FoundHers Innovation Labs is a Canada-based venture studio and accelerator program designed to support women-led technology startups in the digital and green economy. Established by FoundHers by Pitch Better, the initiative provides education, mentorship, venture coaching, investor access, and business development support to diverse women entrepreneurs seeking to scale innovative businesses. The program aims to address funding and opportunity gaps that continue to affect women founders in the startup ecosystem.
History and Background
FoundHers Innovation Labs was created following the findings of the 2021 “FoundHers” research study conducted by Pitch Better in collaboration with the Canadian Women’s Foundation. The study examined the experiences of Black women entrepreneurs across Canada and highlighted significant barriers related to funding, mentorship, and access to entrepreneurial networks.
In response, FoundHers Innovation Labs was launched to provide structured support for diverse women founders and to create pathways into venture capital, technology entrepreneurship, and innovation-led business growth. The initiative has since expanded its reach beyond Canada through collaborations and activities involving markets in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
Mission and Purpose
The mission of FoundHers Innovation Labs is to help women entrepreneurs lead the digital and green economy by providing access to resources, mentorship, capital readiness programs, and entrepreneurial networks. The organization envisions a future where women founders are at the forefront of technological innovation and economic development.
Its primary objectives include:
- Supporting women-led technology startups
- Increasing access to venture capital opportunities
- Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship
- Building sustainable and scalable businesses
- Strengthening representation of diverse founders
- Creating economic opportunities through technology and innovation
Governance and Structure
FoundHers Innovation Labs operates as part of the broader FoundHers venture studio ecosystem created by Pitch Better Inc. The organization combines startup acceleration, venture-building expertise, mentorship, and investor engagement to support entrepreneurs throughout their growth journey. Leadership includes experienced investors, startup advisors, and business development professionals with expertise in venture capital and innovation ecosystems.
Funding and Startup Support Programs
FoundHers Innovation Labs Accelerator
The flagship program is a three-month hybrid accelerator designed specifically for women-led tech businesses. Participants receive customized venture coaching, workshops, business development support, and investor-readiness training.
Venture Coaching and Mentorship
Founders gain access to experienced venture coaches, industry experts, investors, and business advisors who provide guidance on startup growth, market strategy, fundraising, and operational development.
Investment Readiness
The program helps startups prepare for funding through pitch coaching, valuation guidance, business planning, financial forecasting, and investor presentations. Demo days and business showcases provide opportunities to connect directly with potential investors.
Technical and Growth Support
Participants receive assistance with product development, technical resource planning, CTO matching opportunities, user acquisition strategies, and scaling plans designed to accelerate business growth.
Major Programs and Initiatives
Digital and Green Economy Focus
FoundHers prioritizes startups developing solutions in technology-driven sectors that contribute to digital transformation and environmental sustainability.
Cross-Border Entrepreneurship
The organization actively supports connections between Canadian entrepreneurs and emerging opportunities across the MENA region, helping founders access international markets and partnerships.
Diverse Founder Empowerment
A core focus of the initiative is supporting women from underrepresented communities by addressing barriers to funding, mentorship, and entrepreneurial resources.
Impact and Achievements
FoundHers Innovation Labs has demonstrated significant growth since its launch. Program statistics indicate more than 900 applications, 30 companies accelerated, over $1.8 million deployed to founders, and more than $25 million in follow-on capital raised by participating startups. The organization has also established partnerships with numerous institutional and corporate partners while conducting international showcase events.
The accelerator reports high participant satisfaction and continues to contribute to the advancement of women-led innovation and entrepreneurship in Canada and beyond.
Conclusion
FoundHers Innovation Labs has emerged as an important platform for advancing women-led entrepreneurship in the technology sector. Through venture-building support, mentorship, investor readiness training, and access to entrepreneurial networks, the organization is helping diverse founders build scalable businesses and participate more fully in the innovation economy. Its continued focus on inclusion, technology, and sustainable growth positions it as a valuable contributor to Canada’s startup ecosystem and the broader global innovation landscape.
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