Female Founders Incubator launches at Alderley Park

The Female Founders Incubator, launched by Bruntwood SciTech to support gender diversity gaps in entrepreuneurships in the tech sector, has expanded to the Alderley Park life sciences and technology campus in Cheshire.

Delivered in partnership with Lifted Ventures, the initiative will provide essential resources, mentorship and networking opportunities for women leading early-stage start-ups, as well as over £20,000 of specialist business support. The six-month programme for 30 female founders includes tailored mentoring, access to a range of industry events, complimentary workspace in Glasshouse, and extensive networking opportunities designed to foster transformative growth. Participants will also benefit from personalised support from industry leaders and experts, ensuring they have the tools and guidance necessary for success.

Andy Roberts, Head of Innovation for Bruntwood SciTech, said:

“We are committed to creating a more level playing field for female entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary resources, support and opportunities to succeed and scale. Our previous cohorts in Leeds and Manchester have demonstrated the profound impact of this initiative.

“By expanding the Female Founders Incubator to Alderley Park, which already hosts Bruntwood SciTech’s Life Science Accelerator programme, we aim to further enhance the vibrant innovation ecosystem here and drive growth across the region.”

Helen Oldham, Co-Founder of Lifted Ventures said

“We are delighted to be working with Bruntwood SciTech to expand their female founder support. Our contribution will combine our deep knowledge and expertise in investment readiness education for female founders with the opportunity to present to real investors.”

The project is being funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, aligning with Bruntwood SciTech’s commitment to driving growth and knowledge sharing in the region. The UK Shared Prosperity Fund has committed £2.6 billion to local investment by March 2025.

Previous cohorts in Leeds and Manchester have seen participants secure over £200,000 in capital investment, collectively won 15 awards, facilitated 90 new business introductions through the partnership network, and created numerous new job roles. Additionally, several founders successfully completed funding rounds through the help of the Incubator, collectively securing up to £1 million to drive their businesses forward.