professional experience without interrupting their university education.

GIFT is part of the wider Wengage diversity strategy at CaixaBank. The programme focuses on creating a pipeline of talent for Corporate & Investment Banking (CIB) and Finance. By providing early exposure to these business areas, the bank intends to break the cycle of low female participation in high-level financial roles.

The initiative highlights a move towards a more representative banking model. It provides students with a clear path from the classroom to a professional career in the financial markets. Through direct experience and the support of mentors, CaixaBank hopes to establish a permanent connection with the next generation of female professionals.