Techarena Acquires Time to Raise Accelerator Program to Elevate Female-Led Tech Startups

Techarena is announcing its acquisition of the Time to Raise accelerator program & platform. This strategic acquisition aims to further strengthen Time to Raise’s position as one of Europe’s leading accelerator programs dedicated to supporting female entrepreneurs at pre-seed to series A stages.

With this acquisition, Techarena will continue its mission to strengthen the tech and business ecosystem by enhancing its portfolio including large-scale international tech events and innovation & growth-focused programs. Through the integration of Time to Raise’s specialized accelerator program and platform, Techarena aims to contribute to fostering diversity and inclusion in the tech industry by facilitating fundraising efforts and access to capital for female entrepreneurs.

By collaborating with top international venture capital firms and leveraging their expertise, Time to Raise aims to make significant strides in increasing the percentage of venture capital funding directed toward female-led startups, a number that has not moved or improved since 1946 and was as low as 2% in 2023.

“We are very excited to welcome Time to Raise to The Techarena family.”, said Omid Ekhlasi, CEO of Techarena. “We are passionate about enabling growth and creating new opportunities, and Time to Raise aligns perfectly with our vision. By combining our strengths, we will amplify our efforts to support and elevate female entrepreneurs, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and dynamic tech ecosystem.”

Backed up by the stats

Data shows that women-led companies deliver up to 42% higher return on investments and generate more revenue per invested dollar. The Time to Raise program is well-positioned to become a vital international player by providing valuable guidance and support to participants. This collaboration ensures that startups receive tailored advice and access to critical funding networks, enhancing their chances of success.

“Joining forces with Techarena is a significant step forward for Time to Raise”, said Mikaela Larsell Ayesa, Director of Time to Raise. “Their expertise within the tech and business ecosystem, extensive network, and experience in organizing world-class tech events will greatly enhance our program’s reach and impact. Together, we will continue to break down barriers and create more opportunities for female-led tech startups in Europe and globally.”

With the acquisition, Techarena will expand the Time to Raise program’s reach, increase its resources, and strengthen the accelerator’s ability to drive funding but also leverage Techarena’s international platform to showcase the incredible talent and potential within the female-led tech startup community.

A mix of international VCs

Amongst the VC firms participating in the fall cohort of the program are the American funds NEA and Sequoia Scout, French funds Daphni and Ventech, Finnish fund Vendep, Swedish funds Northzone, Pale Blue Dot, and more.

The application process for Time to Raise cohort 6 is open until the 18th of September. For more information about Techarena and Time to Raise accelerator program, please visit techarenan.com and timetoraise.co.