When it comes to the traditional bulge-bracket broker dealers, the struggles of women in the workplace--and more specifically in the executive suites--has been a big issue for years.

While there are many success stories, there's also no reason to think that the glass ceiling has magically disappeared. Gender is still a huge issue, despite the fact that the top companies have moved to address the situation with efforts that we assume are sincere. But what about the alternative investments industry? Can women get a fairer shake at hedge funds, private equity funds and venture capital funds?

A recent survey by Rothstein Kass suggests reason for much optimism. Nearly 65 percent of the survey respondents voiced confidence that there will be attractive investment opportunities, and "slightly more than half of respondents indicated that they plan to launch a new investment fund within the next 18 months." More than half! That's surprising, and most welcome. But the road will not necessarily be easy.

"Slightly more than 40 percent of respondents believe capital-raising is more difficult for women-run funds because women often lack the investment track record their male peers have. About a third of respondents believe that women's capital-raising efforts are hindered by the stereotype that women are more committed to family and personal responsibilities than their career. Slightly over 30 percent believe it is harder for women to raise capital because they have less access to investor networks." Still the entrepreneurial energy is impressive.

For more:
- here's the survey

Related articles:
Former Xerox CEO: "Blacklist" boards without women   
Sallie Krawcheck on Wall Street women