Brussels, 17–18 March 2026
The HER FUND Project reached a defining milestone with an intensive two-day programme, bringing together founders, investors, policymakers, and partners to both celebrate impact and shape what comes next for women-led innovation in Europe.
Day 1 — European Female Founders Summit: Women Who Build Europe
On 17 March, during the European Female Founders Summit – Women Who Build Europe, HER FUND officially marked the closure of a 24-month journey dedicated to strengthening a more inclusive European investment ecosystem.
As highlighted throughout the day: “Courage is contagious.”
A major highlight of the day was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between HER FUND and European Female Founders, ensuring the continuation of an open, pan-European network to support women entrepreneurship and collaboration across the innovation ecosystem.
The Summit also featured inspiring contributions from policymakers, including:
- MEP Tsvetelina Penkova, opening the day with a strong commitment to actionable policy
- MEP Sirpa Pietikäinen, closing with a forward-looking vision for a more inclusive and sustainable innovation ecosystem
Day 2 — Final General Assembly
On 18 March, partners reconvened for the final General Assembly of the HER FUND Project, a key moment to reflect on the journey and consolidate results.
This closing session focused on:
- Reviewing achievements and project outcomes
- Sharing lessons learned and best practices
- Discussing sustainability and future collaboration pathways
It provided a dedicated space for partners to align on how the work initiated by HER FUND can continue to create lasting impact beyond the project’s lifecycle.
