A comprehensive survey conducted by FundCoupon across ten major prop firms in Q1 2026 reveals that women now represent 18% of all active funded accounts — more than double the proportion recorded in 2022. The findings reflect a broader shift in how prop firms market themselves and how trading education is reaching new demographics.
Survey Methodology and Key Findings
The survey gathered self-reported gender data from 4,200 active funded traders across forex firms including FTMO (ftmo.com), Funding Pips, The5ers, and Fxify, as well as futures firms Apex and Topstep. Key findings reveal not just participation rates but performance differences worth noting.
- Female participation in funded accounts: 18% in Q1 2026 vs 8% in Q1 2022
- Female traders show a 23% lower average daily drawdown than male peers
- Women pass evaluation challenges on the first attempt at a rate 11% higher than men
- Average account size chosen by women: $25K–$50K (men skew toward $50K–$100K)
- Top acquisition channels for women: YouTube tutorials, Instagram trading communities, TikTok education
Female traders in this survey passed their evaluations at a higher rate than men and showed better drawdown control — challenging stereotypes about who thrives in prop trading.
How Firms Are Responding
Several prop firms have taken active steps to attract more female traders. Audacity Capital's Women's Day promotion (which offered a significant discount exclusively to female-identifying sign-ups) generated substantial coverage and new accounts in early 2026. FundedNext and The5ers both introduced female-focused trading mentorship programmes in Q1 2026.
Education Channels Driving the Shift
The rise of female-focused trading education accounts on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok has been a significant driver. Creators who combine trading education with lifestyle content have reached large female audiences who previously had no pathway into retail trading. These audiences are converting to prop firm challenges at increasing rates, as evidenced by our survey data.
- Women-focused trading YouTube channels grew 85% in subscriber count in 2025–2026
- Instagram trading communities with majority female audiences grew 120% in the same period
- Prop firms are increasingly partnering with female trading educators for co-branded promotions
- Scholarship programs and discounted first challenges for women are emerging across the industry
Regardless of gender, all traders benefit from finding the best challenge prices. FundCoupon lists verified discount codes for all major forex firms and futures platforms — start with our homepage to compare today's best deals.
FundCoupon Verification Note
Promotions, rules, and checkout terms can change. Verify the current offer and evaluation rules on the official firm website before paying for any challenge.