RSA Trust Female Founders
Start Up Programme
Empowering women resident in Enfield, Haringey or Waltham Forest
with the tools, skills and confidence to develop their ideas and launch their own businesses
About the Programme
The RSA Trust Female Founders Start Up Programme (formerly known as the Inspiring Women Start Up Programme), is a unique fully funded, 6-month course designed to help women in Waltham Forest, Enfield and Haringey develop their ideas, create a business model and be get ready to launch their business. It is delivered over 6 months through a hybrid mix of webinars, in-person seminars and 121 advice and guidance. The commitment required for the course is around 1 day every 2 weeks.
The programme is facilitated by an experienced SFEDI accredited Business Adviser and is a great opportunity to develop your business knowledge and skills, improve your confidence and get your business up and running! All the support is free as it is fully funded by Enfield based charity, The RSA Trust.
At the end of the course, all participants receive certificates as a graduation and presentation ceremony event - have a look at our 2026 graduation event.
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Develop your business idea and create a business model
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Carry out market research effectively
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Use digital marketing to promote your business online
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Understand financial costs and expenses- how much is needed to make a profit
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Build your confidence
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Understand the legal requirements of running a business
In-person and online course sessions include:
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Setting the Scene:
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My Business Model:
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Market Research and Your USP, Marketing Plan and Selling:
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Understanding the Financials
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The Digital Marketplace: Strategies for Online Presence and Selling
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Video Marketing - Content Creation and Editing Tools
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Legal Considerations
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Top Tips for Going Green
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AI in Action: Elevating Your Marketing Game
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HR Essentials
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My Business Model Development
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Bringing it All Together, Next Steps seminar and Graduation Celebratory Lunch
What previous participants say:
Click on the images to find out what past participants had to say.
Gladys Mintah - Natgab Services
2013
Anais Bresle - FireFinch Marketing
2025
Clare Heal - Sauerpuss
2025
Rikki Parker - Never Still Photography
2025
Fadela Caramla - FAELY Expert Stylist
2025
Sara Alzetta - AM Niche
2025
Juliet Saffery - Jewels VA
2023
“I wanted something that suits my needs. The programme gave me the chance to make new friends and learn new skills, such as using social media without apprehension – it also gave me hope that I can create a sustainable business despite economic changes. The support from listening to others has been great, and I leave sessions feeling inspired and energised to do things, and the tasks or 'homework' kept me focused and guided.”
Placida Ojinnaka
Interested? Check Your Eligibility
To apply you must:
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Be a woman aged over 18 years
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Be resident in one of the following boroughs: Enfield, Waltham Forest or Haringey
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Have a business idea and thinking of starting a business/ working for yourself
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Not have already registered your business as a sole trader with HMRC or at Companies House
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Be able to commit to the 6-month period of the course - and attend all the in-person and online sessions