A line-up of the UK’s most dynamic female entrepreneurs has been unveiled by Small Business Britain, a number of whom are running children’s focused businesses. The 100 women who run some of the UK’s most impressive businesses are being showcased to highlight the contribution to society, the economy and communities, that female founders make across the UK.
The f:Entrepreneur campaign was launched in 2017 to raise greater awareness of the impact of female business owners across the country. It also helps provide inspiration and role models to the wider small business community. Delivered by Small Business Britain – the leading champion of small businesses in the UK – the campaign offers a host of events, training and networking opportunities to boost skills, capability and confidence.
Now in its sixth year, the campaign reflects how female entrepreneurs continue to thrive in the UK, despite the challenges, with many scaling or starting new ventures.
Indeed, research undertaken by the campaign last year shows a strong entrepreneurial drive among women in these tough economic times. Almost one-fifth (17%) of women in the UK reported considering starting their own businesses, with almost half (48%) citing a desire for more money. Meanwhile, 46% want the freedom of being their own boss.
From adaptive fashion designers to female-run private security companies, social enterprise leaders and ethical product manufacturers, this year’s f:Entrepreneur ‘#ialso100’ campaign celebrates the growing tide of inspirational, multi-achieving female entrepreneurs leading purpose-driven businesses alongside a roster of other responsibilities such as volunteering, mentoring and community support.
Among this year’s 100 line-up is Rhiannon Lewis, founder of Jacobs Boutique xo (pictured). Lewis’s business offers handmade clothing and accessories for babies, kids and adults as well as embroidery and vinyl printing services. Also, Tessa Robinson, founder of Club Hub, the largest children’s activities directory in the UK, with a monthly audience of 300,000 visitors. And Angela Johnson, founder of Mrs Bun the Baker Cookery School, which teaches children how to cook.
Many of the businesses in this year’s campaign also demonstrate a commitment to championing diversity and inclusion, as well as promoting sustainability.
Elsewhere, the line-up features Ruby Blaken, founder of Second Snuggle, which recycles and rehomes children’s and maternity clothing across the UK. Plus, Marsha Powell. Powell is the co-founder of BelEve UK, a girl-focused charity working with 8 to 21-year-olds to empower young women to maximize their potential and celebrate achievements.
Commenting on this year’s campaign is Michelle Ovens CBE, founder of Small Business Britain. “The UK is absolutely full of phenomenal female entrepreneurs who are doing incredible things that inspire change, often around tackling some of society’s biggest issues.
“It is so vital that we give greater recognition to these trailblazing women and the powerful contribution they make to society and the economy. Times are incredibly hard for many business owners, but inspiring entrepreneurs like these represent the future for the UK economy and deserve encouragement and celebration.”
Please click here to see the full line-up of the 100 women featured in this year’s f:entrepreneur #ialso100 campaign.
