IN4 Group’s FreelanceHER 100, an accelerator that helps launch and grow new businesses in Greater Manchester, will return in 2024 to support the entrepreneurial ambitions of 100 women freelancers. The fully-funded, six-week business accelerator is aimed at empowering aspiring women entrepreneurs to become strong leaders, shape the world through their companies and create powerful enterprises. FreelanceHER 100, which is based at HOST in MediaCity, offers a flexible online programme that participants can easily access alongside their daily work and family commitments. The female micro-businesses and freelance professionals who will deliver expert mentoring include Tanya Arturi, author and digital marketing strategist; Allison Angel, a serial entrepreneur; Sandrine Beaunol, a career consultant and business adviser; and Helen Tebay, a coach and mentor with over 20 years of sales experience.
Open to any woman or non-binary person in Greater Manchester aged 16 or over, FreelanceHER 100 offers a supportive community for those looking to launch their own business, side hustle, or move into self-employment, regardless of their backgrounds. Alana Borkwood, senior programmes manager for FreelanceHER 100, said that the “mission is to continue building and supporting a diverse community of women to meet their business growth ambitions, providing them with the confidence, skills, and ability to succeed.” The successful FreelanceHER programme has already supported almost 200 creative female founders in scaling their businesses, with 100% of participants from the second cohort observing a positive impact on their businesses. Recruitment is open all year, and interested applicants can apply at https://www.hostsalford.com/programmes/freelanceher-100/.
The £2.6bn UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the UK government’s commitment to levelling up all parts of the country, funds FreelanceHER 100. Chi-chi Ekweozor, founder of Attendist, recommends FreelanceHER 100, saying: “The FreelanceHER 100 experience is both hugely empowering and pragmatically practical. Learning with like-minded individuals means the enthusiasm and passion stays high, and it really feels like you are being given every reason to fly! There is some really valuable business support to be had as well.” She reminds the community that when preparing for investment, brand is critical.
