New program to support females in fintech

A Melbourne-based fintech innovation hub has launched a ‘Females in Fintech’ program.

Karen Cohen, expert in residence at Stone & Chalk, will head the initiative. She has extensive experience in the fintech sector and is the co-organiser of Women in Blockchain, also in Melbourne.

The newly announced program will establish a network for women working in the fintech industry to benefit from specially tailored events, mentoring and education. The three “carefully structured pillars” have been designed to facilitate connections that will help to both accelerate and improve the women’s businesses.

Cohen explained, “According to BCG research, when women business owners pitch their ideas to investors for early-stage capital, they receive significantly less than men —a disparity that averages more than $1m.”

The education will centre on customer growth techniques and funding readiness, with a strong focus on developing leadership skills and generating a higher representation of women on executive boards.

The networking events and mentoring will enable participants to learn directly from high-profile and experienced speakers who can “amplify their connections” and help guide successful growth for the attendees.

“We are excited to launch a program specifically dedicated to growing and supporting women in the fintech ecosystem,” said Alan Tsen, GM of Stone & Chalk.

The program is open not only to Stone & Chalk residents, but all fintech startups in Victoria. Applications close at the end of June.