1.2% is not a typo.

Last week, we talked about how to make startup connections without feeling like you’re selling. This week, I want to talk about why that work matters so much and why relying on VC as the default plan still leaves too many people behind.

1.2%.

That’s the share of VC dollars that went to all-female founding teams in 2025 out of $339B invested. It’s also the lowest number in the past decade. Meanwhile, all-male founding teams received 62%, and mixed-gender teams received 37%.

A lot of what people call “progress” still comes with conditions. Sure, mixed teams gained share this year, but it still means the industry is far more comfortable funding innovation when there’s a man in the room.

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