Newport, May 9th – The University of South Wales (USW) Startup Stiwdio, held the Developing Entrepreneurial Women Conference, with funding from NatWest, at USW Newport campus. The event drew together prominent leaders and innovators to inspire and support budding entrepreneurs. The conference featured distinguished guests including:
- Cllr Jane Mudd, Leader of Newport City Council
- Louise Bright- Pro Vice Chancellor Enterprise, Engagement and Partnerships, USW
- Kellie Beirne, Director of the Cardiff Capital Region programme
- Carol Hall & Rachel Ashley, Women Angels of Wales/ Angels Invest Wales/ Development Bank of Wales
- Caroline Thompson, Regional Enterprise Director at NatWest
- Jo Davies, Founder of The Clarity Hub
Event Highlights: Louise Bright emphasized USW’s entrepreneurial prowess, highlighting that it has been the top university in Wales for graduate start-ups for four consecutive years. She noted, “Our commitment to helping graduates start their businesses significantly benefits the region.”
The Rose Review was referenced by multiple speakers on the day: the review revealed that if women started and scaled businesses at the same rate as men, they could add £250 billion to the UK economy. “It’s both an ethical and economic imperative that we support women in business,” stated a representative. The review also highlighted the post-pandemic challenges, with 77% of women struggling with business and work-life balance, stressing the need for more female angel investors and supportive networks.
Cllr Jane Mudd, reflecting on her journey with USW since 1996, shared how the university empowered her as a mother and leader. “USW changed my life, helping me articulate my views and understand my value. Collaboration is key, and there is ample support available; women just need the confidence to seek it out.”
Kellie Beirne described entrepreneurial spirit as the ability to add value and maximize resources. “Being an entrepreneurial woman means being risk-wise and having a ‘can-do’ attitude. It’s about pushing boundaries and making things happen,” she stated. Jo Davies from The Clarity Hub spoke on the importance of personal branding and community engagement. She outlined the essentials of a thriving business: connection, communication, consistency, and commitment.
The importance of community was further emphasized by members of the USW Startup Stiwdio: Talitha Young (Teeleafa), Lyndsay Crompton (The Community Chiropractor) and Tasha Cole (Lorna Media) as they spoke of their own journeys in the entrepreneurship space, and the benefits they felt being part of the Stiwdio network.
‘Imagine getting paid a minimum wage for building someone else’s dream?’ Dr Lyndsay Crompton
‘I want to leave a legacy to continue to uplift people around me’ – Tasha Cole
Members of this years’ Developing Entrepreneurial Women workshops took to the stage, to showcase their businesses and plans for the future.
Meanwhile the Women of the Arts panel offered perspectives from across the freelance sphere: Marion Cheung ( Jean Genies) Thania Acaron ( The Body Hotel) Jo West ( Urban Stamp) Sarah Asante Gregory ( Hijinx) and artist, facilitator and compere Prith Biant ( The Creative Thinking Company). Although their experiences in the sector differed, all agreed on the importance of community in overcoming challenges faced by the sector.
“Finding your tribe and understanding who you are is crucial for both quick wins and long-term growth.”- Jo Davies from The Clarity Hub
The Developing Entrepreneurial Women Conference successfully highlighted the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs and fostering a collaborative environment to drive economic growth and innovation.
