Rethink Impact, the largest impact venture firm in the U.S. dedicated to investing in female tech entrepreneurs, announced today the closing of a new $182M Fund II, bringing its total AUM to nearly $300M. Since launching in 2016, Rethink Impact has backed over 25 companies focusing on gender diverse teams helping to solve the world’s greatest challenges. With this new fund, the firm will provide additional access to funding with a continued focus on the leaders who need it most.
Rethink Impact’s newest Fund backers are among the most diverse in the venture industry. The Fund’s investor base is now 65% female and hails from nearly 40 states and includes Pivotal Ventures, the investment company founded by Melinda Gates, the Ford Foundation, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, university endowments, and significant financial institutions such as UBS . . .
“When we look at the data, we know companies that embrace diversity are more creative and more profitable. Yet, the tech industry does not at all reflect the diverse communities we live in. This has to change,” Melinda Gates, founder of Pivotal Ventures, said. “If we want to expand women’s power and influence in tech, one of the best actions we can take is invest in female entrepreneurs, which is why organizations like Rethink Impact are so critical. Ultimately, creating a more inclusive tech industry will not only lead to more innovation, but a society that benefits everyone.”