Female Entrepreneurs Get a Boost as Austrian VC Fund Raises 28M Euros Investment Round

• Austrian VC Fund F finalizes €28M First Fund exceeding initial €20M projection
• €300K investments are planned for 25 European pre-seed and seed start-ups
• The presence of at-least one female co-founder with proportional equity ownership should be ensured

Austrian VC firm, Fund F has closed its debut fund at €28M, exceeding its €20M target. Launched in 2022, the fund supports early-stage teams with diverse leadership. It addresses the gender funding gap by channelling more investment into female led start-ups, which remains underfunded in the VC landscape.

Targeting gender diverse leaderships, the firm is set to invest €300K in 25 European start-ups at their pre-seed and seed stages. The presence of at-least one female co-founder with proportional equity ownership should be ensured. A majority of the fund, 60% is designated for follow-on rounds, ensuring resources to scale and navigate successfully.

“We often talk about the importance of gender diversity when it comes to founders and VC investment decisions, but diversity among LPs is just as critical. It shapes how capital is allocated, what opportunities are prioritised, and who gets to build the companies of the future,” says Fund F’s cofounder Nina Wöss.

“Many women don’t see themselves as the target group for traditional VC funds, and that limits the pool of potential investors. By broadening our LP base, we’re not only increasing representation but also creating access for those who might otherwise feel excluded from this asset class.” “Ultimately, when more women participate as LPs, it sets off a cycle where they reinvest, become advocates, and help build a more inclusive economy.”

Although the challenging market environment posed fundraising difficulties, it also highlighted the need for reliable, long-term investment partners, Fund F cofounder Lisa-Marie Fassl told Sifted. At its final closing, the EU-backed European Investment Fund (EIF) invested €10M in the firm. This sends a clear message that institutional investors recognize the value of diverse teams.

According to Lisa, it also highlights their potential to deliver substantial returns. The firm’s LP network comprises a blend of entrepreneurs, angel investors, family offices, and institutional backers. Women represent a significant portion, making up one-third of the total investors, reflecting a commitment to diversity in venture capital.