To better understand how community-based research approaches can reduce barriers to recruitment and participation, we surveyed diverse interest-holders committed to advancing women’s health and equity through gender-specific and -transformative programmes that tackle iron deficiency and poor nutrition. The purpose of this knowledge mobilisation activity is to report insights on best practices that ensure trial methods actively support women’s equity and agency to participate in research and health programming that benefits them. See bilingual versions, and more information at www.beninwithoutirondeficiency.com