Frequently asked questions

Membership registration and checkout have not opened. These answers describe the planned program for review.

When does membership run?

Membership runs January to December. Join January–June at full dues, July–August at half dues; from September, your dues cover the following year. Renewals each September and October.

Can I change my badge?

To move to a higher badge, you pay the difference between the two badges’ annual prices at the dues rate on the day you upgrade—the full difference January–June and September–December, half in July–August. For example, Keysmith to Key Shaper in August costs $75. Your end date stays the same; an upgrade doesn’t renew or extend your membership. A move to a lower badge takes effect at the start of your next membership term; your current benefits continue through your paid term, even if you renew at the lower badge in the fall. Dues are refundable within 14 days of payment; within that time, a move to a lower badge is handled as a refund and a new enrollment at that badge.

Who is a Founding Member?

Paid members and Host Committee members who join Keymakers from its opening until the first Annual Keymakers Gathering are recognized as Founding Members. Founding Member recognition closes at that first Gathering. It is a recognition, not an additional membership or badge, and it carries no separate benefits or privileges.

When does the Circle respond?

Every question receives a first response within two business days. The Circle is not monitored on weekends or holidays.

How are event places allocated?

Women’s Venture Fund may reserve a block of places for a particular event when appropriate. All other places are offered first come, first served among eligible members. No badge receives priority registration unless that benefit is expressly part of its membership, as with Key Shapers’ early access to discounted Gathering registration.

What counts as attendance?

A conversation counts toward an allowance when the member attends. Cancelling at least 24 hours before the start does not count. A no-show does count. When an event is full, waitlisted members are offered open places in the order they joined the waitlist. Watching a recording never counts toward an allowance. Partner-supported forums are regular conversations and count the same way.

When are gifted memberships issued?

Each Key Multiplier membership provides five gifted Keyholder memberships, issued after the Key Multiplier’s 14-day refund period has ended. Each is a full Keyholder membership and ends on the same date as the Key Multiplier membership that made it possible, including when the Key Multiplier joins at half dues in July or August.

What happens if I do not renew?

Memberships end on December 31. A member who has not renewed by then is deactivated: access to the Community Circle, the library and the Keymakers Business Showcase ends. We keep former members on our mailing list for future invitations and offers, and anyone can unsubscribe at any time.

What happens after a serious rule violation?

Women’s Venture Fund may suspend Circle access or end a membership for repeated or serious violations. Memberships that are suspended or ended are not refunded.

Does Keymakers affect lending decisions?

Taking part in Keymakers has no bearing on any Women’s Venture Fund lending decision.

Questions? Contact the Keymakers team.