Networking for Entrepreneurs

Less than 2% of VC funding goes to women founders. As a female VC, I want to spotlight funds and networks actively backing women entrepreneurs. If you’re a female founder, these are great doors to knock on: 🔹 Female Founders Fund – https://lnkd.in/g-NN8jqf The first VC fund exclusively investing in female-founded startups across tech, commerce, and media. 🔹 BBG Ventures – https://lnkd.in/gjtmBEwz NYC-based early-stage fund investing in companies with at least one female founder. 🔹 Golden Seeds – https://goldenseeds.com A pioneering angel network funding women-led businesses for over 15 years. 🔹 Halogen Ventures – https://halogenvc.com LA-based early-stage VC focused on female-founded consumer technology startups. 🔹 SoGal Ventures – https://sogalventures.com The first female-led, millennial VC firm, backing diverse founders globally. 🔹 Backstage Capital – https://lnkd.in/gNdfgyCU Founded by Arlan Hamilton, investing in underrepresented founders, including women. 🔹 Fearless Fund – https://fearless.fund VC fund investing in women of color at pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages. 🔹 XFactor Ventures – https://xfactor.ventures Seed-stage VC investing in female founders building billion-dollar businesses. 🔹 Portfolia – https://portfolia.co An investing platform designed for women backing female-led startups. 🔹 Mindshift Capital – https://lnkd.in/gfgwnYcD Global VC fund investing in early-stage women-led technology and fintech companies. 🔹 Astia Angels – https://astia.org Global angel investor network supporting high-growth women-led startups. 🔹 Chloe Capital – https://chloecapital.com VC + accelerator investing in women entrepreneurs across the U.S. 🔹 Hannah Grey – https://hannahgrey.com Female-led VC backing early-stage startups redefining work, wellness, and finance. 🔹 HearstLab – https://hearstlab.com Funds and supports women-led, tech-enabled startups with operational resources. 🔹 The Helm – https://thehelm.co An early-stage VC investing exclusively in women-founded companies. 🔹 How Women Invest – https://howwomeninvest.com A network of women executives investing in female-led companies at Seed and Series A. 🔹 Illuminate Ventures – https://illuminate.com Early-stage VC led by Cindy Padnos, investing in B2B/enterprise cloud and women founders. 🔹 Inspired Capital – https://lnkd.in/g7YZbJWj Founded by Alexa von Tobel and Penny Pritzker, backing diverse early-stage founders. #Womenpower 🔹 Cowboy Ventures – https://cowboy.vc Aileen Lee’s seed-stage VC, backing diverse and often women-led startups. 🔹 Revenge Capital – https://revengecapital.com London-based £50M fund focused on overlooked female entrepreneurs. 🔹 Serena Ventures – https://serenaventures.com Founded by Serena Williams, investing in women and minority founders globally. 🔹 Ulu Ventures – https://uluventures.com Data-driven VC, majority of portfolio includes women, immigrants, and minority founders.

The saying “It’s not what you know, but who you know” still holds true for career progression, but for women, building those all-important connections comes with extra hurdles. Research published in the Academy of Management Journal, highlighted by Harvard Business Review, shows that women face greater barriers than men when it comes to forming high-status networks. One striking finding? Women are 40% less likely than men to form strong ties with senior leaders after face-to-face interactions. Traits like assertiveness and confidence—often linked with leadership—are judged through a traditional gendered lens, which means women's and other marginalised genders contributions can be overlooked. So, what’s the solution? Women can leverage third-party introductions, which often carry implicit endorsement and help sidestep these biases. In fact, the research shows women are more likely than men to succeed in building high-status networks through shared contacts. Organisations also need to step up by creating network sponsorship programmes, where leaders don’t just mentor women—they actively advocate for them, opening doors and making introductions that help women advance. It’s time for organisations to rethink how they approach networking. By fostering more inclusive, proactive strategies, we can break down barriers and create a level playing field for women to build the connections that will drive their careers forward. Let’s turn "who you know" into an opportunity for everyone. #Networking #GenderEquity #ThreeBarriers

Many of my female #coaching clients struggle to build and leverage powerful social networks, which can limit their career opportunities. Many women feel uncomfortable "bragging" about their accomplishments, preferring instead to rely on good performance as a primary career strategy. Furthermore, research shows that when they do talk about their accomplishments, doing so has a less positive impact than when men do the same thing. This new research from Carla Rua-Gomez, Gianluca Carnabuci, and Martin C. Goossen shows that women are well served by building high-status networks through shared connections. Women are about one-third more likely than men to form high-status connections via a third-party tie. "Third-party ties serve as bridges, connecting individuals to a high-status network that might otherwise remain out of reach. Such ties help both men and women forge valuable professional connections. But why are third-party ties especially beneficial for women? Because they are not mere connections; they are endorsements, character references, and amplifiers of capability. They carry the implicit approval and trust of the mutual contact. When a respected colleague introduces a woman to a high-status individual, that introduction comes with a subtext of credibility. It signals to the high-status connection that the woman has already been vetted and deemed competent by someone they trust. This endorsement can be a critical factor in gaining access to circles that might otherwise remain closed off due to conscious or unconscious biases." #careerstrategies #women #networking https://lnkd.in/eDBqbQcG

🤝 Networking feels awkward? You’re not alone. If the idea of reaching out to someone for “networking” makes you cringe, you’re not the only one. Many of us associate networking with forced small talk, sales pitches, or feeling like we’re asking for favours. But here’s the truth: Networking doesn’t have to feel transactional. When done right, it’s about building authentic, mutually beneficial connections that can open doors and provide value to both parties. Here’s how to make networking feel natural and effective: 1️⃣ Start with Common Ground When reaching out, mention something you genuinely admire or have in common. This could be their work on a specific project, attending the same school, or even shared connections. 👉 Example: “Hi [Name], I recently read about your work on [specific project], and I found it fascinating! As someone interested in [related topic], I’d love to hear about your approach.” 2️⃣ Shift the Mindset from “Getting” to “Giving” Instead of asking for favours, think about how you can offer value. Sharing helpful insights, articles, or even thoughtful comments on LinkedIn posts can create goodwill and start a genuine conversation. 👉 Example: Commenting on their post: “I really appreciate your take on [topic]. It reminded me of [specific example/experience], and I’m excited to apply this in my own work!” 3️⃣ Ask for Advice, Not Favours People love to share their expertise, and asking for advice shows respect for their knowledge. It’s a low-pressure way to connect while learning something valuable. 👉 Example: “Hi [Name], I’m exploring opportunities in [industry/role], and your career journey is inspiring. Would you be open to a quick chat to share advice on [specific topic]?” 4️⃣ Follow Up with Gratitude Networking doesn’t end after one conversation. Send a thank-you note, share how their advice helped, or engage with their updates online to maintain the connection. 👉 Example: “Thank you for taking the time to chat with me! Your advice on [topic] was so helpful—I’ve already started applying it and am seeing progress. Let’s stay in touch!” 💡 Final Thought: Networking isn’t about collecting connections; it’s about building relationships. Approach each interaction with curiosity, authenticity, and a genuine desire to add value, and you’ll find it feels much less awkward—and a lot more rewarding. How do you make networking feel natural? Let’s share ideas below! 💬👇 #NetworkingTips #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalConnections #JobSearch

𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙣𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙨 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥.   I learned this sitting at a board dinner in Sydney - the only woman among twelve men.   The chairman mentioned they couldn't find female directors.   Days earlier, I had met five board-ready women actively seeking directorships.   This disconnect revealed everything wrong with how we approach professional advancement.   A few truths about real networking:   • Casual connections rarely create opportunities • Random events waste valuable time   • Most networking advice focuses on quantity over quality   𝙋𝙍𝙊𝙓𝙄𝙈𝙄𝙏𝙔 𝙏𝙊 𝙋𝙊𝙒𝙀𝙍 determines advancement more than talent.   Our research shows fewer than 5% of ASX and NASDAQ companies have balanced leadership. This persists because:   The system serves itself, not talent. Generic networking preserves existing hierarchies. Good networkers often make terrible leaders.   Here's what actually works:   𝘽𝙐𝙄𝙇𝘿 𝙎𝙏𝙍𝘼𝙏𝙀𝙂𝙄𝘾 𝙉𝙀𝙏𝙒𝙊𝙍𝙆𝙎 • Start with your end goal • Identify specific decision-makers • Create value before asking favors • Track every promising connection   𝙁𝙊𝘾𝙐𝙎 𝙊𝙉 𝘾𝙊𝙉𝙑𝙀𝙍𝙎𝙄𝙊𝙉 • One champion outweighs 100 contacts • Quality of connections beats quantity • Measure results, not activity   𝙇𝙀𝙑𝙀𝙍𝘼𝙂𝙀 𝙉𝙀𝙏𝙒𝙊𝙍𝙆 𝙀𝙁𝙁𝙀𝘾𝙏𝙎 • Help others reach their goals • Build reputation through results • Create new pathways to leadership   At Ellect, we tested this framework:   Results after 5 events: - 3 women secured board interviews - 2 received executive offers - 90% made advancement-focused connections   𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙣𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙢𝙚𝙚𝙩. 𝙎𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙘 𝙣𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙙𝙤𝙤𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙣.   The difference drives everything.   https://lnkd.in/etjAFXks

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or likes—it’s about building authentic, mutually beneficial relationships. In a recent Intentional Conversations episode, I was joined by guest co-host Gisele Marcus, a global executive and accomplished speaker, to unpack the art of networking. From her story of landing 11 job opportunities through authentic connections to strategies for LinkedIn and beyond, Gisele reminded us that true networking is about visibility, trust, and reciprocity. We explored: ✨ Why authenticity matters more than transactions ✨ Strategies for networking as an introvert (yes, it’s possible!) ✨ How to make both in-person and digital networking meaningful ✨ The role of intentionality in creating lasting professional relationships The bottom line: when we network with authenticity, we don’t just open doors—we build bridges that carry us further than we could go alone. 🔗 Read the full recap in my newsletter, watch the replay or catch the podcast episode. #Networking #Leadership #Authenticity #IntentionalConversations #BusinessGrowth

Networking Nirvana: Why Random Acts of Connection Beat Business Card Battles The most meaningful professional connections in my career haven't come from traditional networking events or cold LinkedIn messages. They've emerged from genuinely caring about others' success and practicing what I call 'reciprocity without expectation.' This reminded me of a powerful truth: networking isn't about collecting business cards or growing your LinkedIn connections. It's about creating an ecosystem of mutual support where everyone rises together. Some of my best professional relationships started in unexpected places – while volunteering at a local food bank, during a delayed flight conversation, or through shared interests completely unrelated to business. These connections feel more authentic because they're built on shared experiences rather than immediate professional gain. The key? Stop thinking about networking as transactional. Instead, focus on: 🖤Creating value for others without keeping score 🤍Sharing knowledge and resources freely 🤍Connecting people who could benefit from knowing each other 🖤Building relationships before you need them True reciprocity isn't about immediate returns, it's about contributing to a community where support flows naturally in all directions. What's the most unexpected way you've made a meaningful professional connection? #ProfessionalDevelopment #Networking #CareerGrowth #CommunityBuilding #TheLuxpreneur

You have fought hard to get where you are, but what’s the point if you don’t reach back and help the next woman up?    Here’s how we make real moves:    1. Normalize the Referral  When a position opens up, don’t just think of who’s “qualified” based on the usual standards. Think of who’s deserving but overlooked. Pass their name along. Speak about their qualifications in rooms they don’t have access to yet. Sponsorship > Mentorship.    2. Make the Introduction  A warm intro can be life-changing. If you know someone who can help another woman get ahead whether it’s a recruiter, a hiring manager, or a decision-maker—connect them. No gatekeeping.    3. Advocate in Meetings  When another woman’s ideas are overlooked or dismissed, circle back and reinforce them. If she’s not in the room, bring her name up. Be the voice that makes sure she’s heard even when she’s not present.    4. Share the Playbook  Share salary ranges, negotiation strategies, corporate politics, and the unspoken rules. Knowledge is power—let’s not hoard it.    5. Make Space for Authenticity  Women are often expected to shrink themselves to fit into corporate culture. Let’s encourage each other to bring our full selves to work. No more dimming our light or code-switching for survival. You belong exactly as you are.    6. Support Female-Owned Businesses  From corporate gifting to vendor partnerships, champion women-led businesses. Advocate for them to be included in supply chains, contracts, and procurement opportunities. Economic empowerment is a game-changer.    7. Mentor with Action, Not Just Words  Advice is great, but real mentorship includes action. Help with résumé reviews, mock interviews, and strategic career moves. Sometimes, we don’t need another pep talk we need a co-sign.  Do more than celebrate.  Execute.     The doors we walk through should never close behind us.     We are the blueprint, and we are the change.     #WomensHistoryMonth #WomenInCorporate #SponsorshipOverMentorship #LiftAsYouClimb #NoGatekeeping #WomensLeadership #WomenInBusiness #ThePathRedefined

Recently,, a client shared with our community... “Attachment creates this neediness. Learning to network without a hard agenda shifted everything for me.” So, let’s talk about networking, because so many of you are doing it wrong. Here’s the deal: When you’re an entrepreneur, networking isn’t just about swapping business cards or chasing leads. It’s about building real relationships that add value to both sides. But here’s the irony: The more attached you are to getting something from a conversation, the less effective you’ll be. People can feel the desperation. That “hard agenda” vibe? It repels the very opportunities you’re hoping to create. 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝗠𝗲 𝗛𝗶𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘀: • 85% of jobs and opportunities come from networking, yet only 25% of professionals actually approach it strategically (Source: LinkedIn). • For 72% of successful entrepreneurs, authentic connections are the #1 factor driving their success (Source: Entrepreneur Magazine). If you’re not networking with intention and authenticity, here’s what you’re risking: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗸𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗮𝘆 • Strained Relationships: People can smell a self-serving agenda a mile away, and it damages trust. • Missed Opportunities: When you focus only on short-term results, you miss the long-term value of genuine connections. • Networking Fatigue: Constantly chasing outcomes instead of building relationships will burn you out. 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗣𝗿𝗼 1) Focus on Connection, Not Outcomes: Approach conversations with curiosity. Ask about their journey, challenges, and goals—not what they can do for you. Example: “What’s been the most exciting project you’ve worked on lately?” 2) Give Before You Ask: Share value first. Introduce them to someone in your network, send them a relevant article, or offer insight. The fastest way to build trust is to help someone without expecting anything in return. 3) Set a Networking Goal: Forget about making 10 shallow connections at a conference. Instead, aim for 2–3 meaningful ones per month—the kind where you’re both excited to stay in touch. 4) Follow Up Thoughtfully: After you meet someone, send a personalized note. Share a resource or insight that’s relevant to them. Relationships are built in the follow-ups, not the first handshake. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗼𝗺 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗲 Networking isn’t about collecting contacts or closing deals—it’s about building relationships that compound over time. The more you give without expecting, the more opportunities will naturally come your way. 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹? Download the Networking Playbook to learn how to map your connections, build authentic relationships, and create opportunities that last. Comment "PLAYBOOK" below or DM me and I'll get it sent your way.

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or sending generic LinkedIn messages—it’s about building real, meaningful connections. But let’s be honest: it can feel awkward, especially when you don’t know where to start. Here’s how I’ve learned to make networking both effective and authentic - Provide some sort of value. When reaching out to someone, think about how you can bring value to them. Instead of asking, “Can I pick your brain?” try something like: - “I really enjoyed your recent post about [topic]—it gave me new insights.” - “I noticed you’ve worked on [project/field]. Here’s a resource I found helpful—thought you might too!” Starting with value makes the interaction about collaboration, not extraction. Networking doesn’t end with the first meeting. After connecting, follow up with a personalized message: “It was great chatting about [topic]. I came across this article that aligns with what we discussed—thought you’d find it interesting!” Consistency and genuine interest are what transform connections into relationships. Networking is a skill, not a transaction. It’s about showing up authentically, giving more than you take, and staying connected.