As communities across the country celebrate International Women’s Day this Sunday, Waverley Borough Council is marking the occasion by announcing a new initiative designed to support women looking to build, grow, or future‑proof their businesses.

The “Enterprising Women” Series of Workshops will roll out across Waverley’s four main settlements, each session exploring key topics that women in business consistently identify as both essential and challenging.

The programme will cover finance, AI and emerging technologies, social media, and practical start‑up guidance, with each workshop delivered in depth by sector specialists. One of the speakers confirmed for the series is Liana Fricker from Inspiration Space, who will contribute her experience at one of the forthcoming workshops. The series will also be working with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and a spin off of their Networked Women of Surrey.

Waverley’s workshops form part of a broader commitment to championing female entrepreneurs - an area in which the borough already excels. Across Waverley, women are leading at every level of local enterprise, from Business Improvement District Managers and Chairs to Presidents of Chambers of Commerce. Their achievements have been highlighted through Waverley’s “Women in Business” features and case studies, which showcase the breadth and strength of women‑led organisations in the area. This focus continues at our upcoming Business Question Time event on Monday 16 March, featuring keynote speaker Jane Frankland MBE, award‑winning author and internationally recognised cybersecurity expert, alongside a panel of other influential female leaders.

Participants will also be signposted to IncuHive’s business support services and Seedl’s online training, further strengthening opportunities for ongoing learning.

Councillor Liz Townsend BEM, Waverley Borough Council’s Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economic Development, said:

“International Women’s Day is an important reminder of both the achievements of women in our communities and the barriers that still exist. We know women can be more risk‑aware when considering starting or growing a business, and this series is designed to help turn that awareness into an advantage.

“By equipping women with practical skills, expert insight, and the confidence to move forward, we hope to empower more women across Waverley to turn their ideas into thriving enterprises.”

Finalised workshop dates, topics, and facilitators will be published at: 👉 www.businesswaverley.co.uk 

For information and to book one of the last spaces on Business Question Time, visit Guildford & Waverley Business Question Time 2026 Tickets, Monday, Mar 16 from 5 pm to 7 pm | Eventbrite