Showcasing some of the best female-led start-ups and SME's
Join the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and NatWest for the return of the annual Women Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition.
This event will aim to showcase some of the best female-led start-ups and SME’s pitching their ideas live to our judging panel and room of investors, fellow entrepreneurs and local business leaders.
As well as being able to directly pitch their business to funds actively looking to invest in businesses in the region, one business will be named as the panel’s “One to Watch” and overall winner of the competition.
In addition to observing live pitches, attendees will also learn what investors really look for when investing in new companies. As part of the event, there will be a networking session with angel investors and VCs in attendance. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet and interact with fellow entrepreneurs and investors in an engaging format.
To qualify to pitch to the panel, businesses must be female founded or co-founded and demonstrate clear growth potential. Applications open Wednesday 25th August – Wednesday 30th September.
According to The Gender Index, the West Midlands has seen a sharp decline in the proportion of female-led companies, falling from 20.9% in 2023 to 17.3% in 2025). This is despite the fact that the West Midlands has the highest proportion of female-led companies in the UK.
The Women Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition is delivered in partnership with NatWest*.
Attend for:
- Support the region’s leading start-ups and women business leaders
- Learn what investors really look for when investing in new companies
- Network with competitors, delegates, angel investors and VCs
Aimed at:
- Ambitious women-led enterprises
- Regionally-based small businesses and entrepreneurs
- Investors and VCs
- Those with an interest in supporting, and ability to support, female entrepreneurship and business growth
- Regionally-based senior leaders and business influencers
Apply to pitch:
If you are a woman leading an ambitious start-up or SME based in the West Midlands you can apply to pitch by completing the application form linked below by no later than the 30th September.
Our event partners:
- The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce
The Chamber are here to unleash the potential of Greater Birmingham’s businesses. Whether it’s connections with our extensive network, inspiring events that spark new ideas, expert led services, regional insight, or opportunities to build and raise their profile, we’re here to give local business the tools to reach their full potential. Join the GBCC today to become part of a vibrant community of forward-thinking organisations, that are proud to be shaping the future of Greater Birmingham - together.
- NatWest Accelerator
The NatWest Accelerator is our thriving community for entrepreneurs providing a range of support for business to grow.
As Britian’s biggest bank for startups, NatWest’s Accelerator is recognised as a leading entrepreneurial network for businesses across the UK, working in collaboration with local and regional partners to identify ways to stimulate strong and sustainable SME growth.
Underpinned by our NatWest Accelerator app, it’ll empower you to grow your business whenever you need it, virtually or at one of our 12 physical hubs across the UK.
Drinks and light refreshments will be available at the venue.
*Please note: by applying for a place to attend, you accept that your details will be shared with NatWest for reporting purposes only.
All genders are welcome to attend.
Event Sponsors
