About Me
My name is Susan Hopkinson, and after years in the investment world, I saw a need for financial advice that speaks to women’s real lives, not just their balance sheets. That realization became the foundation for Hopkinson Ventures.
I founded Hopkinson Ventures in 2022 to bring sound, sophisticated financial guidance to women at my stage of life: women navigating career pivots, retirement planning, divorce, business ownership, and second chapters.
My mission: To help you stress less about money and stay true to your values while maximizing your financial potential.
You won’t find judgment here. Just smart advice, clear strategies, and a listening ear.
This work became deeply personal after my own divorce. I know what it’s like to rebuild. I also know what’s possible on the other side — and I want every woman to experience that clarity and freedom.
Before founding Hopkinson Ventures, I co-founded HigherRing in 2017 with another single mother and long-time friend. Our goal was twofold: provide exceptional support services to startups — and provide living-wage, flexible jobs for women. That spirit of economic empowerment continues to fuel everything I do.
Earlier in my career, I was a fund-of-funds investor in venture capital, guiding institutional clients on private equity strategies. I hold a B.A. from Duke University (yes, I’m a devoted Blue Devil!) and an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
Education
• B.A. Duke University
• M.B.A. University of Chicago Booth
Career
• Founder, Hopkinson Ventures
• Co-founder, HigherRing
• Former venture capital portfolio advisor
Philosophy
Empowering women through clarity, confidence, and purpose.
I’ve lived in San Francisco for over 25 years, where I’ve raised three amazing kids (two now in college) and two dogs, Tucker and Duke.
I love the outdoors and have practiced hot yoga for 25 years. You’ll often find me cold-plunging in the bay, running, or learning the humbling art of golf.
I’m also passionate about giving back. I proudly serve as Chair of the Board for JUMA Ventures, a 25-year-old Bay Area social enterprise dedicated to helping at-risk youth gain work experience, education, and financial capability.