October is here, and we're turning up the lights on powerhouse women funders and founders! This month, we're celebrating the founders, funders, and advisors who are actively building a more equitable and dynamic ecosystem for women-led ventures.
We're so excited to introduce our new series, The Spotlight, presented in partnership with The Scotiabank Women Initiative®. Our inaugural feature is the incredible Kathryn From, a successful consumer products entrepreneur turned impactful angel investor.
You also won't want to miss our Founder's Fireside Chat on October 16th with Shalini Gupta, Founder and CEO of Asima Health Inc. Presented in partnership with Guardian Capital Advisors, we'll be diving into her company's story, funding ask, and more. If you're curious about angel investing, this is a great opportunity to explore the world of women-led startups.
A huge thank you to our National Founding Partner, Osler, for their continued partnership. We recently held two impactful events with them - a legal workshop, Startup Funding & Term Sheets, and an Exclusive Venture Dinner - we've got the recording and highlights for you below!
Plus, keep an eye out for the next issue of The Angel Insights Series, coming later this month. We're diving into Early Stage Financings & Term Sheets.
Finally, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Olivia Hornby, who has been a committed member of WFW's Advisory Council since 2023. Olivia is passing the torch to Caroline von Hirschberg, Co-CEO of Spring. Olivia supported our launch events in Toronto and Waterloo, and was instrumental in the success of our Vancouver launch. We're excited to welcome Caroline on board, and are looking forward to her expertise and perspective for upcoming events and initiatives.
With gratitude,
Lara, Deborah & Sherry
Co-founders, Women Funding Women
PS: Our mission thrives on collective action. Is there someone in your network who would gain value from the events in this newsletter? Invite them!
Meet Kathryn From
As a successful consumer products entrepreneur turned impactful angel investor, Kathryn From is actively shaping Canada's entrepreneurial ecosystem by backing the next generation of women-led ventures. She is the founder of both Wonderment Ventures, which provides capital and expertise to a select group of startups across various consumer sectors, and The Wonder Collective, a group of female funders dedicated to supporting female founders.
We’re excited to feature Shalini Gupta, Founder and CEO of Asima Health Inc. Asima is developing an early, accurate and accessible multi-cancer detection test from a single blood draw that is faster, cheaper and better than industry standards.
Investors and Aspiring Investors Step into the world of women-led startups and learn how you can help create meaningful change. Join us for a virtual session featuring a live founder chat where we dive into Asima's story, cap table, growth trajectory, and funding ask. Curious about angel investing? You're welcome here.
On September 30th, Women Funding Women Inc. and our National Founding Partner, Osler, hosted an intimate dinner for women founders and funders. Conversation flowed over a delicious meal, and a few themes emerged that truly resonated with everyone:
Beyond the Business Plan We heard that it's about more than just a great idea; it's about having someone believe in you. Founders run on “cash and belief.” Having an investor who sees your vision and puts money down to back it can make all the difference.
The Power of Trust and Values Success isn't just about due diligence and numbers. The end of a transaction is the beginning of a relationship. Trust, values, and fit are crucial, and you can't test for them on a spreadsheet.
Building an Unfiltered Network Women often lack the informal networks that men have. The goal of evenings like this is to help build that transparent, open network where everyone can feel informed, connected, and empowered.
A Great Idea is a Great Idea Investors back founders because they have a great idea, not because they are women. "This isn't a charity." We're proud to be part of an ecosystem that identifies and supports groundbreaking, innovative solutions. By definition, innovation is risky and about being the first.
We look forward to more events like this in the future!
Startup Funding & Term Sheets - Legal Workshop
Get equipped with the knowledge to navigate the world of startup investment with confidence in this legal workshop led by Laura Webb, Partner, Emerging and High Growth Companies, Osler.
Designed for early-stage founders navigating investment and investors looking to deepen their understanding of deal terms.
Financial empowerment through education - for startup founders who are looking to raise capital.
Whether you're navigating your first round or exploring strategies for growth, this series is tailored to provide actionable insights, expert guidance, and the tools you need to succeed in the fundraising process.
Building Businesses That Attract Capital
October 8th
How to Ask for Capital (& Actually Get It)
November 12th
How to Spot Red & Green Flags in a Founder (& Investor!)
Dream. Pitch. Rise. That’s what happens when bold founders step onto the stage at The Power of the Pitch™. This isn’t just a competition—it’s where ideas ignite, investors lean in, and women entrepreneurs rise with capital, visibility, and power. The front row is set, the energy is building, and the only thing missing is you.
For founders, the value of a pitch doesn’t come from the award at the end, but from the eyes and ears in the room — investors, media, and partners who can transform a business with one decision. Momentum, not medals, drives growth.
WFW is proud to participate, with Deborah Rosati (WFW Co-founder) taking the stage as MC, while Sherry Shannon-Vanstone (WFW Co-founder) and Micha Choi (WFW Advisory Council member) join the distinguished judging panel.
Know their fundraising goal and are ready to run a smart, founder-led process.
Want targeted guidance to fill the gaps between where they are now and where investors need them to be Value community: join a national cohort of ambitious peers who push, support, and share the real journey If that sounds like you, you’re in our sweet spot and now’s the time to apply.
Canada51 Hub: Funding Options for Underrepresented Founders
A comprehensive list designed to connect you with investors committed to investing in women and underrepresented founders.
Whether you’re a woman, person of colour, part of the LGBTQ+ community, first generation immigrant, or part of other underrepresented groups, this database is your gateway to discovering investors who are committed to diversity and inclusion.
Congratulations to winners of the Lions Liar's Pitch Competition!
CoLab Education claimed the top prize of $30,000 for their AI-powered professional network that is transforming how educators collaborate.
Beck's Broth took home both the second-place prize of $12,500 and the $2,500 People’s Choice Award for their nourishing, protein-packed comfort drinks.
Atorvia secured third place and $5,000 for their early-stage biotech work aimed at ending organ failure.
Angel Investors play a critical role in the startup ecosystem. Dive into The Angel Insights Series to learn about the players, the process, and the impact.
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