Equalize Startups is excited to share the highlights from our 2024 Impact Report. Founded in 2020, Equalize Startups addresses the underrepresentation of women in the startup ecosystem, particularly in academia. Our co-founders, Nichole Mercier, PhD, and Kirsten Leute, have built a program that equips women with the tools, connections, and confidence needed to turn their ideas into thriving businesses.
Women-led startups receive only 1.9% of venture capital funding, and women account for less than 13% of US patent holders. Equalize Startups is dedicated to changing this by providing a supportive community and essential resources for women entrepreneurs.
The Equalize Startups Program
Our six-month virtual program accelerates the entrepreneurial journey of women in academia. Participants, known as “Equalizers,” engage in mentoring sessions, peer networking, and targeted seminars. The program culminates in a virtual pitch event where Equalizers present their innovations to investors and startup supporters.
Highlights from 2024
- Support for 28 Women: In 2024, we supported 28 women from various disciplines, including medical technologies, therapeutics, digital health/tools, and physical sciences.
- Geographical Reach: Participants to date have represented 31 US states.
- In-Person Learning Day: In 2024, we introduced our inaugural in-person learning day at MassBio in Cambridge, MA.
Equalize by the Numbers
Since our inception, we have supported 90 women in academia and have engaged over 50 mentors and 12 judges in our pitch competition.
Mentors & Sponsorship Opportunities
Equalize Startups relies on the generous support of our sponsors and mentors to deliver high-quality training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Sponsorships enable us to keep the program free for participants and provide exclusive recognition and early access to participant pitch materials.
Program Expansion and Future Goals
We aim to expand our mentorship network, increase participant numbers, and broaden our geographical reach. New initiatives include enhanced peer communities, a newsletter for our supporters, and an expanded in-person day.
Join us in this mission. Your support can help us continue to break barriers and create opportunities for women innovators. Together, we can transform the startup landscape and empower the next generation of women leaders in STEM.