Women in Trade Associations

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, the Trade Association Forum (TAF), in collaboration with the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), is proud to present the fourth annual Women in Trade Associations (WiTA) Powerlist.

This initiative celebrates the remarkable women leading and shaping the UK’s trade association landscape. For 2026, we are excited to introduce a new category – The Female Business Leaders List recognising female-led businesses that are thriving with the support of trade associations.

At the same time, we are launching a sector-wide call for best practice to better understand how trade associations are supporting female-led businesses and female entrepreneurs across the UK. We are asking all trade associations to share their insights by completing a short survey, which will inform a Best Practice Guide and case studies.

This list recognises women working within UK trade associations who:

• Have demonstrated exceptional leadership in their organisation and sector
  
  

• Have delivered measurable impact for their members
  
  

• Inspire, support and champion their peers
  
  

Anyone can nominate. Nominations should include a short statement (up to 500 words) detailing the nominee’s achievements and impact.

The special 2026 category asks associations to recognise female-led member businesses that have:

• Delivered standout growth, innovation, or sectoral impact
  
  

• Engaged meaningfully with their trade association
  
  

• Contributed to inclusive economic growth and best practice
  
  

Nominees must be member businesses of a UK trade association and majority female-owned or led.

This list aims to celebrate the important role that trade associations play in empowering women entrepreneurs and business leaders across sectors.