Catalyzing an innovation alchemy for female scientists
More women than men are earning PhDs in the biological sciences. Based on estimates that 15 percent to 18 percent of the GNP will be comprised of life science activities over the next two decades, this fact represents a compelling opportunity for female scientists.
Data, however, show these women are not commercializing their technologies. While they have been educated to become scientists, few have been educated as innovators. Without networks, and entrepreneurial education, this growing percentage of the scientifically skilled community will not contribute to U.S. economic competitiveness through innovation.
The Kauffman Foundation is working to reverse this trend and unleash the latent scientific wealth of these female scientists, ensuring that they have the support networks and financial means to start businesses and advance their innovations. As the United States moves into an age increasingly based on ideas, innovation, and human capital, funding by the Kauffman Foundation and others could catalyze an innovation alchemy for female scientists.
Through its support of The Rosalind Franklin Society and the National Academies’ Women Scientists and Innovation workshop, the Kauffman Foundation is funding research and providing education that addresses the obstacles women scientists face.
