Female entrepreneurs add £105 billion to the economy, representing 6.3% GVA. When investment is secured, female-led businesses generate 35% higher returns.
Yet, just 1.8% of capital invested in the UK goes to female founded ventures.
The Fortuna Fellowship has been developed to bridge the funding gap for women, at the same time as showcasing the innovation coming out of the West Midlands ecosystem
The Fortuna Fellowship is a unique 12-month accelerator offering five ambitious female founders an unparalleled opportunity to scale their businesses. With expert guidance and the potential to secure a share of a £2 million investment fund, our founders will gain the resources and support they need to achieve lasting success.
We’ve partnered with venture capital firm, Midven, to launch this groundbreaking accelerator. Part of Future Planet Capital, Midven manages the West Midlands Co-Investment Fund and has committed £1 million towards our investment pot.
Over the course of 12 months, each founder will be paired with a high-level mentor, have access to the investment team with weekly ‘office hours’, and take part in workshops with leading experts. They will also come together for co-working and embark on a unique innovation residential. If that wasn’t enough, a central advisory board will provide the cohort with guidance from industry leaders in areas such as product testing, manufacturing, go-to-market strategy, exporting, and investment.
This project is delivered by The 51% Club and Midven, in partnership with West Midlands Combined Authority’s West Midlands Co-Investment Fund.
MEET OUR FOUNDERS
SAY HELLO TO OUR FORTUNA FOUNDERS
Olivia Davson
Cubbi
Dee Kundi
Find Me A Solicitor
Jane Davis
Homewrecker
Mo Carrier
MyBliss
Elena Boos
Visionary Farms
“These founders have the potential to build something truly special. But potential alone isn’t enough. They need real-world advice, strategic connections, unwavering support, and investors ready to back them. That’s what the Fortuna Fellowship offers, and I’m excited to support a programme that’s empowering women to take their businesses to the next level, right here in the West Midlands.”
Melissa Snover
Founder of Rem3dy Health and Fortuna Fellowship Judge
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
If you’re interested in mentoring, supporting, or investing in our Fortuna Founders, get in touch.