Supporting Women Entrepreneurs: University of Portsmouth’s Initiative for International Women’s Day
In celebration of International Women’s Day, the University of Portsmouth’s Female Entrepreneurs Network (FEN) is organizing a series of motivational workshops designed to empower women entrepreneurs in the UK. This initiative highlights the university’s commitment to fostering gender equality and supporting the growth of women-led businesses across the country.
For aspiring women entrepreneurs and current business owners, these workshops present valuable opportunities to acquire skills, connect with industry experts, and expand their professional networks. The event, titled “Aspire Together: Accelerating Women’s Entrepreneurship in Portsmouth”, takes place on Friday, 7 March, at the University Learning Centre.
Enhancing Women’s Entrepreneurship through Practical Workshops
The workshops aim to equip women entrepreneurs with essential tools to navigate the competitive business landscape. Topics covered include engaging customers via social media, preparing for funding bids, and defining clear business visions, missions, and values. Each session is led by industry specialists and experienced entrepreneurs, providing attendees with both theoretical knowledge and practical insights.
Workshops Facilitated by Experts
- Engaging Your Customers on Social Media: Learn strategies to build a compelling online presence that attracts and retains customers.
- Getting Your Business Ready for Funding Bids: Understand how to prepare effective grant applications and attract investment.
- Defining Your Vision, Mission, and Values: Clarify your business purpose and set a strong foundation for sustainable growth.
Participation in these sessions can be pivotal for women entrepreneurs seeking to accelerate their business development and gain confidence in their initiatives. The event’s interactive nature encourages networking and peer-to-peer support.
The Significance of International Women’s Day and Gender Equality
International Women’s Day serves as a global platform to promote gender equality and celebrate the achievements of women in various sectors. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action”, underscores the importance of taking concrete steps to close gender gaps and empower women across all spheres of life.
The University of Portsmouth’s initiative aligns with this theme by fostering an environment where women entrepreneurs can thrive and lead. By supporting the development of women-led businesses, the university contributes to creating a more inclusive and equitable economy.
The Role of the Female Entrepreneurs Network at the University of Portsmouth
Founded in 2014, the Female Entrepreneurs Network has a long history of supporting women in business. It offers a vibrant community that promotes entrepreneurship through networking events, guest speaker sessions, and mentorship opportunities. This year’s International Women’s Day workshop reinforces FEN’s mission to inspire and empower women to take bold steps in their entrepreneurial journeys.
The event is spearheaded by Amy Doyle, founder of FEN, along with Courtney Elkins, Network Lead at Portsmouth’s Faculty of Business and Law. Their leadership ensures that the workshops address real-world challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and provide actionable strategies for success.
Opportunities for Networking and Community Building
Beyond skill development, the workshops offer invaluable networking opportunities. Attendees can connect with fellow entrepreneurs, local business owners, industry professionals, and potential collaborators. Building such a community is essential for sustainable growth, knowledge exchange, and creating a support system for women in business.
Participants are encouraged to explore partnerships, share experiences, and learn from the success stories of others. These relationships often lead to future collaborations and mentorship opportunities, fostering a resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem.
How to Get Involved and Attend
Interested women entrepreneurs can purchase tickets for the event via the Eventbrite page. The registration process is straightforward and provides access to all workshops and networking sessions.
Attendance offers a chance to gain practical knowledge, meet potential partners, and contribute to the broader movement for gender equality in entrepreneurship.
Why Support Women Entrepreneurs?
Research indicates that women-led businesses are vital contributors to economic growth and innovation. Supporting women entrepreneurs helps diversify markets, introduce new perspectives, and create more inclusive workplaces. Events like those organized by the University of Portsmouth play a crucial role in overcoming barriers faced by women in business, such as access to finance, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Encouraging women to pursue entrepreneurship not only benefits individual careers but also promotes societal progress towards equality and sustainability.
Next Steps and Additional Resources
If you are an aspiring or established woman entrepreneur looking to expand your skills and network, participating in this event is a beneficial step forward. Furthermore, exploring resources such as the University’s business support services and local entrepreneurial hubs can provide ongoing assistance.
For more information on the Female Entrepreneurs Network and upcoming events, visit the University of Portsmouth’s FEN page.
Conclusion
Celebrating International Women’s Day through targeted workshops and community support underscores the importance of fostering women’s entrepreneurship. The University of Portsmouth’s efforts exemplify how academic institutions can lead the charge in empowering women, creating opportunities for success, and building more inclusive economic landscapes.
Take this opportunity to join the event, learn new skills, and connect with like-minded women entrepreneurs. Supporting each other is key to accelerating progress and shaping a future where women excel in business and beyond.
For those interested in taking the next step, don’t forget to explore further programs and resources offered by the University of Portsmouth and its partner organizations.
Submit your application today or reach out for more information about how you can become part of this empowering initiative.
