For European female founders the time has finally come
Female founders in Europe are stepping into the spotlight, but funding remains a major roadblock. In 2023, only 2.8% of venture capital in Europe went to women-led startups, despite a growing number of female entrepreneurs across the continent. Countries like France and Germany show particularly low funding rates, while Sweden offers a glimmer of hope with 15% going to women-led businesses. Although some notable deals, like Sweep’s $100M round, signal progress, the overall picture still shows a big gender gap in startup funding — one that reflects deeper systemic issues.
Efforts are being made to tackle the imbalance. Programs like Fund F and Thousand Faces are actively investing in women-led ventures and training more female angel investors. Thousand Faces, in particular, takes a unique approach by combining mentorship, real-time deal-making, and community-building among women investors. The goal isn’t just more female-led startups — it’s an entire support network of investors, advisors, and allies (including men) who can create lasting change. Initiatives like these recognize that solving the funding gap means going to the source: who controls the capital.
Backing female founders isn’t just a moral issue — it’s smart business. Diverse leadership teams consistently outperform their peers, make better decisions, and align more closely with today’s values-driven consumers. Female-led startups are launching innovations in climate tech, health, and finance, but too often hit a wall due to lack of funding. To unlock this untapped potential, Europe needs bold action — from investors, policymakers, and everyday allies. It’s time to break the cycle, level the playing field, and let female founders thrive.
Source: https://tech.eu/2025/01/22/for-european-female-founders-the-time-is-now/
