A TRIO of Greater Manchester-based entrepreneurs is bringing the first ever Female Business Festival to Trafford.
Female Business Network (FBN) founder Janine Friston has joined forces with members Hazel Woodward and Suzi Brown to stage the event on Friday, 14 October.
Held at the historic Flixton House, the festival will culminate with the inaugural FBN Awards, which will be hosted by Trafford entrepreneur Liz Taylor. One of Manchester’s most well-respected businesswomen, Liz created her multi-million-pound events empire on a start-up budget of £200.
“Having set up the FBN to recognise and help women to start and grow their audience and business, I am excited to celebrate our first business birthday with this in-person day and evening event,” said Janine, who is from Sale.
“Our focus is on giving women access to practical guidance that can transform their business and, in turn, their lives. In most cases, attendees can implement the expert, actionable steps from our guest speakers there and then – including our daytime keynote speaker, multi-award-winning entrepreneur Charlie Day.
‘To make the event as accessible as possible, Flixton House is located 10-15 minutes outside of Manchester, with on-site parking and a train station opposite. It is also a conscious decision to schedule the festival from 9.30am to 3pm to fit around the school run for those who are parents. In the evening, we are looking forward to celebrating our ‘best in class’ award winners.”
Designed for micro to small business owners, as well as freelancers, the Female Business Festival will cover a variety of topics including social media, finance, productivity and mindset. Numbers are limited to 150 people during the day – allowing for networking, interactive workshops and delegate Q&As.
“Suzi, Janine and I have sponsored the event alongside JH Brand Photos and VCM Graphic Design, but we welcome interest from other companies who would like to get involved,” added Hazel, who is from Urmston and the owner of Lift Social.
“There are also opportunities for inspiring female-run businesses to join those who have already signed up to host our expo stands.”
During the FBN Awards Gala, which begins at 7pm, winners will be announced across multiple categories – including ‘Professional Service Provider’, ‘Rising Star’ and ‘Overall Business of the Year’.
“Nominations for UK-based female business owners are welcomed until 31 August,” said Suzi, owner of The Smart Bear Digital, which is based in Urmston.
“There is no cost to enter, as we wanted to remove any financial barriers for women who deserve to be recognised for their hard work and achievements.”
Tickets for the Female Business Festival and FBN Awards are on sale.
For more information, and to enter the FBN Awards, visit femalebusinessnetwork.co.uk/female-business-festival or follow the official event hashtag #FBNFestival on social media.
