Our Method
We identify female founded companies through our deep network, regular pitch meetings, inbound requests, and friends inside and outside the investment community. We see ourselves as partners to the companies we invest in and support.
We identify creative opportunities for partnership
We understand not every company has the same needs, or requires the same investment. We provide both investment and consulting services to the founders we support.
We get involved in companies we are passionate about
We roll up our sleeves and get to work right next to the founders we support, identifying revenue and profit growth opportunities, providing introductions, and acting as an extension of their team.
We strive to leave the world a better place
While our model prioritizes female-founders, we don’t stop there. We lean into ESG principles, because we know companies that establish strong social foundations early are better prepared to serve shareholders and stakeholders.
We are passionate, lifelong learners
We are excited to work with a variety of businesses and founders. We approach problems with curiosity and open-mindedness, looking forward to utilizing our careers, network, and resources to learn and propose creative solutions.
Our Process
We focus entirely on women owned and founded companies. While we aim to address the disparity in funding, we also believe investing in women will provide outsized returns to our portfolio. Women owned companies tend to be more profitable and socially responsible (HBR Article) – the perfect combination for an investment fund with big goals.
Our first meeting with companies is a general meet and greet, and a chance for entrepreneurs to give their pitches and get to know Leonas and our philosophy. If we decide we can support you – via investment or advisory – follow-up meetings are a longer, and we may bring in resources and experts to ask questions and weigh in. We then will propose a path to move forward. Then, it will be up to you to roll up your sleeves and get to work with us by your side!
Our Strategy
We identify women owned and founded companies in the healthcare, technology, and retail sectors that are addressing a large market need with a differentiated product or service. After an initial conversation, we make a decision about moving forward, and work on a strategy tailored to each specific company and market.
We have a follow up conversation with the company to discuss our ideas and vision, and to make sure that is in alignment with the founders goals. We sometimes bring in experts or potential board advisors in these conversations for additional ideas and assessment.
After finalizing the deal, we get to work! Depending on the stage, investment, and consulting agreement, we set up a schedule of regular meetings, begin introductions, etc.
