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Women's Equity Lab (WEL) was founded in late 2017 in Victoria, British Columbia, by 23 founding partners. The organization has grown into a community of over 400 women investors across North America, managing a portfolio of over 50 companies. WEL is dedicated to investing in women-led businesses, directing more than 70% of its investments towards such companies. This focus on gender equity in the startup ecosystem sets WEL apart from traditional venture capital firms.
WEL operates investment groups in various regions, including British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and Silicon Valley. The firm emphasizes the importance of supporting female entrepreneurs and aims to create a more inclusive investment landscape. As of now, WEL continues to expand its reach and influence within the startup community.
Women's Equity Lab invests primarily in early-stage companies, with a strong preference for those that are women-led and based in Canada. The organization is sector-agnostic but emphasizes businesses with strong growth potential and large market opportunities. Investment criteria include having a lead investor, the ability to submit a pitch deck, and some revenue or third-party validation. The average investment size ranges from CAD $30,000 to $50,000, allowing WEL to support a diverse array of startups.
WEL's investment strategy reflects its commitment to promoting gender equity in the startup ecosystem. The firm actively seeks out companies in sectors such as agtech, AI, biotech, healthcare, and fintech. By focusing on women-led businesses, WEL aims to empower female entrepreneurs and create a more balanced investment environment.
Women's Equity Lab has built a diverse portfolio of over 50 companies across various industries. While specific company names and descriptions are not provided, the portfolio spans sectors including agtech, AI, automotive, biotech, healthcare, fintech, and software. This broad investment approach allows WEL to tap into multiple markets and support innovative solutions.
Notable industries represented in WEL's portfolio include:
WEL's commitment to investing in women-led businesses ensures that its portfolio reflects a focus on gender equity and the empowerment of female entrepreneurs.
Stephanie Andrew - Board Member, Advisory Team Member, WEL National Director, WEL Victoria Managing Partner and Co-Founder. Stephanie has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, focusing on supporting women-led businesses.
Sally Morris - Board Member, Advisory Team Member, WEL Toronto Managing Partner and Co-Founder. Sally brings a wealth of knowledge in investment strategies and has a strong commitment to promoting gender equity in the startup ecosystem.
Jane Tucker - Board Member, Advisory Team Member, WEL Toronto Managing Partner and Co-Founder. Jane has a background in finance and entrepreneurship, with a focus on empowering female founders.
Cathy Bennett - Board Member. Cathy has significant experience in business leadership and investment, contributing to WEL's mission of supporting women-led startups.
Mona Minhas - Board Member. Mona is an accomplished investor with a focus on early-stage companies, particularly those led by women.
Ariel Siller - Managing Director. Ariel has a strong background in venture capital and is dedicated to fostering growth in women-led businesses.
To pitch to Women's Equity Lab, founders should submit a pitch deck or executive summary through their website. It is important to include details about the business model, market opportunity, and any traction or validation. WEL prefers to receive pitches that demonstrate a clear understanding of the target market and competitive landscape.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back regarding their submission. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can enhance the likelihood of a successful pitch.
As of March 2023, Women's Equity Lab continues to engage its community of over 400 women investors, actively supporting women-led startups across North America. The organization has established investment groups in various regions, including British Columbia, Ontario, and Silicon Valley, enhancing its outreach and impact.
WEL remains committed to its mission of promoting gender equity in the startup ecosystem, directing over 70% of its investments towards women-led businesses. The firm has successfully built a diverse portfolio of over 50 companies across multiple sectors, including agtech, AI, biotech, healthcare, and fintech.
What are the investment criteria for Women's Equity Lab?
WEL invests in early-stage companies, particularly those that are women-led and based in Canada. Key criteria include having a lead investor, the ability to submit a pitch deck, and some revenue or third-party validation.
How can I apply or pitch to Women's Equity Lab?
Companies interested in pitching to WEL should submit a pitch deck or executive summary through their website. Specific details on the application process can be found there.
What makes Women's Equity Lab different from other venture capital firms?
WEL focuses on investing in women-led businesses, directing over 70% of its investments towards such companies. This commitment to gender equity distinguishes WEL from traditional venture capital firms.
What is the geographic scope of Women's Equity Lab's investments?
WEL primarily invests in companies located in Canada and has established investment groups in various regions across North America, including British Columbia, Ontario, and Silicon Valley.
What is the typical check size for investments made by Women's Equity Lab?
The average investment size ranges from CAD $30,000 to $50,000, allowing WEL to support a variety of early-stage companies.
What kind of support does Women's Equity Lab provide to portfolio companies?
WEL offers not only financial support but also access to a network of experienced women investors who can provide mentorship, guidance, and resources to help portfolio companies succeed.
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