Joanne Wilson, Angel Investor

In 2007 Joanne Wilson made her first angel investment. Since then, her portfolio has grown to include more than 130 companies. She has focused her thesis on female entrepreneurs — a decision that is more practical than philanthropic. Women founders tend to be tenacious and thorough. They ask questions and listen. They are great leaders. She has been and still is a tremendous champion and voice for women. Her female founder thesis led her to create The Women’s Entrepreneurs Festival. Run from 2010-2016, WEF was an incredible combination of inspiration, information and validation. Year after year, the goal was to create an intimate setting and a spirited agenda designed for robust conversation and purposeful connections. It was an incredible six year run and the community it created endures today.