FAQ.

As an investment network founded by women, no one better understands what it takes to get women-led startups off the ground like we do.

We believe education is a key driver in closing the investment-gender gap. That’s why we created EducatEd! Our unique, diverse and accessible education platform with online courses tailored to both founders and investors.

We are generally unable to provide refunds for any of our Scale EducatEd programs. Please understand this is because we have staffing and resource requirements to ensure the functioning and maintenance of our programs.

However, we also understand that there are circumstances beyond one’s control.

If you’d like to discuss a refund with a memer of the team, get in touch with us at education@scaleinvestors.com.au.

The cost of FoundEd is $350 + gst.

Included in this fee is 5 modules of online-learning + 1 small cohort pitch deck development session. Additional small mentor sessions can be booked.

*All FoundEd program purchases are redeemable against the cost of our follow-on program, EmpowerEd! (Should you be accepted).

Learn more about EmpowerEd here.

FoundEd is self-paced, so founders can jump in and out as little/ often as they like.

Each module includes around 1.5 hours worth of video content. The additional time commitment will depend on what each founder is wanting to achieve.

This program is designed for women founders with limited experience in capital raising and who are at the beginning of their capital raising journey.

The program covers the very basics of what you need to know!

FoundEd is also a great refresher for any founders looking to brush up on their terminology and understanding of the startup ecosystem.

For founders who are later in their funding journey, consider submitting an application to join our more in-depth 10-week program, EmpowerEd.

What kind of support do you get during the program? Included in the cost of FoundEd is 1 * 1 hour small group pitch deck development session. You can also leave comments on the platform to connect with other founders.

If you seek additional mentorship- we suggest booking either a 1.1 pitch deck development session or additional small group mentorship sessions (available to those in Scale EducatEd programs only)

There are no pre-requisite requirements for any Scale EducatEd programs.

It is not necesssary to complete FoundEd in order to be eligible for EmpowerEd. You can learn more about the eligibility for EmpowerEd via our FAQ.

However, our EmpowerEd program operates assuming founders have a basic understanding of the process to raise capital and the relevant terminology.

You may find the most value in the program by ensuring you have a good grasp of the basics! This is where we would reccomend FoundEd as a first step!

Why an application process?

In short, we want to make sure this program is suited to you, your needs and the stage you are at before you commit your time and money. EmpowerEd is heavily focused on funding your startup journey but if you are building a local business and don’t expect it to grow larger, we are happy to help you find a program that might better suit your needs. Or if you are at the very beginning of your capital raising journey we suggest FoundEd- our 101 investment ready program.

We look at the following areas when reviewing your application:

• Your startup idea or business

• Startup stage

• Ability to finish the program/ commitment

• Grit, confidence and curiosity

Why commitment? We understand that things come up- but given this is a cohort based program, the cohort needs to turn up.. That’s the reality..

How long will the process take? We aim to turn around applications within 2 weeks. You will then have two weeks to accept your place in the cohort.

Each cohort is made up of approximately 40 women-founders looking to learn about the capital raising process. Each founder will work with a smaller group of 10-12 women and the facilitator/ experts throughout the program- allowing for more feedback and connection. You join us at various stages in your journey as we believe it’s never too early to learn about capital raising. However, we do encourage those who are at the very early stages of their journey to consider our FoundEd program first.

You are each other's best champions and one of the biggest draw-cards of a women-only program.

How much time do you need to commit each week?

Each founder will need to attend a 1 hour session per week at a minimum. You can see full schedule details below. For the online learning component of the program we suggest putting aside an additional 2-3 hours per fortnight. Some founders will spend much more.. And to some extent this will be based on where you are at and what you need! Founders will also have access to the online content for a 3 month period post program, so you will be able to go back as things come up.

The EmpowerEd program has a fee of $1,500 + gst which will be charged on acceptance to the program. That is $150 per week- 50% of the cost of a typical mentor.

We have a range of flexible payment terms available for founders and we have some scholarship options available as we know sometimes ‘life gives you lemons’. Should you be in need of support, please reach out at education@scaleinvestors.com.au, so we can find the best fit solution for you.

The 2023 cohort is now complete. We will run two cohorts in 2024. One starting late Feb 24 and one starting June 24. Register your interest for these programs now!

Each week founders will attend either a whole group session or small cohort session. We try to build as much flexibility into the program as possible, meaning you can select the small group mentoring session time that works best for you and your life commitments.

Full schedule and dates will be released early 24

If you are a startup looking to grow and scale your business, then this program is for you!

EmpowerEd is best suited for women founded startups who are looking to fund their startup journey. Whilst we, at Scale Investors, are a network of Angel Investors, this does not mean we believe this is the best or only option for founders. EmpowerEd is designed to inform founders of the various ways they can fund their journey, including through grants.

If this is your first time thinking about raising capital we suggest doing our pre-program, FoundEd, first. The cost of the Investment 101 program is redeemable for anyone who goes on to do EmpowerEd.

Founders should note that we are looking to support and showcase committed women founders.

We truly believe the value lies in engagement with the network and so it is important that EmpowerEd founders are willing and able to put aside the time to attend weekly sessions and complete the learning.

*there is no guarantee of investment either by Scale Investors or other in doing this program

The difference between a startup and a small business? Startups typically create something new or improve something that already exists in the market in which they operate. Many startups are more ‘scalable’ than the typical small business, meaning that they have the potential to accelerate their growth significantly more quickly and increase revenue without proportionally increasing costs.

EmpowerEd is best suited to businesses who are looking to take on capital.

Still not sure? That’s okay, we get that.

The application is only 10 minutes and gives us an opportunity to get to know a bit about you. Perhaps you’d like to know more about us? Check out our socials and webpage. We’re confident you will be impressed by the exceptional women entrepreneurs we have previously supported. Women just like you! If you have a specific concern, send us an email :) libby@scaleinvestors.com.au and we can make time to chat!

Founders can apply for a range of scholarships for the EmpowerEd program. These either cover full program costs of part cover costs.

Each scholarship has requirements- full details of all scholarships will be released closer to the program date.