Staffordshire Women in Business

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Staffordshire

The fantastic Women in Business Programme from Staffordshire County Council is dedicated to supporting female business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs and women looking to advance their business journey. The programme aims to provide practical, inclusive and impactful support so that women across Staffordshire (excluding Stoke-on-Trent) can start, grow and thrive in their business ventures. staffordshire.gov.uk

Events are always full to capacity so book your place on these events quickly!

What the Programme Offers

Here’s a breakdown of the key services available to women through the Programme:

• Start-up Workshops – Focused sessions helping you turn an idea into a working business, often with step-by-step practical guidance. staffordshire.gov.uk

• Business Mentorship – Access to expert advice from successful women in business, who share their experience and help guide your business decisions and growth. staffordshire.gov.uk

• Skills Workshops & Training – Workshops covering leadership, finance, digital tools and other essential business skills. Ideal if you’re looking to level up your expertise. staffordshire.gov.uk

• Networking Events – Opportunities to connect with like-minded women, build business relationships and share ideas in a supportive environment. staffordshire.gov.uk

• Guest Speaker Series – Presentations from inspiring female entrepreneurs and innovators to spark ideas, motivation and new perspectives. staffordshire.gov.uk

Who Can Join?

• The programme is open to women across Staffordshire (excluding Stoke-on-Trent) who are:

  • Considering launching a business, or

  • Already a business owner looking to scale, gain new skills or connect with others. staffordshire.gov.uk

• It is designed to be inclusive and to help remove barriers that women can sometimes face in business.

Why This Matters for Local Women in Business

Here are some of the benefits to female entrepreneurs:

• Tailored Support – Unlike general business support, this is specifically designed for women, meaning the environment and delivery may feel more accessible and relevant.

• Confidence Building – Starting and growing a business can be daunting; frameworks like mentorship + workshops help build confidence and capability.

• Skill-Growth – With training on leadership, finance and digital, the Programme helps you strengthen the foundations of your business.

• Peer Network – Networking with other women business owners creates peer support, potential collaboration and a sense of community.

• Visibility & Inspiration – Hearing from successful women entrepreneurs helps show what’s achievable and may spark new ideas for your own business.

How to Get Started

1. Check Eligibility – Ensure you are a woman operating / about to operate in Staffordshire (outside Stoke-on-Trent).

2. Register Your Interest – Contact the Programme via the email provided on the Council’s page. staffordshire.gov.uk

3. Attend Workshops / Events – Pick the sessions that most align with your needs (start-up, growth, networking).

4. Engage With Mentorship & Network – Make the most of the mentor relationships and the event networking opportunities.

5. Put Learning Into Practice – After training or mentorship, set clear next steps for your business (e.g., digital upgrade, new business model, growth goal).

6. Keep Connected – Stay active in the network, attend follow-up events and keep leveraging peer support.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a woman in East Staffordshire either planning to launch a business or already running one and looking to grow, the Women in Business Programme offers a meaningful support route tailored to your needs. It’s not just generic business advice—it’s about building skills, connections, confidence and growth in a setting designed for you.