Shifting the Paradigm for Women

Women entrepreneurs continue to be underrepresented in the business world globally. Only 2% of venture capital goes to female-owned businesses. The fact that 98% of venture capital ignores female entrepreneurs highlights the pressing need for greater support and opportunities for founders coming from different backgrounds and perspectives to thrive.?

Women possess a remarkable power to learn, grow, and lead with impact, making them formidable business owners capable of driving meaningful change in the world. With vision, determination, and resilience, women entrepreneurs have the opportunity to not only build successful enterprises but also to shape a brighter future for their communities and beyond.?

Empowering women business leaders demands a unified effort, with investors and women entrepreneurs joining forces. It's only through collaboration that we can pave a prosperous path forward for women-owned businesses to thrive.

How Investors Can Help Women-Owned Businesses Better the World

As an entrepreneur who navigated the complexities of the business world to grow Under Canvas into a venture valued at over $100 million, and now as a venture capitalist myself, I understand deeply the pivotal role investors play in empowering women-owned businesses. Here’s how you can contribute:

• Invest in Women-Led Ventures: Dedicate a significant portion of your investment portfolio to women-led ventures who are looking to solve big problems. Your financial backing does more than fuel the growth of these enterprises; it acts as a critical lever in bridging the entrepreneurship gender divide and causing a ripple effect. It's not merely a contribution; it's a statement, a commitment to reshaping the landscape of entrepreneurship and our world.
• Contribute to a Strong Support Network for Women in Business: Offer your expertise and connections to women entrepreneurs. Mentorship programs and networking events can be invaluable resources for entrepreneurs to access guidance, expand their networks, and gain valuable insights into navigating the business landscape.
• Encourage Financial Literacy and Confidence: One of the most empowering actions investors can take is to educate and build financial confidence in women entrepreneurs. Investors can play a crucial role by demystifying financial concepts and encouraging a proactive approach to financial management. Sharing knowledge and resources on financial literacy can empower women to make informed decisions, negotiate better, and ultimately build more sustainable and scalable businesses.

How Female Entrepreneurs Can Achieve Their Own Success

However, the responsibility doesn't solely rest on investors' shoulders. Reflecting on my own path to success, I’ve realized the importance of not only external support but also the internal drive and strategies women entrepreneurs must cultivate.

The journey from Under Canvas's humble beginnings to becoming a multi-million-dollar venture taught me the importance of transcending a scarcity mindset. Early on, I grappled with the notion that there might not be enough room for my ambitions in a market seemingly dominated by giants. However, true transformation began when I dared to envision a future that was not confined by current realities but was instead defined by the boundless potential of what could be. To my fellow women entrepreneurs, I urge you to challenge the limitations you've internalized. Thinking bigger is not just about scaling your business; it's about reshaping the narrative around what women can achieve in entrepreneurship.

So, what are some shifts you can do to think bigger?

• Shift from Incremental to Audacious Goals: Set bold, ambitious goals that stretch your imagination.
• Shift from Doubt to Visualization: Regularly visualize success to cultivate an abundance mindset.
• Shift from Isolation to Community: Surround yourself with big thinkers to expand your vision.
• Shift from Envy to Celebration: Celebrate the success of fellow women entrepreneurs as a testament to collective potential.

As entrepreneurs, we have the power to harness our talents and drive positive transformation, one business decision at a time.? As investors, we can foster the growth of women-owned businesses by providing funding, mentorship, and opportunities, catalyzing positive change in the entrepreneurial landscape, one investment at a time.?

By collaborating hand in hand, we can create a supportive ecosystem where female founders are empowered. Together, we can break down barriers and pave the way for women-owned businesses to thrive, leaving an indelible mark on the world.