Women in Impact
Region:
Startup Discovery UK
Partner
UKSPF
Status
CLOSED
About the programme
Empowering climate women entrepreneurs
The ‘Women in Impact Accelerator’ is an exciting new programme for female entrepreneurs working on a business that has a sustainability focus, and is looking to make an impact in their industry. Designed to bridge the diversity gap in the sustainability space, the ‘Women In Impact Accelerator’ allows women led businesses access to key support and resources such as: executive coaching, pitch practice, due diligence prep and tailored 1:1’s. The accelerator is delivered by Startup Discovery in partnership with OneTech and Capital Enterprise and is funded by the UK Government under the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The programme spans 24 weeks and is tailor-made to support and nurture ten women-led impact early-stage and seed stage businesses, offering a focused journey aimed at empowerment. The program zeroes in on sustainability, with a special emphasis on health and education within the broader sustainability landscape. It serves as a practical avenue for women entrepreneurs to grow and make a meaningful impact.
Apply to this
Application
Climate startups applied to be part of the program
Training
Selected startups will go through intensive training and coaching on how to improve their business.
Pitch
Startup founders will be invited to pitch their ideas in front of a panel.
Funding
Selected startups will receive grant funding.
Post-funding
The winners will have the opportunity to discuss piloting their solutions with the council.
We support
Waste Reduction and Recycling
Energy Efficient Buildings
Renewable Energy
Sustainable Mobility
Green Jobs & Skills
Biodiversity & Environmental Quality
Programme Components
| Training | components | |
|---|---|---|
| A | Workshop Series | Navigating Biases in Fundraising: Addressing gender biases and strategies for navigating them in fundraising. Data Room Assessment: Guidance on compiling and presenting data for due diligence. Budgeting Techniques and Management Accounts: Tools and strategies for effective budgeting and financial management in fundraising. Expert Pitch Deck Review: Feedback and optimization of pitch decks from industry experts. |
| B | Mentorship and Coaching | Executive Coaching: Tailored coaching sessions to address specific business challenges and personal growth. Sector-Specific Mentoring: Pairing participants with mentors experienced in sustainability and entrepreneurship Peer-to-Peer Learning Circles: Facilitated group discussions for peer support and collaborative problem-solving. |
| C | Networking and Building | Industry Expert Panels: Inviting guest speakers to share insights and best practices, enhancing Lewisham's commitment to knowledge-sharing. Networking Events: Virtual and in-person networking opportunities to connect with investors, advisors, and fellow entrepreneurs, amplifying Lewisham's support network. Community Engagement: Online forums and collaboration platforms for ongoing support and collaboration beyond the program, extending Lewisham's community-building efforts. |
Programme feedback
Apply to our
- Access to Resources: Curated resources and toolkits to support business development and growth
- Visibility and Exposure: Opportunities for media coverage and featured profiles to amplify participant impact
- Investor Introductions: Facilitated introductions to potential investors, angel networks, and impact funds
- Post-Program Support: Continued mentorship, alumni network access, and follow-up sessions to ensure sustained progress and impact.
FAQs
These are answers to some of the most-asked questions we receive for this programme.
How much time would it take?
We expect founders to commit full-time to their businesses, dedicating approximately 2 hours per week for 24 weeks to program activities, including workshops, coaching sessions, and self-paced learning activities.
Do I need a team to apply?
No — solo founders are welcome.
Where does it take place?
The programme has a hybrid model format with virtual workshops, one-on-one coaching, and in-person networking events (where feasible) in London.
Will I receive funding?
No, there's no funding attached.
Is the program free?
Yes — fully funded by London Borough of Lewisham
SUPPORTED BY
