Finance leader appointed to national entrepreneurship review

Finance lecturer, author and award-winning entrepreneur Tara Askham has been appointed to the Steering Committee for the Maple Review, a Government-backed independent review led by Small Business Britain and supported by Xero. 

The review will examine how economic deprivation creates barriers for UK founders.

Tara became involved earlier this year after speaking at the House of Lords about the challenges facing entrepreneurs outside major economic centres, including limited access to funding, networks and financial literacy.

A Fellow of the Association of Accounting Technicians, Tara has written globally delivered accounting content and supports organisations ranging from large corporates to social enterprises through her consultancy work. 

She also mentors founders through national programmes and volunteers on funding panels supporting organisations unable to access mainstream finance.

Recognised among Small Business Britain’s Top 100 Female Entrepreneurs, she has dedicated her career to improving financial confidence. 

Tara said: “Coming from an area where opportunities are often limited, I know how hard it can be to start or grow a business without the same access to finance or connections.

“Being invited to help shape the Maple Review means I can use that lived experience to help make entrepreneurship more inclusive for everyone.

“Setting up a business should be exciting, not overwhelming. 

“Where you live or what background you come from shouldn’t hold you back. 

“We need to make it simpler, more accessible, and give people the confidence and knowledge to succeed.”

The Maple Review Steering Committee meets for the first time in December.

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