Female Founders Fund

Female Founders Fund (F3), established in 2014 by Anu Duggal, is a pioneering early-stage venture capital firm based in New York City. The firm distinguishes itself with a singular focus on investing in technology companies founded by women, aiming to address the significant funding gap that female entrepreneurs often face within the venture ecosystem. F3's mission extends beyond capital provision, actively fostering a supportive community and providing strategic guidance to its portfolio companies.

F3 primarily targets pre-seed and seed-stage investments, positioning itself as a crucial early partner for emerging female-led startups. Over the years, the firm has demonstrated consistent growth in its capital base, successfully raising four funds. Its most recent vehicle, Fund IV, closed at $50 million in 2023, bringing the firm's total assets under management to approximately $91 million. With this increased capital, Female Founders Fund now typically writes initial checks ranging from $750,000 to $1.5 million, reflecting its commitment to providing substantial early-stage support.

The firm's investment thesis spans various sectors within technology, including consumer, enterprise, fintech, and healthcare, with a keen eye for disruptive business models. Notable companies in its portfolio include Zola, Rent the Runway, and Winky Lux, among others, showcasing its ability to identify and back high-potential ventures. Female Founders Fund plays a vital role in shaping a more inclusive venture landscape, not only by deploying capital but also by advocating for diversity and empowering a new generation of female leaders in the tech industry.