Where female founders in the DMV meet to access capital, community, and connections
Our Core Programs
Venture Showcase
Each year, we run two venture challenges for DC-area female founders where the winner walks away with a $10K cash prize. All applications are reviewed by our investor committee, and all are eligible for additional cash and in-kind prizes.
Breakfast Club
We bring a curated community together once per month for coworking and breakfast. Invited founders are also able to book office hours with investors, later-stage founders, and experts.
Dinners
We host small dinners with female founders and investors, often organized by industry, together for a seated dinner where they can build strong relationships within the community.
Happy Hours
We host the occasional small happy hours. Some are just for founders, and others bring together both founders and investors.
Network Introductions
Direct outreach within our network to connect founders with local investors and mentors
Our work is making an impact - but don’t take our word for it:
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"This is hands down the best way to support female founders short of cutting a check."
Emma Bates, CEO at Cachai
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“Agora has opened so many doors for us, from great advice around raising our pre-seed round, all the way to potential strategic partnerships.”
Kathryn Adabonyan, CEO at GoPursue
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“Agora is like a fast track – you don't have to spend a bunch of time running around trying to find answers. An introduction through the group was instrumental in our ability to fundraise and that was a complete game changer for us."
Skye Lawrence, CEO at Ampere
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"Historically female founders struggle to 'get in the right room with the right people' to secure capital, partnerships, etc. Agora IS the room."
Kay Rodriguez, CEO at Outerly
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"I've been very impressed by all of the Agora events in 2024. There's genuine commitment and enthusiasm from the planners to create excellent events for founders and investors to build meaningful relationships."
Rob Runett, Partner at Motley Fool Ventures
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"In a world full of programming for founders, Agora stands apart by instantly adding value. All the events I've gone to have made some kind of direct impact on me or my business."
Aditi Shekar, CEO at Ask Zeta
