Women own 39 percent of all businesses in the US, but female entrepreneurs get only two percent of venture funding. What's causing this gap? Dana Kanze shares research suggesting that it might be the types of questions start-up founders get asked when they're invited to pitch. Whether you're starting a new business or just having a conversation, learn how to spot the kinds of questions you're being asked -- and how to respond more effectively.

The real reason female entrepreneurs get less funding

Most female founders receive prevention-focused questions about risk, while male founders get promotion-focused questions about potential. Research found that women own nearly 40 percent of businesses in the US but secure only two percent of venture funding. Analyzing startup pitch sessions, the study revealed that the way investors frame questions can deeply influence fundraising outcomes. By recognizing and shifting how these questions are posed and answered, entrepreneurs and investors can disrupt a cycle of implicit bias.

Hidden Bias In Investor Questions Fuels Startup Gender Gap

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Dana Kanze: The real reason female entrepreneurs get less funding