Investing in Women: Accelerating Progress in the Tech Sector
This year, as we align with the UN’s International Women’s Day theme, ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’, we turn our attention to the critical role of investment in female entrepreneurs. This theme emphasizes the urgent need for gender equality and highlights the untapped potential that exists in supporting women entrepreneurs and leaders, particularly in the technological and innovative sectors.
The Gender Gap in Tech
Despite significant strides towards inclusivity, the tech industry continues to grapple with a glaring underrepresentation of women. Leadership roles remain disproportionately occupied by men, and women face substantial barriers in accessing venture capital and growth opportunities. The persistent imbalance is not only evident in the startup ecosystem but also permeates broader STEM fields, where women’s contributions are crucial yet often overlooked.
The Call to Action
The ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ initiative calls for collective action to empower women, ensuring they have equal access to funding, resources, and support to thrive in the digital age. This movement aims to create a more diverse, inclusive, and innovative future, recognizing the indispensable role women play in driving technological and societal advancement.
Celebrating Remarkable Women in Tech
In celebration of this theme, we highlight 100 remarkable women in the European startup and venture capital landscape who exemplify innovation, leadership, and progress. Their achievements not only contribute to the growth of the tech sector but also pave the way for future generations of women to succeed and lead.
Trailblazers in Venture Capital
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Agate Freimane: As General Partner of Norrsken VC, Agate is a trailblazer in the VC space, focusing on impact-driven startups. Her journey began in finance in London and New York, leading her to co-found the edtech charity Bright Mentors.
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Alice Albizzati: Founding partner of Revaia, Alice has overseen the financing and structuring of over 35 growth companies. Her firm is dedicated to sustainable growth investment, partnering with mission-driven entrepreneurs.
- Aline Vedder: With a PhD in Neuroaesthetics, Aline is a Principal at LakeStar, where she leverages her expertise in psychology and neuroscience to identify strong leaders and teams for investment.
Innovators in Health and Wellness
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Alice Pelton: As CEO and Co-Founder of The Lowdown, Alice leads the world’s first review platform for contraception, empowering women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
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Angelica Kohlmann: Founder of Bloom Diagnostics, Angelica’s work focuses on enabling individuals to take control of their health through technology, following her background in cancer research and pharmaceuticals.
- Audrey Tsang: CEO of Clue, a femtech leader, Audrey has previously led product teams at major companies like Pinterest and Yelp, helping millions track their menstrual health.
Pioneers in Sustainability and Impact
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Aude Guo: Co-founder of Innovafeed, Aude is reinventing nutrition through a circular agri-food chain that emphasizes sustainability and resilience.
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Mette Lykke: Founder of TooGoodToGo, Mette leads a movement against food waste, partnering with various food businesses to redistribute surplus food effectively.
- Lubomila Jordanova: As the founder and CEO of Plan A, Lubomila is at the forefront of business carbon accounting and decarbonization, advocating for sustainability in the corporate world.
Champions of Diversity and Inclusion
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Nikita Thakrar: Co-Founder & CEO of Included VC, Nikita is pioneering a global fellowship aimed at democratizing access to the venture capital industry for diverse communities.
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Selma Prodanovic: Known as the “Startup-Grande-Dame,” Selma has significantly influenced Europe’s startup ecosystem through her initiatives and advocacy for gender-balanced investing.
- Fariha Shah: An angel and VC partner investor, Fariha is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion within the startup landscape, supporting underrepresented founders.
The Future of Women in Tech
The achievements of these women serve as a testament to the power of investment in female-led initiatives. By amplifying their voices and supporting their endeavors, we can foster a more equitable tech landscape that benefits everyone.
As we continue to celebrate and support women in tech, it is essential to recognize that investing in women is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic advantage that can drive innovation and growth across industries.
To stay updated on Europe’s entrepreneurial stories, tech events, and funding opportunities, consider joining the EU-Startups CLUB. Together, we can create a future where women are not just participants in the tech industry but leaders shaping its trajectory.