Fundraising Insights
for Female Founders



Insights



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Many of our female founders tell us that the start-up and investment arena was intimidating at first, so we share our industry insight to demystify some of the more complicated elements. We help you to gain the inside track by lifting the lid on the industry secrets that founders commonly tell us they wished they’d known when starting out.
by Julia Elliott Brown 30 June 2025
Integrity is a vital value in business, yet not everyone lives by it. Here's what integrity really means, why it matters, and how to spot the red flags when it's missing.
by Julia Elliott Brown 26 June 2025
Your board must evolve as you scale. Learn when to make changes, how to do it well, and why it matters - especially for female founders leading growth.
by Julia Elliott Brown 23 June 2025
In uncertain times, a strong board can be a founder’s most valuable asset. This article explores how boards can support startup and scaleup leaders through economic challenges, strategic pivots, financial pressure, and difficult decisions, with practical insights for building and leveraging a high-impact board.
by Julia Elliott Brown 20 June 2025
Should board members ever take on operational roles in a startup? This article explores when it can work, what can go wrong, and how founders and boards can manage the risks — including formal approval, clear deliverables, and conflict of interest safeguards.
by Julia Elliott Brown 9 June 2025
Scaling a business without a clear growth strategy is like driving with no destination. In this article, we explore how founders can define a personal vision that balances impact, financial reward, and work/life balance — then translate that into goals, KPIs, and operational focus. Whether you're scaling up or seeking board advisory support, this guide will help you put your strategy into gear and drive your business forward with purpose.
by Julia Elliott Brown 29 May 2025
This article explores the vital role a Chair of the Board plays in supporting founder-CEOs beyond governance. Often referred to as the "CEO Whisperer," a great Chair acts as a trusted advisor, coach, and bridge between the CEO and the board. With a focus on emotional intelligence, strategic insight, and strong communication, the right Chair helps founders navigate leadership challenges, make better decisions, and build stronger businesses. Ideal for startup founders, boards, and investors looking to understand how to foster more effective board-CEO relationships.
by Julia Elliott Brown 29 May 2025
A practical guide for scaling founders on how to compensate board members. Learn what to pay NEDs, Chairs, and advisors, how to use cash vs equity, and how to structure contracts for effective board governance.
by Julia Elliott Brown 4 May 2025
Why founder-and-investor-only boards can hold your business back, especially for female founders. Discover how the right board structure, with an independent chair or NED, supports scale, strategy, and sustainable growth.
by Julia Elliott Brown 30 April 2025
Discover what high-growth businesses really need from their boards — and how the right Chair, strategy and support can unlock powerful growth.
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