Growth and Funding Programme for Female Founders

Athena Labs, delivered by Lifted and the National Innovation Centre for Ageing (NICA), is a new initiative designed to promote the significant benefits of backing women-led businesses in these important sectors.

This Growth and Funding Programme for Female Founders will give delegates the opportunity to elevate their business and growth narrative, ready for their next leap forward: highlighting the significant talent coming from the North East. 

This three-month accelerator is designed for female founders innovating at the intersection of health, wellbeing, technology and social impact. The programme will help founders to refine their business model, build investor-ready confidence, and connect to a thriving community of funders, advisors, and like-minded entrepreneurs.

From smart care solutions to purpose-driven ‘living well’ products, this programme is for founders ready to scale with purpose and with capital.

With a focus on businesses aligned to the Internet of Caring Things® — products and services designed to improve quality of life, connection, care, and purpose — the programme will give you the tools, networks and visibility you need to scale with impact.

Programme Highlights

• A dedicated 3-month programme for up to 10 female-founded businesses
• 1:1 coaching and group-based workshops with access to finance embedded
• Introductions to angels, VCs, NEDs, and specialist advisors
• Access to Lifted Ventures’ investor network
• Peer-led pod groups and community events
• Support from professionals with real-world investment and startup leadership experience

Why apply to Athena Labs?

• Get investor-ready: Build your pitch, refine your business plan, and prepare for due diligence
• Raise your profile: Showcase your innovation to aligned investors.
• Expand your network: Meet fellow founders, funders, and ecosystem stakeholders
• Access long-term support: Join the Lifted Ventures community for continued introductions, mentoring, and opportunities
• Be seen: Help position the North East as a thriving hub for diverse innovation and female entrepreneurship

Who Should Apply?

We’re looking for 10 female founders based in or with ties to the North East, building early-stage ventures in areas aligned to:

• Health & Wellbeing
• Smart Homes, IoT & Wearables
• Sustainable living
• Caring for pets, people, and communities
• Digital solutions for social connection or education
• Cognitive or emotional health innovation

How to Apply

Apply here.

• Fill out the application form with your business details.
• Submit your application before the deadline (9 October 2025).
• Spaces are limited to 10 participants – don’t miss out!