Renata Cooper

Overview

Renata Cooper is a prominent Australian angel investor and founder of Forming Circles Global, an ethical and social investment company established in 2011. She has personally invested over $2 million in Australian and U.S. startups, social enterprises, and causes focused on women, youth, and literacy. Her portfolio includes innovative companies such as iVvy, Good360, Handkrafted, Workible, and Our Little Foxes. Renata is also a member of Scale Investors, a female-focused angel investor network, and serves as a mentor for muru-D, a startup accelerator backed by Telstra. Through Forming Circles, she has supported various initiatives, including the award-winning anti-bullying short film 'A Cautionary Tail' and the multi-award-winning Livvi’s Place playground in Ryde. Renata's investment strategy emphasizes supporting female entrepreneurs and disruptive technologies, aiming to bridge the inequality gap in the tech startup world. She actively seeks globally scalable ideas led by exceptional women, focusing on ventures with the potential for quick exits and significant social impact. Her approach combines financial investment with mentorship and community engagement, reflecting her commitment to fostering innovation and diversity in the startup ecosystem. Renata's dedication to ethical and social investment is evident in her diverse portfolio and the causes she supports. She has been instrumental in amplifying exceptional women with great ideas, contributing to the growth and success of numerous startups. Her involvement in various initiatives underscores her belief in the power of giving and community engagement to create positive change. Through Forming Circles, Renata continues to champion female-led startups, aiming to transform innovative ideas into business realities and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. Her work not only focuses on financial returns but also on creating a ripple effect of positive change in the community, demonstrating her holistic approach to investment and social responsibility. Renata's impact extends beyond her investments, as she actively participates in industry discussions and serves as a regular commentator for leading media titles. Her insights and experiences provide valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the startup ecosystem, particularly for women entrepreneurs. By sharing her journey and the lessons learned, Renata contributes to a broader understanding of the dynamics of angel investing and the importance of diversity in the tech industry. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring investors and entrepreneurs, highlighting the significance of ethical investment practices and the potential for social impact through strategic funding and mentorship. Renata's ongoing commitment to fostering innovation, diversity, and social responsibility continues to shape the landscape of angel investing in Australia and beyond. Through her work with Forming Circles Global and her active participation in various initiatives, she remains a key figure in supporting and empowering female entrepreneurs, driving positive change, and promoting sustainable growth in the startup community. Her approach exemplifies the transformative power of ethical investment and the profound impact it can have on individuals, businesses, and society as a whole.

Investment Focus

• Female-led startups
• Globally scalable ideas
• Exceptional founders
• Quick exit potential
• Significant social impact

Portfolio Companies