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Beam Founders

Empowering and supporting women founders and their businesses.

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Description

Beam (formerly known as The Beam Network or Beams) is an early-stage venture capital firm and founder community based in Berlin, Germany. It acts as a specialized venture builder and accelerator for female-led or gender-diverse founding teams. They often partner with founders at the "Idea Phase" to help structure the initial business model before a formal raise.
  • Method: Founders can apply through a Direct Pitch Form on their website or via platforms like F6S.
  • Focus: They look for "diverse-led" teams (at least one female or non-binary founder in a decision-making role) building scalable tech solutions.
  • Requirements: A pitch deck highlighting the problem, the tech-driven solution, and the team's unique "unfair advantage."
  • 2026 Cohorts: While they do not use a strict batch model, they host periodic "Selection Days." The first major review cycle for 2026 is expected to conclude in late February 2026.

Eligibility

  • Diversity Requirement: Must have at least one female or non-binary founder.
  • Sector: Industry agnostic, but with a strong preference for SaaS, Fintech, HealthTech, and ClimateTech.
  • Geography: Primarily Europe (with a heavy focus on the DACH region: Germany, Austria, Switzerland), but they consider international teams looking to enter the European market.

Process

  1. Screening: Internal review of the pitch deck and team background.
  2. Chemistry Call: A first meeting to assess alignment with Beam's values and mission.
  3. Venture Building / Diligence: A deeper dive into the business model, often involving active workshops to refine the strategy.
  4. Investment Committee: Final pitch to the Beam partners.
  5. Ongoing Support: Post-investment, founders join the "Beam Community," gaining access to regular peer-to-peer sessions and specialized mentors.

What an Applicant can Obtain

  • Capital: Access to early-stage funding to bridge the gap to a Series A.
  • Community: Membership in a curated network of 100+ diverse founders.
  • Expertise: Hands-on support in hiring, fundraising strategy, and go-to-market execution.
  • Visibility: Opportunities to showcase the startup at Beam-hosted events and partner conferences like Slush or Bits & Pretzels.