Movement51

Movement51 emphasizes early-stage investing and entrepreneurship through a feminist lens. The organization primarily focuses on the fintech sector, providing educational programs such as the Financial Feminism Investing Lab, which aims to demystify the investment process for aspiring investors, particularly women and gender-diverse individuals. M51 operates mainly in Canada, fostering inclusivity and community engagement in its programming.

The organization targets pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages of investment, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the investment landscape. Movement51 looks for founders who are committed to addressing financial inequalities and who demonstrate a strong vision for their ventures. The organization encourages collaboration and community support among its participants, enhancing the overall investment experience.

Movement51 does not maintain a traditional investment portfolio, as it is a non-profit educational organization rather than a venture capital fund. However, it has trained over 150 investors who have gone on to make their own angel and early-stage investments. The organization has facilitated the activation of more than $2.3 million in capital through its participants, indicating a significant impact on the funding landscape.

While specific companies are not tracked or disclosed by Movement51, the alumni of its programs have engaged in various investments across the fintech sector. The organization’s reach extends to 48 cities in Canada, showcasing its commitment to fostering a diverse community of investors and entrepreneurs.

Shelley Kuipers - Co-Founder, Board Director. Shelley has a background in entrepreneurship and has been instrumental in establishing Movement51's mission and vision.

Emily Smiley - Executive Director. Emily leads the organization, focusing on program development and community engagement.

Arielle Land - Director of Operations. Arielle oversees the operational aspects of Movement51, ensuring effective program delivery.

Emily McBride - Program Manager. Emily manages the educational programs, including the Financial Feminism Investing Lab.

Courtney Dragani - Chief Growth Officer. Courtney is responsible for growth strategies and partnerships that enhance Movement51's reach.

Iva Kubickova - Community Director. Iva focuses on building and maintaining the community of participants and alumni.

Briannaa Hewtan - Director of Marketing. Briannaa manages the marketing efforts to promote Movement51's programs and initiatives.

Lisa Helfrick - Board Director. Lisa contributes to the strategic direction and governance of Movement51.

To pitch to Movement51, founders should visit the organization's website at movement51.org for application details. The organization prefers pitches that include a clear overview of the business model, market analysis, and the founder's vision for addressing financial disparities.

While Movement51 does not operate as a traditional venture capital fund, it encourages aspiring investors to participate in its educational programs. Founders should expect a response time that aligns with the program schedules and application cycles. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.

Movement51 runs the Financial Feminism Investing Lab, a six-week virtual educational program designed to demystify the investment process for aspiring investors, particularly women and gender-diverse individuals. This program equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed investment decisions.

Additionally, Movement51 offers the Founder's Lab, which prepares entrepreneurs for fundraising and investment opportunities. These programs are open to individuals seeking to enhance their understanding of investing and entrepreneurship.

In March 2023, Movement51 announced the launch of its Financial Feminism Investing Lab, aimed at empowering women and gender-diverse individuals in the investment space. This program is designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the investment landscape effectively.

In January 2023, Movement51 received a grant of $486,350 from Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) to expand its programming across the Prairie provinces. This funding will enhance the organization's ability to reach more participants and promote gender diversity in investing.

Movement51 has been featured in various media outlets, including BetaKit and Calgary Economic Development, highlighting its impact on the investment community and its commitment to addressing financial inequalities.