Female Founders Highlighted at Bradford Innovation Event

Local entrepreneurs showcase new business ideas at University of Bradford

A recent event at the University of Bradford brought attention to female-led start-ups and innovations from across the region. The occasion, known as Female Founders Day, featured 20 emerging businesses presenting their products and services, marking the conclusion of the Bradford-Renduchintala Enterprise Ecosystem (BREE) programme.

Programme aims and partners

The BREE initiative is a collaborative effort involving the University of Bradford, West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), British Business Bank, and Lifted Ventures. It is designed to support early-stage female entrepreneurs through a combination of workshops, mentoring, and opportunities to connect with investors and industry stakeholders.

The six-month Lifted Ventures accelerator is a key part of the wider two-year BREE programme. It focuses on helping founders develop their business models, improve investment readiness, and enhance their pitching skills. So far, 13 workshops have been held as part of this accelerator.

Support and development

• Workshops and one-to-one coaching continue through November to provide tailored guidance.
• Participants receive mentoring and access to industry contacts.
• Opportunities to pitch to potential investors and partners are provided.
• A Core Programme offers ongoing support for those progressing beyond the accelerator.

Comments from organisers and officials

Sonya Bachra-Byrne, Enterprise Development Manager at the University of Bradford, explained that the enterprise programmes aim to equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to advance their business ideas.

Jordan Dargue, Co-Founder of Lifted Ventures, highlighted the programme’s focus on addressing barriers women face in entrepreneurship, including confidence, leadership support, investor access, and tailored business strategies.

Delyth Lloyd-Edwards, Senior Manager for North West England at the British Business Bank, noted the importance of supporting female founders to overcome investment barriers and scale their businesses, emphasising the role of diversity in driving innovation and economic growth.

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin stated that the partnership supports inclusive economic growth and helps female leaders access mentoring and networks, contributing to the region’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Case studies of local female entrepreneurs

Tsitsi Chinyandura – Lotessa

Tsitsi Chinyandura developed Lotessa, a digital health platform aimed at supporting people using GLP-1 medications for type 2 diabetes and related metabolic conditions. The platform offers tracking tools, educational content, and a peer community.

Tsitsi’s motivation stemmed from her own health experiences, and since joining the BREE programme, she has refined her business pitch, connected with partners, and developed a growth strategy. Lotessa now includes an educational hub and community support features and is preparing to scale nationally.

Contact: hello@lotessadigitalhealth.co.uk

Lucy Finn – X-Trim

Lucy Finn created X-Trim, a patented wearable resistance training device designed to support strength training, particularly for midlife women experiencing menopause or recovering from injury. The device aims to provide a hands-free, full-body workout solution.

Lucy’s journey involved overcoming personal challenges and scepticism, with the support of the BREE programme helping her with financial planning, marketing, and investor engagement. X-Trim is preparing for market launch with ambitions to become a global leader in accessible strength training.

Website: www.x-trim.co.uk
Email: lucyjoy@x-trim.co.uk

Conclusion

The Female Founders Day event and the wider BREE programme represent ongoing efforts to support women entrepreneurs in West Yorkshire. By providing resources, mentorship, and investment opportunities, the initiative aims to foster innovation and economic growth in the region.