Unlocking Deeptech: how to get more women founding science-based startups
Deeptech startups — those built around breakthrough science or engineering — hold huge promise for Europe’s future. Yet only 10% of deeptech founders are women, according to the EU’s Women in Deep Tech report.
The reasons? Barriers at every stage — from fewer female PhDs spinning out intellectual property to a lack of mentors, role models, and funders who “get” hard science founders.
The good news: Europe’s deeptech ecosystem is waking up to this lost potential.
Why Deeptech needs more women
Deeptech startups are central to Europe’s innovation ambitions. But the gender gap remains stark. Women are underrepresented not just at the founder level, but also in the PhD and research pipelines that typically feed deeptech ventures.
This isn’t just a fairness issue — it’s about unlocking Europe’s full innovation capacity. Every breakthrough idea that doesn’t make it to market because a woman founder lacked support is a missed opportunity for Europe’s competitiveness.
Where to start
Back female researchers early
Many women exit the pipeline long before incorporation. Universities and tech transfer offices can change this by running targeted workshops, offering seed grants, and creating founder-in-residence programs for postdocs.
Build better accelerators
Deeptech ideas don’t fit the classic startup mold. Specialist incubators like Entrepreneur First or Hello Tomorrow can help bridge the lab-to-market gap and provide tailored support.
Educate investors
Some VCs shy away from deeptech because they don’t fully grasp the science. Funds that hire or partner with technical experts are better positioned to evaluate tough ideas and earn founders’ trust.
Spotlight role models
Europe needs visible success stories — from women scaling biotech unicorns to founders who’ve turned breakthrough IP into real products. Showcasing these leaders helps inspire the next generation.
The big picture
If Europe wants to lead in deeptech, it can’t afford to overlook half its talent. Backing more women scientists to become founders means more breakthroughs make it out of the lab — and into the world.
📖 Read the EU’s Women in Deep Tech report
Sources
- EU Commission Women in Deep Tech: EU Women in Deep Tech Report
- Sifted article example: Why Europe Needs More Women in Deeptech
