ayana x ATX Tech Week | A.W.E. 🏙️
​Join the ayana Foundation for an Exciting Kickoff to Austin Tech Week!
Official Capital Factory Session Page: https://www.austintech.com/agenda/session/1471681
​📅 Date: Monday, October 28th | 12:30 pm - 6:00pm
đź“Ť Location: Inn Cahoots, Austin, TX
🤝 In Partnership With: Inn Cahoots, Moneta Ventures, Optimal Counsel, Dell Technologies, Capital Factory, and Ellevoy.
​The ayana Foundation, in collaboration with A.W.E. (Austin Women in Entrepreneurship) and Capital Factory, is thrilled to host a dynamic event celebrating the vibrant community of women entrepreneurs in Austin. Whether you're a seasoned founder, an emerging entrepreneur, or an investor, this event is designed to spark meaningful connections and provide valuable insights.
​What You Can Look Forward To
đź’¬ Engaging Panels by ayana Foundation & Dell Technologies
Panel 1: 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm
InnovateHER: Pitching with Purpose
​Successful founders and investors come together to share key strategies for securing funding, focusing on navigating challenges in male-dominated spaces. Hear firsthand insights on how to craft compelling pitches, build meaningful relationships with investors, and leverage support beyond the initial check. Learn what funders look for in early-stage startups and how founders can position themselves for long-term success. This discussion offers founders and funder perspectives on what it takes to make impactful power moves in today’s competitive investment landscape.
​Panelists:
​Brooke VanSant - Moneta VenturesÂ
​Lawton Cummings- GP, Capital FactoryÂ
​Sidney Collins, Co-Founder, President, & CTO of NexStrideÂ
​Mandy Lawrence, Senior Attorney, Optimal CounselÂ
​Moderated by Jaclynn Brennan, Co-Founder & Executive Director of ayana Foundation
​Panel 2: 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
State & Stats of Women in Entrepreneurship - Austin, the U.S., and Beyond
​This panel will explore women's current entrepreneurship landscape, drawing on insights from key reports, including the DWEN WE Cities Index, the Austin Mayor’s Task Force for Women Entrepreneurs, and DivInc’s Equity Nation 2030 report. Discussions will focus on venture capital trends, the impact of gender on entrepreneurship, and Austin's evolving ecosystem. The goal is to uncover challenges like the scarcity of women investors and highlight innovative solutions that drive equity and growth. The session aims to spark meaningful action, with Austin positioned as a leader in inclusive entrepreneurship.
​Panelists:
​YJ Lin – D4S (Sponsor Intro)
​Dr. Lesley Robinson – Co-Founder & Director of Education, ayana Foundation (Moderator)
​Patti Kelly – Founder, Solari Strategies
​Elisa Sepulveda – Head of Development & Marketing, DivInc
​Dr. Patricia Greene - Professor Emerita, Babson College and Former Director of the Women’s Bureau, U.S. Dept. of Labor
​🤝 Founder-Funder & Mentor Matching by Ellevoy
Connect with like-minded individuals for collaborative support in funding, building your business, or peer-to-peer mentorship. Find accountability partners and encouragement as you grow.
​🌮 Delicious Lunch by Buenos Aires Cafe
Savor mouth-watering Argentine cuisine while hanging with fellow attendees (the best empanadas in town!)Â
​🍹 Networking Happy Hour powered by Capital Factory
Raise a glass and connect with founders, funders, and industry professionals. It’s the perfect opportunity to expand your network!
​🎵 Live Music Curated by Inn Cahoots
Experience the energy of Austin’s music scene with live performances by local female artists curated by Founder & CEO of Inn Cahoots, Kristin Carson.Â
​Why Attend?
This is more than just an event—it's a celebration of community, innovation, and collaboration. Whether you're looking to learn from the best, connect with potential partners, or simply celebrate the incredible women shaping Austin's entrepreneurial landscape.Â
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By registering for this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, and/or recorded for promotional purposes by the event organizers for use in event-related materials, including but not limited to social media, websites, and promotional materials.
You will be opted-in to the ayana newsletter and receive marketing communications on products, exclusive offers for members and special events from Dell Technologies, DWEN and Dell for Startups. You may unsubscribe at any time.