A new opportunity arises for aspiring businesswomen in Lanarkshire as they are invited to participate in a free nine-week mentoring programme known as Women Can Grow. The programme, often likened to a “business bootcamp,” aims to assist women in bringing their business ideas to life. With a series of weekly workshops on various essential business topics, personalised support, mentoring for 18 months, networking events, and a sales pitch competition offering three prizes of £500 each, Women Can Grow provides a comprehensive platform for female entrepreneurs.
Participants, aged 18 and above, with either a fully-formed business idea ready for pursuit within six weeks of completing the programme or those trading for less than six months seeking structured support to expand their business, are encouraged to register online by January 10th. The course, organised by Hamilton-based company Inspirent and supported by the Scottish Government’s Pathways business programme, kicks off with a “bootcamp” on January 23rd. Running every Thursday until the end of March, the course covers crucial topics such as market research, brand identity, marketing, pricing strategies, financial management, sales tactics, and risk assessment.
The initiative specifically aims to provide support to individuals who may be distanced from the entrepreneurial world, including single mothers, women from ethnic minorities, and women returning to work after a career hiatus. Liz McCutcheon, the CEO of Inspirent, highlighted the importance of empowering women to transform their business aspirations into reality, expressing enthusiasm for the launch of the Women Can Grow programme in Lanarkshire and Glasgow. She emphasised the practical guidance and hands-on support that participants will receive to establish and develop their businesses with confidence.
Inspirent, with a presence in both Hamilton and Coatbridge, collaborates with councils and organisations across Scotland to nurture businesses and social enterprises by offering expert guidance and practical programmes. With a wealth of experience in supporting over 20,000 startups, the organisation is devoted to fostering the development of women’s skills, boosting their confidence, and enabling them to achieve entrepreneurial success. Free places for the Women Can Grow programme can be secured by visiting their website before the deadline on January 10th.
In conclusion, Women Can Grow presents a vital opportunity for women in Lanarkshire to embark on their entrepreneurial journey with the necessary tools, support, and guidance. This initiative not only aims to bridge the gender gap in entrepreneurship but also strives to empower women from diverse backgrounds to thrive in the business world. By providing tailored assistance and fostering a supportive environment, the programme sets a solid foundation for female entrepreneurs to pursue their business ambitions and contribute to the economic growth of the region.