Member Article

Sunderland to Chicago: PR agency’s female founder selected for women’s only US Trade Mission

12 women-led businesses from the UK are invited to celebrate International Women’s Day at Chicago’s Consulate General, including House of Hype & Co. Founder and Managing Director Claire Pickersgill.

With Claire set to represent the North East on a Trade Mission to Indianapolis and Chicago, this pilot initiative aims to boost women's participation in International Trade by connecting UK female founders with their US counterparts. 

Designed by the Department of Business & Trade Women’s International Network (WIN) programme, the trip will see House of Hype & Co. participate in a full B2B itinerary to bolster the connection between the US and the UK’s female-led businesses.

According to a 2019 Review of Female Entrepreneurship commissioned by HM Treasury, far less female-owned and led businesses export than male led ones. That means, if women were to scale their businesses at the same rate as men, up to £250bn of new value could be added to the UK economy.

Sunderland-based PR agency, House of Hype & Co, work with clients to get audiences talking positively about their business through a range of channels and concepts to enhance their reputation, growth and increase business opportunities. With House of Hype & Co. already co-hosting a series of sold-out ladies only networking events in the North East in 2024 in partnership with Activated Mindset Online, this trip sees Claire take another strong step forward for supporting women in business. 

Founder Claire said:

“This really is a pinch me moment and I’m so excited to represent the UK as part of the trade mission, not only is it a great opportunity for myself and the business but I’ll also have my client’s objectives on my mind too for the visit, alongside promoting Sunderland and the North East as a great place to do business.

Connections and collaborations are at the heart of everything we do at House of Hype & Co. and I’m very excited about the new relationships that will be forged through the trade mission.”

Introducing the Women’s International Network (WIN Programme)

“Imagine a world where female-led businesses soar to new heights, where opportunities are boundless, and your success knows no limits.

WIN is a movement poised to revolutionize the business landscape for female entrepreneurs like you. We're here to shatter barriers, embrace opportunities, and empower you to take your business to extraordinary heights.”
 

Bev Mullin, Deputy Head of Partnerships, Northern Powerhouse, Department for Business and Trade (DBT) commented:

“The Women’s International Networking (WIN) programme aims to change the landscape for women in business, offering a structured and supportive environment for women to grow their businesses and achieve their potential. 

We are proud to be hosting 12 remarkable women-led businesses across Advanced Manufacturing, Healthcare and Life Sciences, Education, Creative, Financial and Professional Services and Consumer Goods.

These female founders are keen to connect with their counterparts in Indianapolis and Chicago to forge valuable business relationships and discuss entry/expansion into the US market.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Claire Pickersgill .