Training Women to Win

Abstract

Purpose – Training Women to Win, a University of Surrey project set out to identify good practice in terms of available support and to produce and pilot recommendations that will improve current business support and training provision for women. In this context, this paper aims to consider some of the key challenges faced by women seeking to start a new business. Design/methodology/approach – A questionnaire was posted online on a dedicated project web site, in collaboration with Everywoman Ltd Links were established from other sites. In total, about 1,000 women were targeted. A series of focus groups were also held. Findings – The main findings of the project are that business support providers tend to be target driven and thus supply is not always geared to demand. One of the consequences of this target culture is a “one size fits all” strategy. Practical implications – The paper shows that many respondents, although largely aware that agencies exist, are often unaware of the services that they provide and/or how to access appropriate support. Business support is acknowledged by some to be very good at the initial stages. However, further into the business cycle, there appears to be less support for the growth phrase. Originality/value – The paper adds to the growing body of work on female entrepreneurship and on the support they need.