Last year, the government commissioned Alison Rose Deputy CEO, NatWest Holdings and CEO, Commercial & Private Banking to identify areas that will help women to succeed in business.
The Alison Rose Review of Female Entrepreneurship recognised key areas for development. These include access to advice and support for funding and investment, help to manage family care costs and encourage more flexibility for familial responsibilities, increased networking and mentoring opportunities.
Following the report, the government is establishing a new code, Investing in Women which will report annually. Financial institutions will be encouraged to sign up to provide a programme of tailored support which will help women to achieve their goals. The aim is to encourage women to start a business, scale up an existing one or to reach the pinnacles of success in their chosen career.
With ten years’ experience connecting, supporting and empowering female entrepreneurship, Lancashire businesswoman, Coral Horn of Pink Link, was invited to contribute to the report. Pink Link have been at the forefront of providing women with local networking groups, platforms to promote their business and recognising their achievements through the Enterprise Vision Awards.
Horn represented the region at The Rose Review reception in Coutts and Co Bank in London and said: “I was privileged to be asked to take part in the Rose Review. We see the positive impact that networking has on women. It helps them to share and access knowledge, build relationships and gain leads and introductions. I meet women who are driven, ambitious and determined to succeed. My advice is to think BIG and aim for the moon! Together we will find ways to overcome barriers.”
The government replied to The Rose Review stating that the economy is missing out on a significant untapped pool of entrepreneurial talent and the businesses they could create. Robert Jenrick MP, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury was present at the reception. He said: “We’re determined to close the funding gap for female entrepreneurs. Today just 1% of venture capital investment goes to female led businesses.”
