Women's Venture Challenge 2026

Discover the Future of Tech at New Tech Colorado

Female startup founders face a severe, persistent funding gap, with all-female teams receiving only about 2% of total global venture capital, a figure that has barely moved in over a decade, despite often outperforming their peers in revenue generated per dollar invested.

Get ready to be inspired by the women inventors and entrepreneurs in our ecosystem. Tonight is about shining a spotlight (and some prize money) on these worthy startups.

As always, this event is FREE and WELCOME to EVERYONE.

This Month's Presenters are the 6 finalists of the Women’s Venture Challenge!

Why You Should Be There:

• Join our celebration of female entrepreneurship in Colorado
• Network with investors and innovators pushing the boundaries of technology
• Enjoy food and beverages from local women-owned purveyors

Interested in applying to present? Register here: https://bit.ly/WVC2026.

If you have questions about applying, contact Shreya Madhavarapu at mshreya.rao [at] gmail.com.

Interested in sponsoring?
Contact: Susan Strong via email SusanEStrong [at] comcast.net.

Venture Challenge Information:

• Applications open Feb 6 - March 1, 2026
• Finalists announced March 17, 2026
• All 6 finalists will be invited to pitch live to a panel of local investor judges
• All 6 finalists will receive cash and/or in-kind prizes
• All eligible applicants will have access to two remote workshops:
  “How to pitch effectively” - led by Julie Penner
  “How to be fundable” - led by Sally Hatcher
• Applicant eligibility:
  -Pitch presenter must be female startup founder/cofounder with significant ownership
  -Companies must be based in Colorado
  -Companies cannot have raised more than $500k in total funding/revenue
  -Founders of pre-incorporated companies are eligible to compete

“New to Boulder” Pre-Event (5-6pm) Networking
Once a month, we welcome anyone new to the Boulder tech and startup scene, in person. We'll answer your questions, direct you to the right resources, and help make introductions where appropriate. Plus you'll meet other community members and individuals new to Boulder, yay new friends! RSVP here: [lu.ma/coloradostartups]

Mark your calendar for a night of dynamic conversations, new friends and groundbreaking ideas. Let’s connect and inspire!