The Northumbria University Female Founders Programme is tailored for female entrepreneurs just like you! This programme is designed to grow you and our business.
Designed exclusively for female founders within Northumbria, this transformative initiative is your opportunity to grow your business idea. It's more than just a learning experience; it's working with other individuals on a similar business path.
Immerse yourself in tailored workshops, networking sessions and invaluable one-on-one mentoring opportunities. These opportunities have been selected to enable you to grow your entrepreneurial skills, boost your confidence, and equip you with the tools needed for business ownership.
The programme provides dynamic workshops led by our expert mentors. You will be able to apply the knowledge gained to your business. You will also become a member of the Female Founder Networking Group where you can collaborate, share insights and support each other.
At the end, the programme gives you the opportunity to pitch for funding from the Susan Dobson Memorial—a opportunity to gain funding for your business. The Susan Dobson Memorial Fund, recognises and supports women’s entrepreneurial achievements in the North East, for the benefit of the regional economy.
Programme Timetable:
Date Time Session
09/04/2025 14.00-16.00 Introduction to the project and Networking / Incubator Tour
16/04/2025 13.30-16.00 Brandscape
23/04/2025 13.00-16.00 Sales Essentials Part 1: first principles of every sale, at the human level
30/04/2025 14.00-16.00 How to Grow and Scale a Business 1
07/05/2025 13.00-16.00 Sales Essentials Part 2: how to use a sales process that works
14/05/2025 14.00-16.00 Building Business Resilience and Confidence through Networking
21/05/2025 14.00-16.00 How to Grow and Scale a Business 2
28/05/2025 14.00-16.00 How to Grow and Scale a Business 3
04/06/2025 14.00-16.00 Head trash
11/06/2025 13.30-16.30 Everest Challenge
18/06/2025 13.00-16.00 Practise your Pitch
25/06/2025 13.30-16.30 Practise your Pitch
Testimonials from Past Participants:
Renee Fraser-Shepherd Founder of Sloobie Skiwear
“This generous support has provided me with the necessary resources to execute an effective marketing strategy for this ski season. The support is invaluable in boosting awareness and driving conversions for Sloobie, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity."
Imogen Russell Founder of The Little Sleep Company
“The funding I have received from The Susan Dobson Trust has been amazing in helping to develop our offering to the community. It has allowed me to invest in a new member of staff, as well as camera equipment to improve the production quality of our content. All of this has contributed to The Little Sleep Company closing a truly exciting contract with an international retail baby brand!”
Derianna Thomas Founder of Tyneside Irish Dance
“The sessions boosted my confidence and helped me become clear on my goals for the business. My marketing and sales have improved significantly, and I continue to reach into new areas to grow the business that align with my values. The pitch was a great learning experience that has prepared me for the future. The subsequent funding has been instrumental in launching new classes and events ahead of schedule.”
Please note: to be eligible for this scheme you must be a home student based in the North-East of England who identifies as female. It is essential that your business is trading or will be trading within 3-6 months of application. You must also be able to attend 80% of the workshops to be eligible for the programme. Please do not apply if you have received support from the Female Accelerator Programme before.
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