PORTIA was established in 1997 at the initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry to encourage greater participation and involvement of women in Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) and to act as an umbrella organisation for women's associations and groups.

In 2001, PORTIA became a Company Limited by Guarantee (not for profit) to work in partnership with a wide range of organisations from private, public and third sectors on projects of mutual interest and value.

Our main interests are equality and diversity; recruitment, employment and advancement of women; career development; innovation and capacity building in digital technologies and in all related sectors and areas where positive socio-cultural change is needed.

"...1.3 million jobs are likely to

be created over the next decade

in the UK, over one million of

which are expected to be taken

by women."

(Women & Work Commission 2006)

"I really liked the research and literature that they produced. I think it is really good, very good resource and definitely something that I share with people..."

(Partner organisation participating in the Equalitec Diversity Forum)
© PORTIA 2008