Traditional funding systems are designed to fuel rapid growth and often require founders to give up equity in exchange for investment. However, research by Professor Helle Neergaard shows that many female founders prioritize retaining control, creating a legacy, and building sustainable ventures over the pursuit of fast growth.

But is the issue that women actively choose to opt out of external investments, or are they being overlooked? Do they avoid applying because they anticipate rejection, or do they consciously reject the investor model because it doesn’t align with their values and vision?

When funding systems fail to accommodate diverse ambitions, they limit the potential of entrepreneurs who think differently. This misalignment calls for a rethink of how we fund entrepreneurship.

Join us on April 29 for an open conversation on what can be done.

The panel:
  • Helle Neergaard, professor of entrepreneurship at Aarhus School of Business and Social Sciences, Aarhus University, presenting her research on women’s entrepreneurship.
  • Ida Cecilile Jensen, CEO of AgroAnt
  • Christina Lundsgaard Ottsen, ph.d. and expert in diversity and inclusion, shedding light on how systemic change can benefit all entrepreneurs
This event is for:
  • Students exploring entrepreneurship but hesitant about traditional paths
  • Entrepreneurs seeking alternative ways to grow their ventures
  • Allies, professionals, and academics interested in creating a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem

The alliance of 9 European Universities