Vienna-based Fund F, a venture capital firm, has closed its first fund at €28 million, exceeding its initial target of €20 million. The firm focuses on supporting early-stage startups with gender-diverse founding teams. With increasing attention on gender balance in venture capital, Fund F aims to provide funding exclusively to companies that have at least one female co-founder with equal ownership. The fund’s investors include the European Investment Fund (EIF), institutional investors, business angels, and founders, with a third of them being women. Fund F’s investment approach seeks to address funding disparities faced by female entrepreneurs in Europe.
Previously, gender-diverse startup funding has been a topic of concern, with reports highlighting lower investment levels for female-led companies. Similar initiatives have emerged to counter this trend, though many funds remain male-dominated. Fund F differentiates itself by requiring female co-founders to have equal ownership. In this context, the firm positions itself as a dedicated player in reducing gender gaps in venture capital.
How Does Fund F Allocate Its Investments?
Fund F plans to invest around €300,000 in 25 early-stage European startups that meet its criteria. Additionally, 60% of the total fund will be reserved for follow-on investments. The firm also aims to lead 30% of its portfolio companies, providing not just financial backing but also strategic guidance.
Since its initial closing, Fund F has already backed 14 companies, including senevo, KOA Biotechnology, AI-BOB, Sirius, and Cordon Technologies. These investments span various industries, aligning with the firm’s sector-agnostic approach while emphasizing digital business models that promote workplace equality.
What Sectors Does Fund F Focus On?
Although not limited to specific industries, Fund F prioritizes certain sectors such as ClimateTech, FemTech & HealthTech, FinTech & InsurTech, and HR Tech. The common requirement for all investments is that they must have the potential for scalability and profitability while upholding diversity in their leadership teams.
The firm collaborates with Female Founders, a platform that supports women in tech and innovation, reaching over 60,000 individuals. This partnership strengthens Fund F’s position in the European startup ecosystem and aligns with its mission to increase female representation in entrepreneurship.
Fund F receives support from InnovFin Equity, backed by the European Union through Horizon 2020 Financial Instruments and the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI). These initiatives were developed under the Investment Plan for Europe to support innovation-driven businesses.
The European venture capital landscape has long been criticized for its gender imbalance, with a significant portion of funding going to male-led startups. Efforts such as Fund F’s model aim to address this issue by ensuring female entrepreneurs receive equitable access to investment opportunities. While this approach may influence how capital is distributed, broader industry shifts will likely be needed to create lasting change. Investors and institutions backing such initiatives contribute to a more balanced funding environment, but long-term impact will depend on sustained efforts and measurable outcomes.
