Introduction to Venture Capital for Women

Since the 1960s, venture capital (VC) has underpinned novel technologies and new industries, such as computers, the internet and artificial intelligence. Since 1980, 40% of companies that have had an initial public offering on U.S. stock exchanges were backed by VC.

VC is part of the private equity asset class that is high risk-high return. Due to its high risk, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) limits advertising and participation to high net worth individuals, institutions and corporations. This has made VC an exclusive, invitation-only industry that has largely overlooked women and minorities.

Introduction to Venture Capital for Women provides an overview of the venture capital ecosystem and shows women how they can participate. Topics include: the role of venture capital in the economy, how funds are structured, why capital is not the most important thing VCs provide, how VCs find deal flow, and how investors get returns on investment.

The class is taught by Hillary Talbot, Managing Partner at être Venture Capital, and was developed with her partner, Jenny Kuan, PhD, a professor of economics and entrepreneurship at the College of Business at California State University Monterey Bay.

The class is held on the first Wednesday of the month. Each session lasts 1 hour over lunch (12pm – 1pm PST) on Zoom and is free. The intimate class size allows women to meet one another and form a support network. Students may enjoy their lunch during class. Sign up using the form.

Women should take this class if they are:

• Curious about venture capital
• Considering investing as a limited partner in a venture capital fund
• Working in tech, consult, or are exploring a career in finance
• Launching a high-growth business