- Fintech Is Femme
- Posts
- 🤑 Unlock Funding Equality
🤑 Unlock Funding Equality
3 Powerful Steps to Close the Funding Gap, Goldman Sachs’ Take on a Kamala Harris Economy, and SpringFour’s Big Acquisition
Hi, fintech fam! đź’ś
I’m in full-on prep mode for the Fintech Is Femme Creator Summit happening this Monday!
While I absolutely love bringing these events together — especially that magic moment when we’re all in the same room, sharing energy and insights — I’ve got to be real with you… pulling this off with just a two-person team is intense!
Ever feel like you’re just barely keeping up? That’s me right now.
But I know it’ll be 100% worth it. We’ve crafted a day full of epic insights, genuine networking, and opportunities to level up financially.
This summit is all about owning your story and turning your passions into a thriving business.
If you haven’t snagged your ticket yet, now’s the time! Join us for a day that will inspire you to take your journey to the next level. Secure your spot here.
See you Monday!
Now, let's dive into some fintech news!
UPGRADE TO BECOME A FINTECH FEMINIST
Discover the difference between mainstream media and Fintech Is Femme. Every week, I deliver the latest fintech news without the fluff, profiles of trailblazing women in the industry, and insightful analysis to keep you ahead of the curve.
For just $50, becoming a premium member means you’re not just supporting female-led journalism—you’re fueling a movement. Your support transforms Fintech Is Femme from a newsletter into a thriving media empire and community where women connect, learn, and uplift one another.
#TRENDING
What’s Up In Fintech
Every Thursday, I deliver the hottest fintech news and trends, keeping you updated with the most essential insights impacting the industry.
#1 Goldman Sachs Says Kamala Harris Is Better For The Economy
As the 2024 U.S. election looms, it’s not just about who wins but how the outcome could shape the economy and impact fintech.
Goldman Sachs predicts more substantial economic growth if Vice President Kamala Harris takes the helm compared to what we might see with Donald Trump back in office. What are the implications for fintech? Pretty big.
A Democratic sweep could lead to a GDP boost over the next two years, fueled by new spending, tax credits for the middle class, and more robust job growth—even with higher corporate taxes in play.
Conversely, a Trump win might slow growth due to increased tariffs and tighter immigration policies.
Why should fintech care?
Economic policy can either supercharge fintech or throw up roadblocks.
Fintech companies thrive on innovation, spending power, and global collaboration, making the stakes especially high.
Under Harris, a stronger labor market and growing economy would likely drive demand for digital financial services. In contrast, Trump’s tariffs and immigration policies could limit fintech's ability to innovate and expand globally.
Fintech’s success depends on talent, partnerships, and a healthy economy.
Here’s how each outcome could play out:
Job growth: Harris could mean 10,000 more jobs per month compared to a divided government, and 30,000 more than under Trump. That’s more people with disposable income, which translates to increased demand for fintech services like digital banking and wealth management.
Middle-class tax relief: Expanded tax credits would give consumers more spending power, driving usage of personal finance apps and digital platforms.
Global trade: Harris’s policies could help fintech firms avoid the damaging effects of tariffs that could arise under Trump, particularly on imports from China, Mexico, and the EU—markets crucial to cross-border services.
However, if Trump wins:
Tariff-related inflation: Higher tariffs would raise costs, hitting fintech companies that rely on global supply chains.
Restricted immigration: Tighter immigration would shrink the talent pool in tech hubs like Silicon Valley, slowing down innovation in fintech.
Zooming Out: Fintech's Role in the Economy
Fintech is poised to shape how Americans manage their money, and the election outcome will influence how well it can deliver on that promise:
Economic growth + fintech demand: Harris’s policies could boost job growth and middle-class spending, creating a fertile ground for fintech companies to expand.
A Trump challenge: Higher tariffs and restricted immigration could slow fintech’s global reach and access to top-tier talent, two essential factors for innovation in the industry.
The fintech sector should be watching this election closely. The results will influence strategic decisions for years to come. Under Harris, the industry could thrive in an environment that fosters innovation and inclusion. A Trump win, however, could lead to slower growth, fewer global collaborations, and challenges with talent acquisition.
The election isn’t just a political event for fintech—it’s a turning point for the industry's future. How will companies adapt to the shifting landscape? Time will tell.
#2 Bridging the Global Fintech Funding Divide
A recent report from the World Economic Forum and McKinsey illuminates a growing issue in the fintech world: the global disparity in venture capital (VC) funding.
While fintech continues to be one of the most well-funded sectors overall, the flow of capital is far from even—especially in regions like Latin America, Africa, and MENA.
What’s the Problem?
Fintech might be booming globally, but the money isn't being spread around equally.
Emerging regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and MENA receive only about 10% of global VC fintech funding despite being poised to generate 15% of fintech revenue by 2028. So, why aren’t they getting more attention?
Why this matters
Fintech innovation is key to increasing financial inclusion and strengthening economies, especially in historically underserved regions.
Closing this funding gap could unlock fintech’s full potential in these areas, allowing it to scale up, drive economic growth, and support digital inclusion on a much larger scale.
The uneven distribution of VC funding isn’t just a regional problem—it’s a global one.
Innovation is held back when regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America can’t access the capital they need.
It limits the development of financial systems that could benefit millions of people. Fintech can have the most transformative impact in these places, but without proper funding, the growth potential is stuck in neutral.
The fix?
The report points to several strategies for closing the funding gap, including:
Boosting local investment: More homegrown investment can help fintechs in emerging regions find their footing.
Better regulatory frameworks: Policies that make it easier for fintechs to operate can attract more VC dollars.
Strengthening digital infrastructure: Good infrastructure is a game-changer for any fintech, and developing it should be a priority.
Fintech has the potential to drive massive changes in financial inclusion, but it won’t happen if underserved regions are left behind. If investors and governments focus on bridging the gap, fintech could become a powerful tool for boosting global economic resilience.
What to watch: As fintech continues to grow, its future will depend on how well investment strategies can adapt to support underfunded regions. The more attention and capital it receives, the more innovative and inclusive the global fintech ecosystem can become.
The bottom line? Closing this gap is crucial for unlocking fintech’s true potential, especially in regions that need it most.
#3 SpringFour Acquired by C&R Software: A Big Shift For Financial Health
SpringFour Founder & CEO Rochelle Nawrocki Gorey
SpringFour, a woman-founded company focused on financial health, has been acquired by C&R Software, part of Constellation Software.
This move is expected to help SpringFour expand its reach and continue supporting individuals and families with financial tools and resources.
So, what’s the deal here?
C&R Software’s acquisition of SpringFour brings more resources and opportunities to a company making strides in the financial health space.
SpringFour will keep its name, and Rochelle Nawrocki Gorey, its founder and CEO, will still lead the charge. This acquisition connects SpringFour with a more extensive network, allowing them to scale their services and help more people manage their finances.
Why it matters
SpringFour joining forces with an $80 billion software company highlights how important financial health has become in the fintech world.
With major clients like Capital One and M&T Bank, SpringFour is already making an impact, providing over 2 million financial health referrals in just one quarter.
Now, with C&R’s support, they’ll be able to reach even more people and help even more families get the resources they need.
Also, as Rochelle shared on LinkedIn (to help us all understand the magnitude of this):
“We are women founded and led.
We are an all-women team.
We are a social impact, first-of-its-kind company.
We never charge consumers.
We never raised capital.
We work with some of the biggest names in the industry to deliver financial health referrals to millions of individuals each year.
Since day one, we have known this: people need and deserve access to resources that help them find their way out of financial hardship.”
Fintech’s Role in Financial Health
Fintech has been evolving beyond apps and payment services.
More companies are stepping up to help people with their overall financial well-being, and SpringFour is a perfect example of that shift.
They connect people with real-world resources, from rental assistance to financial counseling, through a network of 23,000 local services. It’s about addressing the bigger picture, not just helping people make payments.
Building a support network: Through partnerships with companies like Self Financial, SpringFour helps customers—especially those with lower credit scores—find support for financial challenges. Food savings, rent help, and financial advice are all part of the deal.
Filling a crucial gap: There’s a huge demand for financial guidance, but most people don’t know where to start—SpringFour steps in here, offering the tools and connections that help consumers find the support they need.
SpringFour’s acquisition is part of a bigger trend in fintech.
More companies are realizing that helping customers manage their finances goes beyond apps and payments—it’s about building trust by providing real, practical help. SpringFour’s work shows how fintech can directly impact people’s lives while also building stronger relationships with customers.
What to watch: As SpringFour scales with C&R’s backing, expect its role in the financial health space to grow even further. With tools like their S4direct product, SpringFour will likely expand its reach, helping more underserved communities access critical economic resources.
This move might also inspire more fintech companies to focus on financial inclusion and wellness.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Join us every Thursday to stay updated on the top fintech events each week! These events are a great way to network, learn, and connect with our fintech community. Let's fill our calendars with these awesome events - I would love to see you there!
MONDAY 9/9
[NYC] ​The FINTECH IS FEMME CREATOR SUMMIT
What if one event could change everything for you—or someone you believe in?
Maybe you've already made strides in your career—but what if you could help someone else level up?
The Fintech Is Femme Creator Summit isn’t just another event—it’s a game-changer.
It’s where the brightest minds in fintech, creators reshaping industries, and bold visionaries come together to embrace the future.
Do you know someone with untapped potential? Maybe a young professional, a creative mind, or a friend with big ideas waiting for their breakthrough? This is their chance.
✨ Emerging talent ready to level up
✨ Aspiring entrepreneurs needing community and visibility
✨ Creative minds eager to connect with leaders in fintech
Share this with someone who needs that boost—or better yet, come with them for your own inspiration.
Tickets are going fast. Grab yours (or theirs!) now before it’s too late. 🚀
Let’s lift each other up.
WEDNESDAY 9/11
​[College Park, Maryland] 4tee Acres x Black Tech Matters CBC Charity Golf Event
4tee Acres is teaming up with PGA Reach, NFL Alumni, Fintech Is Femme, and the Boris Henson Foundation for a day of golf, celebrities, and community impact at the University of Maryland Golf Course. Sponsored by Carol’s Daughter, the event will feature NFL players, Congressional Black Caucus personalities, and more, all coming together to support important causes.
What’s happening:
Expect 18 holes of golf, breakfast, fireside chats, panels, and a special Black Tech Matters Luncheon. Proceeds will help HBCU students and veterans with golf clinics, clothes, and clubs.
This event is about more than golf—it promotes equity and financial inclusion.
Black Tech Matters, the first PAC founded by fintech founder Angel Rich, is a key partner. They recently hosted a Night of Action that drew over 22,000 viewers and pushed initiatives like Tech4Kamala and Creatives4Kamala, aimed at supporting VP Kamala Harris.
Join us by saving your spot here.
FRIDAY 9/20
​[NEW YORK] EMERALD SUMMIT: Funding Climate Startups
Join a community of executive women, climate tech innovators, and impact investors at the Emerald Summit 2024 on September 20th.
This year, we're focused on boosting venture capital and project finance for women-led climate startups in sustainability, inclusion, education, and tech.
Can’t wait to see you there! RSVP for the free event here.
SPONSORED BY
Is your business making over $200K in revenue per year?
Compare 2024's top online business lenders. Secure and fast with no impact to your credit score. With over 12,000 small businesses funded, we know how to make lenders compete to give you the best offer. See your loan options in minutes, and get funding as fast as 24 hours. Strongest network coverage for those who have been in business for over 2 years with over $200K in annual revenue. Fuel your business today!
FINTUNES
Can I listen to anything else but this album? Not really.
Here are a few more ways I can help you:
đź“° Share this newsletter with a friend and start growing your network.
đź”— Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on female leadership.
🤝 Grow your business through content & community by partnering with me.
đź“Ł Promote yourself to 50,000 subscribers by sponsoring this newsletter.
🎤 Host an epic event by booking me as a speaker, moderator, or emcee.
đź“š Increase your expertise by pre-ordering your copy of my book, Fintech Feminists: Increasing Inclusion, Redefining Innovation, and Changing the Future for Women Around the World.
That’s all for now! See you Tuesday!
Love,
Nicole đź’ś