Bruntwood SciTech has announced the expansion of its award-winning Female Founders Incubator to Alderley Park. This strategic move aims to address the gender diversity gaps prevalent in the tech and wider entrepreneurship sectors.
In partnership with Lifted Ventures, a venture capital firm dedicated to supporting female-led startups across the UK, this initiative will provide essential resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for 30 early-stage female founders. These founders will benefit from over £20,000 worth of specialist business support during the comprehensive six-month programme. The programme includes tailored mentoring, access to a range of industry events, complimentary workspace in Glasshouse, and extensive networking opportunities designed to foster transformative growth.
Alderley Park in Cheshire, operated by Bruntwood SciTech, offers an ideal location for the incubator. The park is home to over 250 companies and 4,000 professionals working within the realms of science, technology, and innovation. The campus’ highly specialist infrastructure and established innovative community provide an excellent environment for the incubator.
Additionally, Alderley Park hosts the Life Science Accelerator, which supports early-stage life science companies. This reinforces its position as one of the UK’s leading innovation hubs. With its dedicated growth support and vibrant workspace, the park is well-equipped to facilitate the programme.
The Female Founders Incubator has a proven track record in supporting female-led startups. In previous cohorts in Leeds and Manchester, founders secured over £200,000 in capital investment, collectively won 15 awards, and created numerous job roles. The incubator’s mentorship scheme and regular events have introduced founders to legal, finance, funding, and marketing experts, aiding their growth and business development.
Funding for the project is provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which has committed £2.6 billion to local investment by March 2025. Andy Roberts, head of innovation for Bruntwood SciTech, emphasized their commitment to creating a more level playing field for female entrepreneurs by providing the necessary resources and opportunities to succeed and scale. Helen Oldham, co-founder of Lifted Ventures, expressed delight in partnering to expand their support for female founders, combining their expertise in investment readiness education with real investor opportunities.
The programme will commence with a launch event and induction on 1st October, allowing participants to meet the cohort and programme leads. Applications are open until 19th September 2024, with selected participants notified by 24th September 2024.
The launch of the Female Founders Incubator at Alderley Park marks a significant step towards addressing gender diversity gaps in the tech and entrepreneurship sectors, offering substantial support and opportunities for female entrepreneurs.