New programme targets female investors

A Yorkshire university is launching a new programme to support women investors and boost regional business growth.

The University of York has partnered with Lifted Ventures to deliver ‘A New Era for Women Angels in York & North Yorkshire’, a funded initiative designed to help women develop the skills and confidence to invest in high-potential businesses.

Delivered through Lifted Ventures’ Angel Academy, the programme will support a cohort of 15 aspiring investors, guiding them from initial interest to active participation in funding early-stage companies.

Helen Oldham, co-founder of Lifted Ventures, said: “We are delighted to be working with the University of York to increase the number of active women angels looking to back a growing number of female founders in the region. 

“Angel investors bring smart capital, opening up networks and support systems beyond capital, which strengthens the entrepreneurial ecosystem in an underserved but crucial part of the market.”

Jordan Dargue, co-founder of Lifted Ventures, added: “Our signature Angel Education programme has already been delivered to over 150 women and we’re excited to develop more angel capacity in York and North Yorkshire to serve the growing need. numbers of female founders building high-growth businesses.”

The initiative responds to research by the University of York and the Federation of Small Businesses which highlights a major opportunity in the region, with increased investment in female-led businesses estimated to add £2.6 billion to the local economy and create 165,000 jobs. 

Despite this, female founders currently receive a disproportionately small share of equity funding.

Open to women from a range of professional backgrounds, the programme will combine expert-led workshops, practical learning and peer support, beginning with a launch event at York Guildhall on May 20, followed by primarily online delivery and a final in-person celebration in September 2026.

Participants will gain insight into accessible investment opportunities while building networks and supporting the growth of female-led enterprises.

Sam Gardner, director of enterprise works at the University of York, added: “York and North Yorkshire has an incredible pipeline of female entrepreneurial talent, but access to investment remains a barrier. 

“This programme is about changing that; giving more women the tools and confidence to invest locally and drive meaningful economic growth.”

Applications are now open for 15 funded places. 

Women do not need to be based in North Yorkshire to apply, though should have a genuine interest in supporting businesses in the region and be considering investing within the next 12–24 months.

While the programme is heavily subsidised, successful applicants will be asked to make a small £100 commitment to secure their place.

To find out more, click here.

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