According to Sifted, in 2024, VC investment in femtech climbed to over €334m, outperforming previous years.
And with Europe officially announcing its first Femtech unicorn last July, it seems that the sector is gaining momentum, and fast.
What Is Considered ‘Femtech?’
Femtech, or female technology, is a sector that focuses on tech that caters specifically to women’s health.
This could be in the form of an app, like FloHealth’s period tracker, a device, like Elvie’s breast pump or wearables like the Ava bracelet that tracks fertility.
Femtech can also be personalised supplements or wellbeing support to help with transitional phases like pregnancy or the menopause.
What Are The Most Popular Sectors For VC-Backed FemTech In Europe?
According to Dealroom, in Europe, the most popular segments for femtech VC investment are: menstruation care and reproductive health, followed by general health and wellness.
But despite the focus on women’s health, the femtech industry is still largely male dominated. According to the same Dealroom report, only 21% of femtech companies have a female (co-) founder, and since 2014, only 10% of venture capital in femtech has gone to women-founded companies.
But if you’re a femtech founder looking for investment, fear not. There are a number of European VCs specifically looking for the next big thing in women’s health.
Here are a few of them:
Goddess Gaia Ventures
Goddness Gaia Ventures is a London-based VC that describes itself as ‘Europe’s first and only dedicated women’s health and performance platform’.
Started in 2021, the VC raises funds that back the lastest technologies pioneering women’s health. They particularly focus on:
- Sports, strength and wellness
- Longevity
- Female cancers
- Mental health
- Reproductive health
The Case for Her
Hailing from Stockholm, Sweden, The Case For Her is a blended investment portfolio that particularly focuses on menstruation and sexual wellbeing.
Founded in 2017, the firm invests in companies and other funds that are at the forefront of women’s health.
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Calm/Storm Ventures
Calm/Storm Ventures is one of the ten most active femtech investors worldwide and one of the most active healthtech investors in Europe.
With 75 companies under their belt, they are backing some of the most innovative companies in healthcare.
Whilst the fund doesn’t just limit itself to companies improving women’s health, it’s certainly one to watch for femtech founders.
Essity Ventures
Essity is a VC fund that backs businesses creating a positive impact in the following areas:
- Life-stage solutions
- Hygiene
- Sustainability
- and health.
They back global hygiene and health businesses that are setting out to break down barriers to well-being.
in short: The company focuses on backing innovators that are improving living standards and health for people around the world.
The Craftory
The Craftory are a VC fund that look for some of the most radical and progressive companies in the world.
Whilst they aren’t just limited to femtech, the fund has already backed a number of companies working to improve women’s health.
Their portfolio companies include names trying to end period poverty, improve support and create more innovative menstruation products.
Unconventional Ventures
Hailing from Denmark, Unconventional Ventures invested in pre-seed and seed startups that are led by underrepresented founders, like women, people of colour, immigrants and people from the LGBTQ+ community.
Described as a ‘impact tech investor’ – Unconventional Ventures is backing founders contributing to a better world – including those in female health.
Ada Ventures
Named after Ada Lovelace, Ada Ventures backs visionary founders across Europe. Their portfolio includes companies that are creating innovations for a ‘better human life’ and are specifically interested in climate equity, economic empowerment and healthy aging.
Whilst Ada’s syndicate doesn’t just invest in femtech, they are the perfect partner for any visionary leaders looking to disrupt an industry.
