News
October 31, 2025
Mentoring programme was ‘game-changing’ for sole traders
Santander’s Women Business Leaders scheme made starting a tech company ‘a lot less lonely’ for its founder and helped a psychotherapist think more strategically
**Mentoring Programme Was ‘Game-Changing’ for Sole Traders**
For many sole traders, the journey of building a business can feel like navigating a maze alone. But for participants in Santander's Women Business Leaders scheme, that journey became significantly less daunting, thanks to the power of mentorship and strategic support. The programme is being hailed as “game-changing” by some who say it provided invaluable guidance and a sense of community often missing for those striking out on their own.
The scheme, designed specifically to support women in business, has proven particularly beneficial for those in traditionally male-dominated sectors and those in fields requiring a more nuanced approach to business development.
One participant, the founder of a burgeoning tech company, described the programme as making the often-isolating experience of starting a business "a lot less lonely." The challenges of launching a tech venture are manifold, from securing funding and attracting talent to navigating complex regulatory landscapes. The Women Business Leaders scheme provided not only access to experienced mentors who understood these challenges firsthand but also a network of fellow entrepreneurs facing similar hurdles. This peer support system allowed for the sharing of insights, resources, and encouragement, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone could thrive.
The impact extended beyond the tech sector. A psychotherapist who participated in the programme found that the mentorship helped her think more strategically about her practice. While skilled in her profession, she acknowledged the challenges of translating therapeutic expertise into a sustainable and growing business. The programme provided the tools and perspective needed to develop a clearer business plan, implement effective marketing strategies, and manage finances more effectively. This newfound strategic focus empowered her to expand her practice and reach more clients in need of her services.
The success stories emerging from Santander's Women Business Leaders scheme highlight the critical role that mentorship and targeted support can play in empowering sole traders, particularly women, to overcome challenges and achieve their entrepreneurial goals. By providing access to experienced guidance, valuable resources, and a supportive community, the programme has proven to be a catalyst for growth and a testament to the power of investing in women in business. The scheme's impact extends beyond individual success stories, contributing to a more diverse and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
For many sole traders, the journey of building a business can feel like navigating a maze alone. But for participants in Santander's Women Business Leaders scheme, that journey became significantly less daunting, thanks to the power of mentorship and strategic support. The programme is being hailed as “game-changing” by some who say it provided invaluable guidance and a sense of community often missing for those striking out on their own.
The scheme, designed specifically to support women in business, has proven particularly beneficial for those in traditionally male-dominated sectors and those in fields requiring a more nuanced approach to business development.
One participant, the founder of a burgeoning tech company, described the programme as making the often-isolating experience of starting a business "a lot less lonely." The challenges of launching a tech venture are manifold, from securing funding and attracting talent to navigating complex regulatory landscapes. The Women Business Leaders scheme provided not only access to experienced mentors who understood these challenges firsthand but also a network of fellow entrepreneurs facing similar hurdles. This peer support system allowed for the sharing of insights, resources, and encouragement, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone could thrive.
The impact extended beyond the tech sector. A psychotherapist who participated in the programme found that the mentorship helped her think more strategically about her practice. While skilled in her profession, she acknowledged the challenges of translating therapeutic expertise into a sustainable and growing business. The programme provided the tools and perspective needed to develop a clearer business plan, implement effective marketing strategies, and manage finances more effectively. This newfound strategic focus empowered her to expand her practice and reach more clients in need of her services.
The success stories emerging from Santander's Women Business Leaders scheme highlight the critical role that mentorship and targeted support can play in empowering sole traders, particularly women, to overcome challenges and achieve their entrepreneurial goals. By providing access to experienced guidance, valuable resources, and a supportive community, the programme has proven to be a catalyst for growth and a testament to the power of investing in women in business. The scheme's impact extends beyond individual success stories, contributing to a more diverse and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Category:
Business