Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
StageNext Fund is a venture capital fund established to invest in high-growth companies led by women with prior business-building experience. Founded by Amy Millman, Joshua Henderson, and Debra Filtzer, the fund has a strong lineage with Springboard Enterprises, where the founders collaborated for over 20 years. This extensive background equips them with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and the strategies needed for success.
Currently, StageNext Fund operates with a team of nine partners, including three managing partners. The fund has a diverse portfolio comprising over 50 companies, primarily in the technology and healthcare sectors. Although specific quantitative metrics such as fund size and AUM are not disclosed, the fund's focus on women-led ventures positions it uniquely in the market. The headquarters is located in Maryland, United States, and the fund also engages with entrepreneurs across North America and Europe.
StageNext Fund primarily invests in technology and healthcare sectors, targeting companies led by women who possess prior business experience. The fund seeks to provide not only capital but also value-added support to help these growth companies thrive. Investment stages range from Pre-Seed to Series B+, allowing for flexibility in supporting companies at various growth phases.
The fund emphasizes a network-driven approach, leveraging its extensive connections to access preferred deals and provide strategic support to portfolio companies. This includes collaboration with experienced venture partners who contribute to due diligence and ongoing operational support. StageNext Fund's investment thesis centers on empowering women entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the resources and guidance necessary to succeed in competitive markets.
StageNext Fund boasts a diverse portfolio of over 50 companies, featuring notable entrepreneurs and firms associated with leaders from Constant Contact, Minute Clinic, iRobot, Zipcar, EverlyWell, and Canva. While specific company names are not detailed, the fund's portfolio can be tracked through platforms like Parsers.vc and AngelList, which provide insights into the companies they support.
The portfolio reflects a commitment to investing in high-growth ventures that align with the fund's focus on women-led businesses. The fund's strategic partnerships and network connections enhance its ability to identify and support promising startups in the technology and healthcare sectors.
Amy Millman - Managing Partner. Amy is a co-founder of StageNext Fund and has a rich background as the founder of Springboard Enterprises, where she supported numerous women entrepreneurs.
Joshua Henderson - Managing Partner. Joshua is also a co-founder and has served as an advisor at Springboard Enterprises, contributing to the growth of women-led businesses.
Debra Filtzer - Managing Partner. Debra co-founded StageNext Fund and has extensive experience advising women entrepreneurs through her work with Springboard Enterprises.
Nancy Briefs - Venture Partner. Nancy brings a wealth of experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in supporting portfolio companies.
Anna Christensen - Venture Partner. Anna has a strong background in technology investments and contributes to the fund's due diligence efforts.
Debra Danielson - Venture Partner. Debra specializes in operational support for portfolio companies, ensuring they have the resources needed for growth.
Lisa Hersch - Venture Partner. Lisa focuses on strategic partnerships and network development for the fund's portfolio.
Sandra Serkes - Venture Partner. Sandra has a background in healthcare investments and supports companies in that sector.
Susan Yee - Venture Partner. Susan contributes her expertise in technology and operational strategy to the fund's portfolio.
To pitch StageNext Fund, founders should submit their pitch decks through the fund's online submission page at StageNext Fund's submission page. It is important to include comprehensive information about the startup, including the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. The fund values clarity and detail in the pitch.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to receive feedback on their submissions. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
As of March 2026, StageNext Fund has successfully built a portfolio of over 50 companies, focusing on high-growth ventures led by women. The fund continues to engage with notable entrepreneurs and companies, leveraging its strong network for strategic support.
Recent activities include ongoing investments in the technology and healthcare sectors, with a commitment to supporting women-led startups. The fund's collaborative approach with its partners enhances its ability to identify and nurture promising ventures.
What are StageNext Fund's investment criteria?
StageNext Fund invests in high-growth companies led by women with prior business-building experience, primarily in the technology and healthcare sectors. The fund focuses on stages ranging from Pre-Seed to Series B+.
How can I apply or pitch to StageNext Fund?
Founders can submit their pitch decks through the fund's submission page at StageNext Fund's submission page. It is advisable to include detailed information about the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes StageNext Fund different from other venture capital firms?
StageNext Fund is uniquely positioned due to its focus on women entrepreneurs and its strong network stemming from the founders' history with Springboard Enterprises. This background provides access to a proven pipeline of experienced women founders.
What is the geographic scope of StageNext Fund's investments?
The fund primarily invests in companies based in the United States, but it also considers opportunities in Canada and Australia.
What type of support does StageNext Fund provide to its portfolio companies?
StageNext Fund offers strategic capital and value-added support through its network of partners and venture partners. This includes assistance with due diligence, operational guidance, and access to additional resources.
What is the typical check size for investments made by StageNext Fund?
Specific check sizes are not disclosed, but the fund invests across various stages, indicating a flexible approach to funding based on the needs of the portfolio companies.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.