Why We Need More Business Accelerators Just for Women

The world of entrepreneurship can be challenging for anyone, but for women, the obstacles are often uniquely formidable. From accessing funding to navigating biases in negotiations, women face hurdles at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey—women, for example, are statistically more likely to be ousted from their businesses after selling them.?

The reasons why are incredibly complex… but facts are facts. Systemic inequities make it imperative to equip women with the tools and knowledge they need to level the playing field.

The EmpowHer Programme, co-created by Cripps and FFinc, is a great example of what’s possible when women-centric support systems are put in place. Over the course of the programme and three masterclasses, we provided not just practical skills—like crafting the perfect pitch and understanding legal frameworks and protections—but also access to a diverse network of investors and peers.?

While this specific initiative achieved great success, the need for more like it is undeniable... Here's why.

1. Women Face Unique Challenges in Business

The statistics are stark: women-owned businesses receive only 2% of venture capital funding despite representing 39% of small business owners globally, so education tailored to women can be hugely valuable for overcoming that barrier.?

But the challenges extend beyond funding; many women entrepreneurs feel stretched between their personal and professional lives, struggle to find valuable networks, or face implicit biases when negotiating deals. As one EmpowHer participant remarked, “We often feel pressured to join everything, but most networks don’t deliver value. We need spaces where people actually show up for each other.”?

2. The Power of Tailored Knowledge

Knowledge is a great equaliser, but not all knowledge is created equal. Women entrepreneurs and other underrepresented communities often encounter blind spots in areas like funding, legal contracts, and negotiation strategies—blind spots that men may not face as often.?

Victoria Symons’ (Partner and Head of Corporate at UK law firm Cripps) warning about equity positions, maintaining majority under British law and service agreements is a perfect example: women need to be especially cautious about their legal positions within their companies and their boards because, statistically, they’re at higher risk of being pushed out post-sale.

Programmes like EmpowHer create safe spaces where women can ask questions without fear of judgment. As one participant said, “Every day is a school day.” This ethos of continuous learning is vital for staying ahead in a business landscape that’s constantly evolving.

3. Networks that Truly Work

Entrepreneurship can be isolating, but the right network can transform a business—and a mindset. Women-focused accelerators go beyond traditional networking by fostering communities of mutual support. Unlike many networks that feel transactional, these communities prioritise collaboration and growth.

“When women come together in a safe space, it’s not just about sharing experiences—it’s about lifting each other up,” one participant reflected. Women-focused accelerators curate networks that supercharge their members, bringing together people with diverse experiences but shared ambitions.

4. Amplification and Opportunity

A significant challenge for many women entrepreneurs is being heard and taken seriously. Whether it’s pitching to investors or speaking at events, opportunities to showcase their vision can be scarce. Women-focused accelerators often include platforms to amplify their voices, enabling participants to step into the spotlight with confidence.

As another EmpowHer participant noted, “Support isn’t just about emotional encouragement; it’s about action. It’s about creating opportunities that push you to the next level.”

5. Changing the System, One Programme at a Time

The systemic barriers women face in business are well-documented, but solutions are within reach. Accelerators designed specifically for women are more than just a nice-to-have; they’re a necessity. They don’t just help individual entrepreneurs—they challenge the status quo, proving that when women are given the right resources, they can succeed on their terms.

Imagine the impact if such programmes were the norm, not the exception.

Building the Future of Women-Led Business

The need for women-focused accelerators is clear, and the impact of initiatives like EmpowHer proves their value. But this is just the beginning. To truly break down barriers, we need more programmes, more networks, and more support for women entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.

If you’re in a position to create one, consider building a programme like EmpowHer. Together, we can rewrite the rules, break the barriers, and help more women claim their space in the business world.

Thank you to all who contributed to making EmpowHer so special?

To our partners at Cripps—namely Lorna Williams and Victoria Symons—who built the programme with us from the ground up, thank you for your massive commitment to empowering the female entrepreneurs of today and tomorrow.

To Sarah Mee and David Rodriguez Campo of Swoop, and Sarah Weingust and Alex Reed of Mountside Ventures, thank you for carving time out of your busy schedules to lend your expertise—your stories, teachings and generosity of spirit made such a huge difference to the entire experience, which was very much felt in the final session when the cohort delivered their pitches.?

And finally, to our investors and collaborators—James Western, Sofia Paci, Duygu Gozeler Porchet, Riley Hunzeker, Karen Rudich and Jat Kara—thank you for coming along to the final session with thoughtful questions, open minds and hugely valuable feedback.?