Is the Funding System Holding Women Entrepreneurs Back?

ABOUT THE EVENT

Only 0.1% of all investments go to startups with a female founder. Why is this? And can we change the current system—or perhaps build a new one? These are some of the questions we’ll explore on April 29.

Traditional funding systems are designed to fuel rapid growth and often require founders to give up equity in exchange for investment. However, research by Professor Helle Neergaard shows that many female founders prioritize retaining control, creating a legacy, and building sustainable ventures over the pursuit of fast growth.

But is the issue that women actively choose to opt out of external investments, or are they being overlooked? Do they avoid applying because they anticipate rejection, or do they consciously reject the investor model because it doesn’t align with their values and vision?

When funding systems fail to accommodate diverse ambitions, they limit the potential of entrepreneurs who think differently. This misalignment calls for a rethink of how we fund entrepreneurship.

Join us on April 29 for an open conversation on what can be done.

THE PANEL

Helle Neergaard, professor of entrepreneurship at Aarhus School of Business and Social Sciences, Aarhus University, presenting her research on women’s entrepreneurship

Ida Cecilie Jensen, founder and CEO of AgroAnt will share her own experience of navigating the funding system

Christina Lundsgaard Ottsen, ph.d. and expert in diversity and inclusion, shedding light on how systemic change can benefit all entrepreneurs.

This event is for:

-Students exploring entrepreneurship but hesitant about traditional paths

-Entrepreneurs seeking alternative ways to grow their ventures

-Allies, professionals, and academics interested in creating a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem

PROGRAM:

15.30-16.00: Check-in and coffee

16.00-16.45: Panel conversation

16.45-17.00: Questions from the audience

PRACTICAL INFO:

Date & Time: April 29 from 15.30-17.00

Location: The Kitchen or via livestream on Zoom – please choose either when registering for the event.