The Surrey Women’s Entrepreneurship Network (SWEN) is a burgeoning network which fosters innovation and investment-readiness through mentoring programmes, expert business support and links with the local ecosystem of funders, policy makers, investors and other stakeholders.
It is a collaboration between Surrey Research Park, SETsquared Surrey & University of Surrey, aiming to improve opportunities for business growth and innovation.
This includes access to information and support for women entrepreneurs, creating positive impact locally and beyond.
In addition to bringing people together, its focus is on:
- Championing women
- Spotlighting and promoting the contribution of women in the innovation ecosystem, raising the profile of entrepreneurs and companies across all sectors who are underrepresented
- Investor-readiness
- Supporting women to access funding for their businesses and source and prepare for investment raises and grant applications
- Growth opportunities
- Creating opportunities for women to grow their networks, build interest in their ideas and receive expert business advice
The network launched in December 2023 at the Surrey Research Park in Guildford.
The audience heard a keynote by Nathalie Hinds delivered beautifully by Monique Raats on “Three Powerful Words”, before two inspiring panels took to the stage.
The panelists – Tobi Eyinade, Fiona Sweny, Shelley Coleman – Marsh, Susannah McClintock, Dr Alison Callwood and Matthew McCann – brought a wealth of experience and were incredibly generous with their advice and guidance for the women entrepreneurs in the network.
Kathy Slack OBE closed the event with great energy and a clear message to the audience to “feel that buzz in your belly” and keep the momentum going forward.
SWEN Co-founder Kat Mack says, “It was wonderful to see so many people in the room committed to the support and pursuit of women’s entrepreneurship. The community is vibrant and poised! I can’t wait to see the network flourish!”
To apply to join the SWEN network click here.
