by 16VC

The Investment Readiness Accelerator for Female Founders

Remote. Global. Zero equity. Zero fees. Real investor access.

🚀 What is FUEL?

FUEL is a 6-week, global investment readiness accelerator for female-led startups preparing to raise venture capital. The program is fully remote, with an optional in-person Deal Day hosted in one of Europe’s top startup hubs.

Created by 16VC, FUEL is designed to take founders from “I have a deck” to “we closed the round” — by offering hands-on support, expert guidance, and direct access to early-stage investors.

This is not startup school.

This is your fundraising launchpad.

💡 Why We Built FUEL

Despite being some of the most capable and innovative founders, female-led startups still receive less than 3% of global VC funding.

We’re here to change that — not by teaching founders how to “fit in,” but by giving them the tools, confidence, and connections to own the process and win on their terms.

🧑‍🚀 Who is FUEL For?

FUEL is designed for:

• Tech-enabled startups with scalable business models
• At least one female founder with equal or majority equity
• Startups with a live MVP and early traction