“Show Her the Money” Documentary Highlights Need for More Funding for Female Founders
“Show Her the Money” Documentary Highlights Need for More Funding for Female Founders
Over 100 people gathered at Alamo Drafthouse on South Lamar in Austin to watch the documentary “Show Her the Money,” which sheds light on the challenges female founders face in securing Venture Capital funding. The film, produced by Catherine Gray, emphasizes the stark reality that female founders receive only 2 percent of Venture Capital investments.
During a panel discussion following the screening, Gray expressed her motivation for creating the film, stating, “I’m a big believer that film and television help change culture like awareness creates change.” The documentary aims to raise awareness, educate, and inspire more women to participate in Venture Capital and angel investing.
The film features entrepreneurs like Dawn Lafreeda, the largest single-owner franchisee within Denny’s restaurant chain, and Vicky Pasche, founder of Dapper Boi, a gender-neutral apparel line. It also includes insights from industry experts like Laurie Cercone, an angel investor with the Central Texas Angel Network, and Azin Radsan van Alebeek, co-founder of Emmeline Ventures.
One key takeaway from the documentary is the importance of aligning with investors who understand the specific challenges women face in the industry. Female founders are encouraged to be selective in choosing investors and to advocate for themselves in male-dominated spaces.
The panelists also highlighted the need for increased financial literacy from a young age and collective action to support and invest in diverse, underrepresented groups. The film’s global tour, sponsored by Wells Fargo, aims to spark conversations and drive change in the Venture Capital landscape.
Overall, “Show Her the Money” serves as a powerful call to action for more funding to be directed towards female founders, ultimately driving innovation and diversity in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
