Junior Venture Capitalist Program
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Junior Venture Capitalist Program
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The Junior Venture Capitalist Program is the flagship high‑school track of Women Founders Network’s “Next Generation Investors” initiative. Each spring, girls in grades 9‑12 from across the United States apply for one of two formats: In‑Person Los Angeles or Online‑Only. Once selected, the cohort embarks on a structured, four‑month curriculum running June through October.
During the summer, participants meet weekly on Zoom to master the fundamentals of early‑stage investing: market sizing, business‑model analysis, unit economics, competitive positioning and term‑sheet basics. Guest speakers—female VCs, founders and Fast Pitch alumnae—join most sessions to share first‑hand lessons and career paths. Fellows gain access to the data rooms and pitch decks of the six finalists in WFN’s annual Fast Pitch competition and practise evaluating them just as a professional investment committee would.
Early fall brings an intensive Pre‑Pitch Workshop in Los Angeles where in‑person fellows (and online fellows who travel) deep‑dive into the finalist companies, draft scorecards and debate investment theses. Throughout September they refine their analyses in small‑group mentor circles led by volunteers from WFN’s community of investors and advisors.
The program culminates at the WFN Fast Pitch event in October. Wearing “Junior VC” badges, participants attend the live showcase, question founders on‑stage and cast binding votes for their top company. Their collective decision unlocks a $5 000 non‑dilutive grant—funded by WFN sponsors—that is awarded that evening.
Beyond technical skills, the program emphasises confidence, public‑speaking and network‑building. Alumnae remain part of a private Slack channel, receive invitations to WFN webinars and often return as peer mentors. By teaching capital‑allocation at a formative age, the Junior VC Program aims to expand the pipeline of women investors and demystify the funding landscape that female founders face.
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Applications open annually 1 April – 31 May. Candidates submit a short form, essay responses and a parent/guardian consent. WFN evaluates enthusiasm for entrepreneurship, willingness to engage for four months and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Cohorts are typically 35–40 students; acceptance letters go out mid‑June.
The program offers no stipend; its value lies in education, mentorship and the unique opportunity to control a real $5 000 grant. Travel and accommodation for L.A. events are participant‑funded unless covered by a need‑based scholarship.
Participation fees help offset curriculum and event costs: $800 for the in‑person track and $100 for the online‑only track. WFN maintains a scholarship fund to ensure that financial need never blocks admission.
Expect 5‑8 hours per week for four months: a 60‑minute live session, prep readings, small‑group discussions and, for in‑person fellows, two full‑day events in L.A. Attendance at all scheduled activities is mandatory for certificate completion.
Online workshops run nationwide via Zoom; optional in‑person components (Pre‑Pitch Workshop and Fast Pitch event) take place in the Greater Los Angeles area.
How long is the program?
Four months, June–October, concluding at WFN’s Fast Pitch.
Is it open to boys?
No. The initiative specifically targets young women to address gender gaps in venture capital.
Do I need previous business experience?
None is required; curiosity and commitment are enough.
What if I don’t live near Los Angeles?
Apply to the Online‑Only track; all core content is delivered virtually.
Are scholarships available?
Yes—need‑based aid can cover part or all of the fee. Indicate interest in the application.
What technology do I need?
A computer with video‑capable internet for Zoom sessions and document access.
Will I invest my own money?
No. WFN supplies the $5 000 grant; students make the allocation decision.
How competitive is admission?
Recent acceptance rates hover around 40%; thoughtful essays improve odds.
Can I add the program to college apps?
Absolutely—graduates receive a certificate and may request recommendation letters.
May I re‑apply if not accepted?
Yes, students can apply again in a subsequent year as long as they remain in grades 9‑12.
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