Astia is a curated, global community of experts committed to the success of world class women-led, high-growth startups. For over 14 years the 3000+ members of Astia's connected community have provided startups with access to capital, business networks, and opportunities to become dominant market players. The organization is a non-profit with distinct focus and mission.

How does Astia fulfill its mission?
Astia startups benefit from a global, connected community of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders. Through a proprietary and proven process and program, Astia Advisors are paired with startups to gain access to the right expertise at the right time. The Astia model of engagement ensures for an entrepreneur-centric approach, a give-back values alignment, exceptional commitment by individuals who volunteer their time and expertise, and a clear and distinct alignment with the success of the startups.

In 2013, Astia is vastly expanding reach by a) decentralizing the internationally-recognized programming via Astia Access to reach 10x the number of promising women-led start-ups; and b) amplifying our access to capital via Astia Angel and Astia Pitch Days.

What does an Astia startup look like?
Astia seeks visionary entrepreneurs from around the world with game-changing start-ups who are ready to become market-leading businesses. We are stage agnostic. Reflecting the community's expertise, Astia will consider companies within the sectors of high tech, life science, clean tech, consumer tech, and health and wellness. At a minimum, startups must have at least one woman in a leadership role (at C level) or in significant position of equity and influence.  

How can I get involved?
Industry Experts: If you are an industry expert with 15+ years of experience, a serial entrepreneur, or an investor, please take a moment to complete the Astia Advisor Survey and we will get you engaged as an Astia Advisor. Once involved, do make sure to add your role as an Astia Advisor to your bio, most especially on your LinkedIn profile.

Entrepreneurs: Astia is a community and our best startups have come to us via that community. Startups are encouraged to seek out an introduction whenever possible. If you don't know an Astia community member, email startups@astia.org.

Investors: Join us for Astia Pitch Days. Pitch Day is an opportunity to check out Astia's robust international pipeline of companies that have been pre-qualified as investor-ready by the Astia community.

Sponsors: If your firm would like to support Astia's mission or join Astia's global community, please contact me - I would love to hear from you.  Astia is proud to have the support of many of the world's strongest brands and corporate leaders.  (Check out this month's sponsor spotlight to see some of the long-standing sponsors of Astia!)    

Keep the questions and ideas coming. I continue to marvel at all that you do for Astia. As you have heard me say over and again - Astia is a community, Astia is you!  

Thank you all so very much!  

Cheers,

Sharon