Only 3% of venture capital went to female founders in 2023.
Despite the proven ROI of women-led startups, and steady growth in female entrepreneurship. We have to change that.
TiE Women was created to remove barriers to access and funding for female entrepreneurs and provide a global platform for women-owned startups. As a chapter, we actively seek opportunities to elevate and empower female voices, support women-owned businesses, and ensure female representation.
The TiE Women Global Pitch Competition is an annual program designed to support and elevate women-led startups. Female founders gain the opportunity to compete at the TiE Global Summit, access world-class mentorship, connect with investors, and join a global network of entrepreneurs. The top finalist from TiE Tampa Bay will represent the chapter at the global finals, competing for up to $50,000 in equity-free prize money.
Welcome aboard the Women Entrepreneurs/Female Founders: Season 2025 with
- Early Stage Startups Founded or Co-Founded by Women Entrepreneurs
- Women co-founder(s) must have minimum 33% stakeholder
- Companies registered on or after 1 Jan 2018 were eligible
Applications are closed for season 2025. TiE Women Program applications will open in February 2026.
Alex Edquist, CEO of Good Agriculture, proudly represented both TiE Tampa Bay and TiE Atlanta at the TiE Women Global Pitch Competition in Bangalore in December 2024. Competing on a global stage, Alex impressed audiences and judges alike with her mission-driven approach to agriculture and innovation. Her journey is a shining example of TiE Tampa’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs by providing access to funding, mentorship, and global exposure. Alex’s inspiring story was also featured in an interview with Linda Hurtado on WTVT FOX 13, where she shared her entrepreneurial path and vision. We’re proud to support bold founders like Alex as they scale their impact and inspire the next generation.
Shama Rathi, MD and Co-Founder of LunaJoy, was the 2023 winner of TiE Tampa Bay’s Women’s Pitch Competition and proudly represented our chapter on the global stage at the TiE Women Global Finals in Singapore. Competing against top women-led startups from around the world, Shama impressed with her vision to transform mental health care for women and ultimately earned the prestigious title of First Runner-Up. Her journey reflects the heart of TiE Tampa Bay’s mission—to elevate women entrepreneurs by providing a platform for funding, mentorship, and global recognition. Shama’s success showcases the incredible innovation and impact being driven by women founders in our community and continues to inspire future participants of the TiE Women initiative.