The Question That Left VCs Speechless

Last week at an event with a panel of venture capitalists, a single question silenced the room:

“Why isn’t anyone reimagining these systems?”

The discomfort was palpable. 

The panelists didn’t have an answer – and that’s exactly the problem. 

It was a man in the audience who posed the question, and I appreciated him bringing it up. It was clear the VCs were uncomfortable, and didn’t have an answer for him.

And the man continued, then pointing out that although 2% of venture capital funding goes to ‘diverse founders’ – a term that usually can be interpreted as ‘everyone who isn’t a white male’ – it’s probably actually accurate that about 0.1% actually goes to women. 

Why? 

It’s not these VCs fault, personally. 

It’s the fact that these systems weren’t built to include everyone. They were designed to preserve the status quo. 

This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about missed opportunities. It’s about innovation that hasn’t been able to come to market because of a lack of funding.

How many groundbreaking ideas have been overlooked because they didn’t fit the system’s mold of ‘fundable’?

In other words, how many innovative ideas and opportunities for change and betterment in our society and world have been overlooked because the founder(s) didn’t fit the proper demographic that is in alignment with where funding dollars typically go?

It’s hard to look at the potential that’s been lost to outdated systems that – consciously or unconsciously – prioritize exclusion over innovation.

We believe it’s time to reimagine these systems. The time is not only imminent – it’s here.

At Regal Resilience, we’re not just bridging these gaps, but converging worlds – advocating for and creating a space where underrepresented founders can thrive. And where systemic change isn’t just a buzzword, but a mission.

Ways Regal Resilience Is Working On This:

• Advocating for equity in funding
  

• Creating resources and opportunities for diverse founders
  

• Connecting female and minority founders with a network who is poised, ready, and willing to invest
  

• Building a network of women and allies who support and champion one another through the landscape of business and into greatness and impact 

In these types of conversations, I think it’s important to highlight the difference between equality and equity.

This is one of the best visuals I’ve come across to paint the picture: 

And remember the apple tree bearing fruit unevenly? Let’s play that out a bit more: 

We start with INEQUALITY. Here, there is an obvious difference in the amount of ‘resources’ available to each person on the left and right, to begin with.

Which leads into EQUALITY. But ‘equal’ isn’t even.

Yes, there are two ladders. But one has an opportunity to access all of the resources, still, while the other tries, struggles, and fails. 

This leads to EQUITY. Unlike equality, which gives everyone the same resources, equity recognizes that people's circumstances differ. To achieve equitable outcomes, resources and opportunities must be distributed based on specific needs.

Lastly, the stage of JUSTICE can be implemented—a process of reallocation and redistribution to ensure resources are distributed in a way that provides everyone with a fair and equal starting point. 

This aligns directly with the need to “redesign the system,” 

…the hardest, yet most urgent step. 

This isn’t about taking away from anyone. It’s about expanding the playing field to include more diverse—yet equally qualified and capable—participants. The focus should shift to factors like merit, the quality of ideas, levels of impact and innovation, and data that indicates potential for future success. 

By the way, if you’re curious about the statistics on how successful women are when funded—and how they often outperform male founders—be sure to check out last week’s letter on the Great Wealth Transfer.

Reimagining systems starts with all of us. In a time of revolution, it is vital to challenge the structures that hold us back, and invest in a future that prioritizes innovation, inclusion, and impact.

At Regal Resilience, we are not just dreaming of or imagining a better future, we are actively building it. Our mission is to create the world’s largest community commerce network, empowering women and allies to reclaim the digital economy and unlock opportunities previously withheld.

We aim to completely change businesses, change how wealth is created and distributed online, and change lives through this work. 

This isn’t just another network– it’s a revolution in how wealth, influence, and innovation flow. 

If this is speaking to you, and you know you want to be a part of a network, a community, and a revolution that supports female founders to rise to their greatest potential and levels of impact, wealth, and success – this is the place to be.

We have a limited number of Strategic Partner Licenses that will build out the true foundation of Regal Resilience. If interested, I encourage you to apply for one. This is a game-changing front-row-seat and ticket to build your network, build your business, and build your wealth – all in the company of other powerhouse women. We come up, together.

If this newsletter was thought-provoking, interesting, or inspiring – share it with someone who could benefit. 

We are always aiming to share stories, insights, and information that spur thoughtful and deep conversation about our future.

Or, hit Reply or Comment and let US know what you’re thinking. This is a space to share, to ask questions, to ponder, to spark even bigger ideas and conversations.

With love,
Tanyette

PS – As a strategic partner, you’re tapping into the unique features of the RR Network, including 

• Network & Marketplace Profit-Sharing 

• Purpose-Driven Investment Opportunities

• Patented Multi-Touch Attribution – to capture the true digital value of women’s influence in the digital landscape and economy

• In-Depth Educational Resources

• Community Masterminding 

& More 

If you know you’re missing your ‘home’ where you have the people, support, resources, and more that are aligned with your heart-centered mission and heart-led business, this is the place for you. 

Applications are required as we are being meticulously intentional about curating the best group to be the heartbeat and foundation of this movement and revolution. Apply here. Or get on my calendar for a chat about details, Here!

PPS – I am currently in a Forbes Entrepreneur of Impact competition (winning includes a feature in Forbes, mentorship with Daymond John, and a $25,000 prize to scale our mission) — and I’d be so appreciative for 1 min of your time to get your vote! Thank you so much.

You can vote here: https://entrepreneurofimpact.org/2025/tanyette-colon