Breaking the Mold: Women in Venture Capital and Supporting Female Entrepreneurship

Startups and entrepreneurs receive venture funding in return for business equity

Women are now becoming more active in venture capital, closing the equity gap in the sector.

The Current State of Women in Venture Capital

Women make up a modest share of the venture capital business. Just 13% of U.S. venture capital company decision-makers are women, according to PitchBook. 

Some female-led initiatives and support networks are trying to solve these roadblocks and encourage more women to work in venture capital.

Advantages of Women in Venture Capital

Women in venture capital provide varied viewpoints and experiences, which can lead to improved decision-making. 

It also results in more female-led start-ups and inventions, since women are more willing to invest in businesses that share their beliefs and experiences. 

Women in venture capital also act as role models. Encouraging future generations of female entrepreneurs.

Strategies for Supporting Women in Venture Capital

To help women in venture capital, establish diverse and inclusive teams and networks. Capital and mentorship are important too. 

Internships, investing in female-led start-ups, and training programs for women in venture capital help bridge the gap. While advocating for and promoting women-led startups, services, products, and entrepreneurs. 

Success Stories of Women in Venture Capital

Despite being a small part of the venture capital ecosystem, many women have found great success. 

Jenny Lee, GGV Capital’s managing partner, has invested in Airbnb and Xiaomi, among others. 

Cleo Capital founder and managing director Sarah Kunst is a prominent champion for diversity and inclusion in the business and has invested in many female-led startups.

The future of the financial industry requires women’s participation. 

Without them, many worthwhile investments, startups, and innovations wouldn’t get off the ground.

By building diverse and inclusive teams and networks, women led investments give access to finance and mentorship while challenging inaccurate preconceptions and prejudices. 

Together, we can all develop a better, more inclusive venture capital business by breaking the stereotype and offering more opportunities for women.

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John Reighard, Partner & EVP

John Reighard is a Partner at Angel Investors Network, where he leverages his expertise in business development, networking, and investor relations to help entrepreneurs secure funding and scale their businesses. With a passion for connecting people and ideas, John plays a pivotal role in fostering strategic partnerships and guiding business owners toward sustainable success. In addition to his work with Angel Investors Network, he also owns and operates two other small businesses.

 

A Connector and Networking Extraordinaire, Business Coach/Consultant, and Inspirational Speaker, John is deeply committed to helping individuals and businesses achieve meaningful results. His mission is to empower entrepreneurs and leaders to create lasting impact through strategic growth, financial acumen, and powerful relationship-building.

 

John has trained with, been mentored by, and provided consulting services to some of the world’s top thought leaders in personal development and business transformation, including Jack Canfield (America’s #1 Success Coach and Founder of Chicken Soup for the Soul), Stephen Covey, T. Harv Eker, Bob Proctor, Blair Singer, Robert Kiyosaki, Neil Rackham, Marcia Wieder, and Roger (Bud) Seith. These experiences have shaped his ability to guide clients through personal and professional growth, helping them unlock their full potential.

 

Before joining Angel Investors Network, John took a sabbatical in 2002, living with his family in Norway, Portugal, and France—an enriching experience that followed 15 award-winning years in Silicon Valley. During his time in the tech industry, he worked for leading companies such as Lucent Technologies, Exodus Communications, Octel Communications, and Brady Corporation.

Meet Jeff Barnes

Jeff Barnes is a former US Navy Nuclear power plant operator on a Submarine, Navy diver, risk management director, technology enthusiast, business growth expert, advisor and management consultant. Mr. Barnes sits on the boards of startup companies, runs a venture fund, supports non-profits supporting military vets, and spends most of his time helping CEOs and founders of growing companies automate, systemize, and scale to 8 and 9-figure valuations.

 

With over 20 years of technology, systems, operations, and marketing experience, Mr. Barnes has advised over 1,000 companies, invested tens of millions in advertising campaigns, and helped companies generate over $1 billion in investment capital.

 

As the chairman of Angel Investors Network and founder of Digital Evolution Marketing Group, Mr. Barnes has worked with founders, entrepreneurs, and CEOs around the world to accelerate the growth of their businesses and achieve substantial exits. He’s a father, husband, veteran, business owner, advisor, and mentor, and his true passion in life his helping others achieve success, freedom, and autonomy in theirs.