NatWest expands She Scales support network for female founders across the UK

The programme is designed to support female founders through events, networking opportunities, practical business advice and a digital community. It will now operate under a single national identity across NatWest’s Accelerator network following an initial launch across 13 hubs.

Since March 2026, She Scales has delivered 68 events, covering topics including artificial intelligence, marketing and fundraising. A survey of 211 attendees found that 95.7% were satisfied or very satisfied with the programme, while all respondents said they felt more confident or better equipped to build their business after attending.

NatWest said the initiative was developed in response to feedback from female founders, who highlighted a need for stronger community networks, greater visibility and improved access to business opportunities.

Alongside the in-person events, the Female Founders Community within the NatWest Accelerator app has grown to more than 1,900 members in under six months.

London recorded the highest attendance levels, attracting 436 attendees across 11 events. Leeds hosted three events with a total of 232 attendees and an attendance rate of 82%.

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“Starting and growing a business can be isolating, and founders told us they wanted more than occasional networking,” said Sharniya Ferdinand, Strategic Partnership Inclusion Lead at NatWest Accelerator.”They wanted a trusted community where they could build practical skills, raise their profile and form connections that lead to real opportunities.”

NatWest said it plans to expand the programme further as additional Accelerator hubs open across the UK.

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