Tech Week GR: 'Show Her the Money' screening tells the story of women entrepreneurs

As part of Tech Week Grand Rapids, GVSU co-hosted a screening of the documentary "Show Her the Money" on September 18. The film tells the story of women entrepreneurs and the challenges they face owning and financing their businesses in the world of venture capitalism.

"I'm super excited to see the film, to be hosting and to be a part of the conversation," said GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella while introducing the screening. "This is such an important conversation to be having, and we have to change it in the way we network and support women. We have to change it in the way that they have access to capital, and we have to change it in the way we support their journey once they are on it."

MORE: See a full list of programs showcasing GVSU during Tech Week GR

Following the screening was a panel discussion and Q&A session. Mantella sat on the panel along with Diana Lawson, dean of the Seidman College of Business; Joanne Taylor, producer of "Show Her the Money"; and Camila Noordeloos, general partner at Grand Ventures. Kristina Connolly, executive director at Wells Fargo, facilitated the discussion.

The panelists talked about the challenges of asking for and investing in money as women, and the importance of educational institutions supporting female entrepreneurs. Only 2% of venture capital funding goes to women-owned businesses, according to the film. Yet when a woman receives the same amount of funding as a similarly situated man, the return on investment will be greater.

"It is estimated that by 2030, 60% of the wealth in the United States is going to be controlled by women," said Lawson. "How can we leverage that? What can we do to help build these entrepreneurial networks that we need to have to really support women? Not just women who have had the opportunity to have mentors, but all women who have ideas and want to grow a business in order to sustain their families and have a decent life. We have great opportunities here."

Learn more about the film at showherthemoneymovie.com, and see what else is happening during Tech Week GR at techweekgr.com.