The University of York, in partnership with Lifted Ventures, is launching a new initiative to support women across the region to become angel investors and back the next generation of female entrepreneurs.
‘A New Era for Women Angels in York & North Yorkshire’ is a funded programme designed to equip women with the knowledge, confidence, and networks needed to begin investing in high-potential businesses across the region.
The programme responds to a significant regional opportunity. Research by the University of York and the Federation of Small Businesses shows that investing in female entrepreneurs could add £2.6 billion to the local economy and create 165,000 jobs. Yet, current investment levels remain disproportionately low, with female founders receiving only a fraction of available equity funding.
Delivered through Lifted Ventures’ Angel Academy, the initiative will bring together a cohort of 15 aspiring women investors and guide them from initial interest through to confident, informed investment activity.
Open to women across a wide range of professional backgrounds, the programme is particularly suited to senior leaders, professionals and exited founders who are interested in building an investment portfolio, supporting regional innovation, and sharing their expertise with emerging businesses.
Participants will take part in a series of workshops combining expert-led sessions, practical insights, and peer learning. The programme will launch with a high-profile event at York Guildhall on 20th May, followed by primarily online delivery and a final in-person celebration in September 2026.
Importantly, the initiative aims to break down common misconceptions around angel investing. Participants will learn that investing is accessible, with opportunities to start from relatively modest amounts and to collaborate with other investors to reduce risk.
Sam Gardner, Director of Enterprise Works at the University of York, said: “York and North Yorkshire has an incredible pipeline of female entrepreneurial talent, but access to investment remains a barrier. This programme is about changing that; giving more women the tools and confidence to invest locally and drive meaningful economic growth.”
Helen Oldham, Co Founder of Lifted Ventures said: “We are delighted to be working with the University of York to increase the number of active women angels looking to back a growing number of female founders in the region. Angel investors bring smart capital, opening up networks and support systems beyond capital, which strengthens the entrepreneurial ecosystem in an underserved but crucial part of the market.”
Jordan Dargue, Co Founder of Lifted Ventures said: “Our signature Angel Education programme has already been delivered to over 150 women and we’re excited to develop more angel capacity in York and North Yorkshire to serve the growing need. numbers of female founders building high-growth businesses.”
Applications are now open for 15 funded places. While the programme is heavily subsidised, successful applicants will be asked to make a £100 commitment to secure their place.
Women do not need to be based in North Yorkshire to apply, but should have a genuine interest in supporting businesses in the region and be considering investing within the next 12–24 months.
Participants will gain practical knowledge of angel investing and how to get started; build confidence to make informed investment decisions; connect with a network of like-minded women and regional entrepreneurs; and play a direct role in supporting the growth of female-led businesses.