Investors & the ‘Pipeline Problem’: How to Build Inclusive Portfolios For Angel & VC Investments – a 2 part discussion

For funding to reach underrepresented founders we need more BIPOC and Female investors to be able to make investment decisions. However, we also need current established and -mostly white- investors and funding groups to actively source -and fund- such founders.

A key issue brought up in many conversations with investors is that of a ‘pipeline problem’, meaning a lack of access/perceived existence of underrepresented founders in deal sourcing. We wanted to look into this issue in 2 parts, moderated by Banu Ozkazanc-Pan from the Venture Capital Inclusion Lab:

Part 1 – Wed, Oct 28th, 2pm – 3:30pm EDT
To explore this idea we have asked experts and white investors who have built a truly diverse portfolio to explore concrete ways for all investors to diversify funding opportunities. We’ll look at Investment data and trends, and we’ll explore common biases and ways to expand deal sourcing, network and move beyond pattern matching to increase investor returns and diversify portfolios. We’ll also look at what happens post investment on ways of giving equitable access to key networks and mentorship.

Part 2 – Wed, November 18th, 1pm – 2:30pm EDT
We have also convened groups who are building pipelines, or redefining access for underrepresented founders in various ways. From platforms, to programs and partnerships these groups offer concrete resources for funding and supporting more ‘new majority’ founders.

This open & ‘imperfect’ conversation is calling in all investors, entrepreneurs and community builders who want to support a more diverse and equitable startup ecosystem.

We will explore:
– How to understand and debunk the pipeline ‘problem’ and why this idea is false and damaging to underestimated communities.
– New & emergent practices & data in funding & inclusion
– Industry-wide best practices in fostering diversity in deal flow
– Approaches that contribute to increased returns pre & post investment

This event is part of a series of conversations curated by The Capital Network & The Venture Capital Inclusion Lab titled: Investment and Inclusion – Effective Approaches and Practices

From pipeline, portfolio and performance, this Series will explore how investors can create a more diverse portfolio that will support underrepresented founders while growing their returns. We will look at the data, strategies and DEI best practices around doing so and look to experts who have achieved this.

Learn more.