Episode 56: Gesa Miczaika - General Partner at Auxxo Female Catalyst Fund: How to Achieve Gender Equality in VC

EU-Startups Podcast

In this episode, Gesa Miczaika, co-founder and general partner at Auxxo Female Catalyst Fund, discusses the challenges and initiatives for achieving gender equality in the venture capital industry. She shares the story of creating the fund and the gradual realization of the need for change. Gesa emphasizes the importance of addressing the similarity bias and increasing diversity in investment teams and decision-makers. She also highlights the initiatives for fostering inclusivity in the startup ecosystem in Germany, such as promoting diverse cap tables and hiring practices. Gesa discusses the impact of the Evangelistas network and shares her personal strategies for finding equilibrium and avoiding burnout. She envisions a future where gender doesn't play a role in entrepreneurship and investment, and collaboration and abundance mindset are key. Takeaways 1.Addressing the similarity bias is crucial for achieving gender equality in the VC industry. 2.Increasing diversity in investment teams and decision-makers is essential. 3.Fostering inclusivity in the startup ecosystem includes promoting diverse cap tables and changing hiring practices.