On 26 November, SETsquared Bristol ran a panel discussion to launch a free Back Her Business pre-incubation programme, in collaboration with NatWest, to help women-formed businesses (including tech, tech enabled and non-tech businesses) access world class business support.

Paul Forster, Community Manager at SETsquared, introduced the Back Her Business initiative, citing the Alison Rose Review of Female Entrepreneurship, which shows that men received 99% of total funds invested in 2018, and women only 1%. Through projects like Back Her Business, we’re aiming to improve this figure by helping women entrepreneurs access funding and business support.

The event was chaired by Monika Radclyffe, SETsquared Bristol Director, and featured a diverse and inspirational group of women business leaders: Charmaine Lawrence of Mogul Minded Group, Chloe Meineck of Music Memory Box and Jess Saumarez of Hedira. The entrepreneurs shared insights into their own journeys, and what it takes to set up and run your own business.

The panellists mentioned that access to experienced mentors, as well as being part of a supportive community through programmes such as SETsquared or the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator, were instrumental in gaining the tools and confidence to launch and grow their businesses, as well as sourcing opportunities.

Some of the biggest challenges of setting up a business was overall resilience, perseverance and working out what the priorities are. Accessing finance as a woman founder in Bristol can be particularly challenging, which is why access to entrepreneurial networks and support with an optional crowdfunding campaign is a key part of this programme.

SETsquared Bristol is delighted to be delivering NatWest’s Back Her Business initiative, to allow 18 women formed businesses to benefit from their world class business support for one year, including access to workshops, advisors and mentors. The programme will conclude with a showcase and pitching event in Autumn 2020.

Complete the application form to apply by 31 January 2020

Photography by Amy Grace Price

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