Venture Capital (VC) is an exhilarating and pivotal field within the financial landscape, providing essential funding to innovative startups and driving growth in cutting-edge industries. However, diving into the world of venture capital can seem daunting for many. As the founder of She Angel Investors, I've navigated these waters and know the importance of empowering oneself with knowledge and connections in this space. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to immerse yourself in the VC world, whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, investor, or simply curious.
We are developing a venture course specifically for universities that will be out this Fall in conjunction with our film Show Her The Money.
Venture capital is a dynamic and challenging field, but it is also immensely rewarding. By taking proactive steps to educate yourself through courses, films like "Show Her the Money," and engaging with the VC community, you can build a solid foundation of knowledge and connections. Remember, the journey into venture capital is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay curious, be persistent, and keep learning.
Of course, you must be an accredited investor to invest in venture capital- meaning you earn over 200k per year or have assets over one million dollars outside of your home ownership.
The venture landscape needs more investors who are women, BiPoc, and LGBTQ for those sectors to receive more monies- because as I mention in my Ted Talk “Fund Women- Save The World” - people do tend to invest in people they identify with. So it’s important to have these sectors sitting at the decision-making table deciding who gets the funding.
With women coming into trillions of dollars in the coming decade- this shift of where the venture monies go can change- but only if we get into the arena and participate in it.
As we strive to create a more inclusive and diverse venture capital landscape, let's empower each other with knowledge and opportunities. The future of VC is bright, and by equipping ourselves with the right tools and information, we can all play a part in shaping it.
Catherine Gray
Producer- Show Her The Money
CEO She Angel Investors, Host of Podcast Invest in Her, Keynote Speaker
www.ShowHerTheMoneyMovie.com
Watch my Ted talk here!
https://youtu.be/Ms-tROEeLn4
Enroll in Specialized Courses
Education is the foundation of understanding any field, and venture capital is no exception. Many prestigious institutions and online platforms offer courses tailored to all levels of expertise. From understanding the basics of VC to advanced investment strategies, there's a course for everyone. Look for programs that cover topics such as fund management, deal structuring, and exit strategies. Engaging in these courses not only provides you with essential knowledge but also demonstrates your commitment to understanding the industry.We are developing a venture course specifically for universities that will be out this Fall in conjunction with our film Show Her The Money.
Watch “Show Her the Money"
As a champion for women in venture capital, I cannot stress enough the importance of "Show Her the Money," a groundbreaking film that sheds light on the gender disparities in venture funding. This documentary is not just a film; it's an educational tool that brings to the forefront the challenges and successes of women seeking venture capital. It's a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the nuances of VC from a female perspective and learn how to navigate and change the industry's landscape.Join VC-Focused Groups and Networks
One of the most effective ways to learn about venture capital is to immerse yourself in communities of like-minded individuals. There are numerous groups and networks dedicated to VC, ranging from formal associations to casual meetups. These communities offer invaluable resources, including mentorship, networking opportunities, and insights into current market trends. Engaging with these groups allows you to learn from experienced investors and entrepreneurs, share knowledge, and potentially find partners or investment opportunities.Pursue Industry Certifications
For those looking to deepen their expertise or carve out a career in venture capital, pursuing industry certifications can be a significant step. Certifications in financial analysis, investment management, or even specific VC programs can bolster your credentials and enhance your understanding of the field. These certifications often involve rigorous study and exams, offering a structured way to gain comprehensive knowledge and recognition in the VC community.Leverage Online Resources and Etcetera
The internet is a treasure trove of information, and there are countless resources available for those interested in venture capital. From online forums and blogs to podcasts and webinars, the learning opportunities are endless. Follow leading venture capitalists and industry experts on social media to gain insights into their thought processes and decisions. Participate in webinars and virtual conferences to stay updated on trends and hear directly from those actively shaping the industry.Venture capital is a dynamic and challenging field, but it is also immensely rewarding. By taking proactive steps to educate yourself through courses, films like "Show Her the Money," and engaging with the VC community, you can build a solid foundation of knowledge and connections. Remember, the journey into venture capital is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay curious, be persistent, and keep learning.
Watching the “Show Her the Money” Movie
Watching Show her the Money Movieis a great start to demystify what venture capital is and how to get started. Pocket Sun - co-founder of SoGal Ventures - mentions in the film that venture funds are much like a mutual fund. Similar to mutual funds people are polling their monies to make a greater impact. These investors are called LPs- Limited Partners. And the people who run the fund are called GPs- General Partners. They run the fund and determine where the money will be deployed. They do the due diligence and vetting of the businesses for you - and then deploy the capital into the entrepreneurs that they think are the most qualified to receive the funding and the most likely to succeed. In this way- it is similar to a mutual fund.Of course, you must be an accredited investor to invest in venture capital- meaning you earn over 200k per year or have assets over one million dollars outside of your home ownership.
The venture landscape needs more investors who are women, BiPoc, and LGBTQ for those sectors to receive more monies- because as I mention in my Ted Talk “Fund Women- Save The World” - people do tend to invest in people they identify with. So it’s important to have these sectors sitting at the decision-making table deciding who gets the funding.
With women coming into trillions of dollars in the coming decade- this shift of where the venture monies go can change- but only if we get into the arena and participate in it.
As we strive to create a more inclusive and diverse venture capital landscape, let's empower each other with knowledge and opportunities. The future of VC is bright, and by equipping ourselves with the right tools and information, we can all play a part in shaping it.
Catherine Gray
Producer- Show Her The Money
CEO She Angel Investors, Host of Podcast Invest in Her, Keynote Speaker
www.ShowHerTheMoneyMovie.com
Watch my Ted talk here!
https://youtu.be/Ms-tROEeLn4
