Member Article

New networking group set to boost North East female entrepreneurs

A new networking group for North East business women will launch next month, following a collaboration between The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Newcastle-based digital agency Sparkle Communications.

FSBWomenNE, which will form part of the FSB membership package, will exist as a virtual platform for the region’s female entrepreneurs to connect and develop relationships. Moreover, the new service will be supplemented by networking events throughout the year.

The first event will take place over lunch at the Staiths Café in Gateshead on Thursday 9 July and will be headed up by Gudrun Lauret of the FSB and managed by Nicola Little and Jennifer Robson of Sparkle Communications. Continuing opportunities for members to gain inspiration, motivation and information will be provided via digital platforms Twitter and Facebook.

Nicola said: “We are thrilled to be involved with FSBWomenNE. We know through experience that networking in real-life that is backed up with digital communications is a powerful opportunity to connect and create new ideas in friendly and conversational way.

“We firmly believe that every single one of us has the ability to achieve incredible things, and are very much looking forward to seeing business women here in the north east flourish.”

Interested parties can join the group if they are female FSB members based in the north east of England.

Gudrun said: “I’m delighted that Sparkle have come on board to organise some fresh, exciting events with us. Our members across the region have told us they’d like more networking, and it’s important to us that we encourage female entrepreneurs by providing them with a supportive environment to meet with like-minded businesswomen”.

Simon Hanson, FSB Development Manager, said: “We know that only 22 per cent of businesses in the north east are led by women.

“We are keen to increase this, and contribute to the growth of the north east economy, by providing a way to extend connections and collaborations.

“This networking group aims to inspire and empower business women to turn their ideas into a reality, and ultimately, grow their businesses.”

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