‘The level of early engagement has been extremely encouraging’ – New grant scheme opens to support female entrepreneurs
Women-led businesses across Aberdeenshire are being encouraged to apply for a new grant programme designed to help female founders test ideas, explore markets and accelerate growth.
Business Gateway Aberdeen City and Shire has launched the funding opportunity through its Building Female Founders programme. The initiative forms part of a wider project seeking to unlock the potential of female entrepreneurship across the north-east.
Funding for early-stage businesses
The small-scale “test and learn” grants will provide £500 to eligible female founders within their first two years of trading. The funding is intended to support projects that validate business ideas, develop products or services and help bring new opportunities to market.
Eligible activities could include:
- Attending trade shows and exhibitions
- Developing marketing campaigns
- Creating e-commerce platforms
- Securing specialist accreditation
- Producing professional photography or video content for a launch
The funding follows the summer launch of the Building Female Founders programme, which attracted more than 80 entrepreneurs from across the region and generated considerable interest.
The launch included insights from women already building businesses, highlighting both the opportunities available to female entrepreneurs and the challenges they may encounter. Organisers said these experiences demonstrated the value of focused support in turning ambition into sustainable growth.
Addressing barriers to growth
The programme was developed in response to regional demand and aims to address the continued under-representation of women in business growth. It offers tailored and accessible support reflecting some of the practical realities women can face when starting and developing a company.
Common barriers can include difficulty accessing finance and professional networks, as well as travel constraints and caring responsibilities.
Dedicated Female Founders business adviser Kirstene Hair will provide personalised one-to-one coaching. Participants will also be able to access specialist expertise, practical learning opportunities and peer networks.
Hair brings experience from leadership roles in politics and the charity sector, as well as a background in executive coaching. Her work will focus on helping women start businesses, build confidence and pursue sustainable growth.
Strong early interest
Councillor Alan Turner, chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s infrastructure services committee, said the response to the programme had been positive from the outset.
“The level of early engagement has been extremely encouraging and has given the programme real traction from the outset.
“It clearly demonstrates the appetite for this type of support among women-led businesses and the important role it can play in helping them grow and succeed.
“I would encourage eligible businesses to take advantage of the support available through Business Gateway, review the guidance carefully and submit their applications as soon as possible to ensure they don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity.”
Demand is expected to be high, so eligible female founders are being advised to review the grant guidance and apply as early as possible. Applications close on November 30, and funded activity must be completed and evidenced by the end of February 2027.
