Fife Women Mean Business Launched

New initiative to support growth in female-led businesses                                               

An innovative business development programme for Fife’s women entrepreneurs was launched this week (Monday 29th October) by Business Gateway Fife.  Women from all over Fife who run their own businesses turned up to hear more about the special project to help them develop their business success. Over the past decade the start-up levels of business by women in Fife have increased to 40%. This programme has been devised by a specialist in women’s enterprise policy and enterprise policy adviser to UK government.

Pamela Caira, Board member of Business Gateway Fife, said, “It is clear from the numbers of women in Fife starting a business that there is a lively interest in enterprise, but very few of these companies develop and grow.  Women need and want the support of experts who understand business, but particularly understand the challenges for women in business.  This free programme is tailored exactly for women and will be an excellent opportunity for them to be inspired, advised and then to take control of their businesses.”

The programme is funded by Fife Council and around 20 women with business interests ranging from plant hire, PR, cottages to let, financial services, photographers, business coaches and energy consultants attended. The selected candidates will begin the programme in November  attending six full day workshops, access to a specialist Business Gateway advisor, and a broad range of contacts and networking.

FACTS ABOUT WOMEN IN BUSINESS:

• 2 out of 3 women in business have ambitions to grow - research indicates that in Scotland this number could be higher

• Women with children are particularly ambitious so they are a vital part of the Fife economy.

 • 40% of new start-up businesses in Fife are run by women