On 28th March 2025, Innovate UK will host “Empowering Women in AI and Business Growth: Breaking Barriers and Building Futures” at Google’s London headquarters. This event aims to address the unique challenges faced by women-led businesses in the rapidly evolving fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and business growth, offering actionable insights, networking opportunities, and access to support initiatives.

Understanding the Challenges
Despite advancements in technology and business, women-led enterprises continue to encounter significant hurdles. Recent statistics reveal that AI startups founded by women secure a disproportionately small fraction of funding deals. Additionally, many female business owners report feeling less equipped with the necessary skills and confidence to integrate AI into their operations. These challenges underscore the importance of targeted support and resources to bridge the existing gaps.

Event Objectives
The primary goal of this event is to empower women entrepreneurs by providing:

  • Actionable Insights: Strategies for scaling businesses and accessing new markets.
  • Investor Connections: Opportunities to engage with investors and learn effective methods for sourcing talent to accelerate business success.
  • Support Awareness: Information on available support mechanisms for both AI suppliers and consumers, including Innovate UK’s system support and talent initiatives.
  • Networking Opportunities: Platforms to connect with fellow women leaders and innovators, fostering a community of support and collaboration.

Who Should Attend?
The event is tailored for women business leaders and owners from across the UK. While registration is open to all, the content is specifically designed to benefit women-led businesses and those in leadership positions. Attendees will have the option to deliver a 2-minute pitch highlighting their activities, objectives, and needs concerning support and collaborations.

Agenda Highlights
The event’s draft agenda includes:

  • 09:15 – Registration and Networking: An opportunity to connect with peers and establish new relationships.
  • 09:45 – Welcome Address by Innovate UK Business Connect: Setting the tone for the day’s discussions and activities.
  • 10:00 – Initiatives to Support Women in Business and Businesses: An overview of current programs and resources available to women entrepreneurs.
  • 10:15 – Overview of No Limits and Inclusive Innovation Programmes: Insights into Innovate UK’s initiatives aimed at fostering diversity and inclusion in innovation.
  • 10:30 – Company Pitches: A platform for attendees to present their businesses, share objectives, and seek potential collaborations.
  • 11:00 – Networking and Refreshments: A break to facilitate informal discussions and networking.
  • 11:15 – Upskilling in AI by the National Innovation Centre for Data: Discussing the importance of data skills in the AI landscape.
  • 11:30 – The Role of Maths in AI in Business by System Holdings: A case study on leveraging mathematics and AI for business development, including strategies for sourcing talent and investment, and reaching new markets.
  • 11:45 – AI Talent by Imperial College London: Exploring how academic institutions can support the growth of women-led businesses and the broader business community.
  • 11:55 – Market Diversification by NquiringMinds: Insights into the benefits and challenges of diversifying markets, drawing from NquiringMinds’ experiences.

Innovate UK’s Commitment
Innovate UK remains dedicated to dismantling barriers that hinder the progress of women in AI and business. Through initiatives like No Limits and Inclusive Innovation, the organisation strives to create an environment where diverse ideas and perspectives can flourish, driving economic growth and societal advancement.

To register for the event, click here.

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