Empowering Women in the Food Industry through the Global London Programme

In today’s dynamic global market, the food industry emerges as a sector ripe with opportunities but also fraught with challenges, especially for women entrepreneurs aiming to specialise in their niche. To help address this, the Global London programme is designed specifically to support and bolster women’s ambitions in the food industry.

The untapped potential of women-led businesses in the food industry is vast. With the right support and resources, these organisations can scale up from local operations to global powerhouses. Recognising this potential is the cornerstone of the Global London programme, which aims to unlock opportunities for women entrepreneurs and set a precedent for inclusivity and diversity in the industry.

Introducing the Global London Programme

Small London businesses like yours can thrive in today’s global economy with the help of Global London. The fully funded programme is designed to support London’s small businesses in breaking into international markets, with a focus on women founders and those from minority ethnic groups.

The programme offers a combination of 1-2-1 expert advice from experienced business advisers, masterclasses on specialist topics, peer-to-peer networking, and Export Readiness workshops, culminating in a European Trade Mission—all designed to help accelerate business growth.

The programme facilitates connections with peers, potential business partners and industry influencers in the industry. The participants get a platform to showcase their businesses and forge valuable alliances.

Success Stories: How has the Global London Programme impacted Female Owners in the Food Industry?

The true testament to the programme’s success lies in the stories of participants who have seen remarkable growth in their business. From launching new product lines to expanding into international markets, these women have not only grown their businesses but have also contributed to a more diverse and inclusive industry landscape. Hear from fellow business founders below on how the Global London programme has supported their business:

Carisips: Bold flavours without the fizz

Global London’s business adviser helped Aisha win a £50,000 Unlocking Potential Funding Award. With these funds, she has successfully launched an extended range of Carisips four soft drinks. Aisha worked with her adviser to improve product quality control by switching production to a different manufacturer, recruiting motivated and creative student interns, and developing a clear marketing and sales launch plan.

Pukpip: Chocolate-covered frozen bananas on sticks and bite-size pouches

Founder, Zara is looking to attract investment into her Pukpip business. She worked with her Global London adviser to firstly develop her investment story and practice her investor pitch presentation. Zara’s adviser also provided a list of investors interested in the food sector for her to approach. Zara now feels fully prepared and confident to pitch to potential investors in the business.

Humble Crumble: Delicious artisan crumbles that taste as good as they look

Kim was interested in going international with her Humble Crumble and establishing her first retail outlet in an overseas market. Her Global London adviser helped her undertake an evaluation of the three markets already showing great interest in the product, estimating the business potential, level of business risk, and the future scope for further in-market expansion. Kim then followed up with a market visit to better understand the local retail environment and opportunities. Based on this work, Kim has a much better understanding of what it would take to launch into her preferred international market.

Take your Business Global: How to Sign Up for the Global London Programme

For women entrepreneurs in the food industry looking to elevate their business, joining the Global London programme could be a game-changing decision.

To participate, your business must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be registered in the UK
• Be trading in London
• Have a minimum of three employees
• Been trading for at least 18 months
• Have a turnover and/or investment minimum of £50k
• Looking to grow internationally

Join the other London-based companies that are already on a path to growing their business.  Sign up today

You may also like Discover What Happened at our Urban Female Founders & Food Makers Day, and Baking a Difference: Kim Innes and the Crumble Revolution.