the fwrd table: Beauty Founders Raising Capital
An Intimate Dinner for Beauty Founders Actively Raising Capital
The most valuable conversations usually happen around the dinner table.
Join the fwrd group for an intimate evening bringing together five founders of launched beauty brands actively raising a $1M–$5M Seed or Series round with a small group of investors actively deploying capital in the space.
This isn’t a networking event or a pitch competition. It’s an opportunity to get in the room with the right people, receive warm introductions, and have candid conversations about fundraising, growth, scaling, and what investors are actually looking for in today’s market.
Hosted by Amy Kapolnek, Founder of the fwrd group, the evening is intentionally small to encourage meaningful discussion, genuine relationship building, and thoughtful connections that continue long after dinner ends.
With nearly two decades of experience helping build, launch, and scale brands, Amy has worked across both Fortune 500 companies and emerging consumer startups. Today, she serves as a Fractional Executive and Investment Advisor, partnering with founders navigating growth while also advising investors evaluating early-stage consumer opportunities. That unique perspective allows her to facilitate conversations that bridge what founders need with what investors are actually looking for.
Who Should Attend
Founders Who:
Lead a launched indie beauty brand
Are actively raising a $1M–$5M Seed or Series round
Are looking to build genuine, strategic relationships with investors
Value thoughtful conversation over large networking events
This dinner is specifically designed for founders who are actively in-market raising capital. If you’re not currently raising, we’d love to welcome you to a future the fwrd table designed around a different stage or conversation.
Applications are reviewed to ensure each dinner brings together founders at similar stages. Accepted applicants will receive an invitation to purchase their seat.
Why This Dinner Exists
Building meaningful investor relationships rarely happens through a cold pitch email or a quick introduction at a crowded networking event.
the fwrd table was created to foster genuine conversations between a select group of founders and active investors in an intimate setting where trust, insight, and long-term relationships can naturally develop.
Your Ticket Includes
One of only five founder seats at the table
Candid conversations and relationship-building with investors
3-Course Dinner at a 5-Star Restaurant
Family-style appetizers
Choice of entrée and dessert
Choice of beer, wine, soda, and water