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A free panel series launching Feb. 25 at Refraction in Tysons Corner will help women navigate angel investing and learn how they can direct early-stage funding toward companies they believe in.

Women-founded companies receive approximately 2% of the funding secured by companies founded by men. Stephanie Marshall, board president of Citrine Angels and its nonprofit arm, Citrine Impact, said increasing the number of women making investments could help narrow that divide.

“The more women we can get writing checks, the more women will get funded,” Marshall said.

Angel investors use their own money to provide capital to startups, typically in exchange for equity. That distinguishes them from venture capitalists, who invest funds managed on behalf of others.

Citrine Angels’ Female Funder Panel Series is intended to make that process less intimidating. Discussions will address practical questions, including how to decide when to write a first check, how much to invest and how many investments to make.

Women accounted for 39.1% of the active angel investor market, according to the Center for Venture Research. That was down from 46.7% in 2023.

Marshall said women may be familiar with saving through a 401(k) or buying stocks but less comfortable with angel investing and private equity. The series is designed for people who are “angel curious,” including those who do not yet think of themselves as investors and want an accessible introduction.

Angel investing can also allow people to support industries that reflect their experience and priorities. Marshall offered the example of someone with a wireless-industry background investing specifically in wearable technology because she understands the market and its potential health applications.

“Diversity among investors directly shapes where money flows and which ideas are funded,” Marshall said.

She added that entrepreneurs without wealthy personal networks still have ways to finance a young company. Grants, non-dilutive funding and other sources can help founders get startups off the ground without relying solely on friends and relatives able to contribute tens of thousands of dollars.