The FIN Academy provides insights into the VC world, offers the chance to build your own network, and imparts the practical knowledge and skills needed to become a business angel. With experts from the investment scene and a diverse community of like-minded individuals, the program is a great starting point for beginning or deepening your journey as an investor. The goal of the Initiator Svenja Lassen is to increase the proportion of women in the startup ecosystem. Female founders demonstrably receive less capital. But when they do, they are more likely to receive investments from female investors.
The six-module Academy covers topics including investment forms, pitch deck analysis, and impact investing. Experienced female business angels also provide insights and share their experiences. Tax and legal topics are also an element of the format.
FIN Academy: Learnings and Network
More than 195 women have already participated in one of the six previous FIN Academies – 65 of them from the Munich region. Clarissa Seybold, a former participant in the program, explains:
"Through the FIN Academy, I learned how startup investments work and feel optimally prepared to make my first investment as an investor. In addition to the many learnings, the network of female investors and founders is an asset that I find very valuable."
The network now includes almost 300 female business angels. Over 75 of the FIN members come from Munich and the surrounding area. Katja Ruhnke, Business Angel of the Year 2023, and Beate Fastricht, who was listed by Vestbee among the "100 Top Women in VC," are among them. FIN members have already invested over 1 million euros in startups – including targeted investments in female founders and diverse teams such as Hey Circle.
Julia Lorenz, another graduate and business angel, explains why the topic is important to her:
"Supporting female business angels is not just an act of equality, but a strategic investment in diversity and innovation. By encouraging women to act as financial backers, we open doors to new perspectives, skills, and ideas in entrepreneurship. The diversity of thought brought by female business angels not only enriches the business world but also contributes significantly to building a sustainable and successful economy."
Interested parties can register for the FIN Academy here until October 6, 2024 and will start on October 7, 2024.
