On the lead up to International Women's Day 2023, we are taking a look back at some of the crucial support OxLEP Business has provided for women founders and business leaders across Oxfordshire.
OxLEP has been supporting women in business for some time through its Growth Hub programme of business support. This has included one-to-one advice sessions, masterclasses, and events. Here's a look back at some of the success stories...
The Women in Business Network and Support Programme
Comprising of 9 cohorts of women, starting with the first cohort in October 2021, and the current one beginning on 14th February 2023. The programme was designed specifically for women business owners and leaders who have set up and run their own business in Oxfordshire. Providing a safe and friendly environment where long-lasting, purposeful, and trusted relationships have been built, and to challenge thinking, unlock opportunities, and enhance decision-making abilities.
Oxfordshire Women Leaders Peer to Peer
In 2021, OxLEP Business ran a unique accelerated learning space for Oxfordshire Women Leaders in organisations with a strong social purpose and mission. Catering for CEO/Directors/Chairs of small or medium sized charities and social enterprises in Oxfordshire. With peer coaching from those who understand the journey, and to enable women leaders to meet with others and share their ideas and challenges.
Previous peer group attendee, Tamsin Jewell, former Chief Executive of Elmore Community Services and Chair of the Oxfordshire Anti-Slavery Network, commented that “Annie's Action Learning Set was without doubt the most effective professional support and development opportunity of my CEO years. With deep wisdom and sensitivity, Annie creates safe spaces for vibrant conversations and learning. No matter how complex or draining the issues I brought to the group, I emerged from each session feeling nurtured, calm and hopeful. The coaching and facilitation tools Annie shared along the way were a bonus that enriched my supervision and support of my teams”
Women in Social Enterprise
Spring 2022 saw an opportunity to meet with other women working in the social enterprise and impact space and to hear from a panel of Oxfordshire-based social entrepreneurs. The event explored some of the barriers and challenges facing female entrepreneurs and highlighted the fact that women are leading the way when it comes to the social impact space.
If you could benefit from business advice or support, or want to meet other businesswomen within Oxfordshire, then take a look at OxLEP Business' upcoming Oxfordshire Women in Business Gathering:
Oxfordshire Women in Business Gathering event on 20th April 2023:
OxLEP Business is pleased to be offering its third Women in Business Gathering event. After the success of our last events, we hope to continue bringing together Oxfordshire’s female business founders, leaders, and managers of SMEs.
The Women in Business network provides an environment in which you can be yourself and have meaningful discussions with fellow women in business within Oxfordshire, as well as share experiences.
Watch the highlights of our Women in Business Gathering October 2022
Or, book your place on our next Women In Business Gathering event on 20th April 2023
