An accelerator dedicated to supporting the entrepreneurial journey of 100 female freelancers will return to Greater Manchester in 2024 to help set up and grow new businesses in the region.
Developed by IN4 Group, FreelanceHER 100 is a fully funded six-week business accelerator that empowers aspiring women entrepreneurs to become strong leaders, create powerful companies, and impact and shape the world through their enterprises.
FreelanceHER 100 is based at HOST, MediaCity’s skills and technology headquarters, and offers a flexible online programme that can be easily accessed alongside a daily 9-to-5 job or family commitments.
Now in its third phase, FreelanceHER 100 is open to anyone aged 16 or over who lives in Greater Manchester, identifies as woman or non-binary, and wants to join a supportive community of like-minded women who want to set up their own business, start a side hustle or transition into self-employment.
For example, this could be an opportunity for a new mom to develop a lifestyle business around her family responsibilities.
Expert guidance will be provided by women microbusiness and freelance professionals including Tanya Arturi, former managing director of award-winning PR agency Pazang, author and digital marketing strategist, Allison Angel, serial entrepreneur, Sandrine Beaunol, career consultant and business advisor, and Helen Tebay, coach and mentor with over 20 years of sales experience.
They offer a tailored support program of weekly workshops, networking, peer mentoring and more to a community of potential entrepreneurs looking to learn the ropes of starting their own businesses.
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“Our mission is to continue building and supporting a diverse community of women, equipping them with the confidence, skills and ability to succeed in order to achieve their business growth goals,” said Alana Borkwood, senior program manager at FreelanceHER 100.
“There is a clear demand among women for access to programs beyond freelance practices. We are creating a safe space for aspiring entrepreneurs to explore their start-up ideas, ask questions and learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, whether it’s a side hustle or a full-fledged business venture.”
The successful FreelanceHER program has helped nearly 200 creative women founders grow and scale their companies to date, with 100% of participants in the second batch reporting a positive impact on their business.
“Greater Manchester has an incredible network of support for female entrepreneurs and by working collaboratively across the public and private sector we can have a huge impact across the region and drive economic growth in the North West,” Ms Borkwood added.
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Arturi says: “There is great talent in Greater Manchester and many women choose to freelance because they aren’t restricted to set roles, locations or schedules. But starting your own business can be tough and lonely. This programme provides a community of like-minded people to collaborate and support each other. I love it and it’s why I wish it had been around when I started my freelance career.”
“It’s exciting to think that I can take the skills and knowledge I’ve gained from my side hustle or corporate life and apply them to a scalable business that I can manage myself. What’s more, the program is delivered outside of work hours, allowing me to kick-start my entrepreneurial journey.”
Attendist founder Chi-chi Ekweozor joined the final cohort.
“The FreelanceHER 100 experience has been incredibly empowering and practical. Learning with like-minded people has boosted my enthusiasm and passion and I feel like I’ve been given every reason to take off. I’ve also received invaluable business support,” she said.
The FreelanceHER 100 is funded by the UK Government’s £2.6 billion UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which is committed to equalising across the UK.
Applications are accepted throughout the year. To apply, please visit: https://www.
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