A new fully funded programme aiming to boost the number of women entrepreneurs in Scotland has officially launched. Backed by the Ecosystem Pathways Fund and the Scottish Government, FeMade is a first-of-its-kind initiative that helps women turn early-stage ideas into viable products and services — bridging the gender gap in innovation and entrepreneurship.
The programme is being delivered by STEP, Central Scotland’s leading business support organisation, known as The Original Business Incubator and Accelerator®. STEP successfully secured funding through the Ecosystem Pathways Fund to roll out FeMade across Scotland. With over 40 years’ experience supporting businesses of all sizes, STEP provides end-to-end enterprise support, including consultancy, training, incubation and strategic development services.
What FeMade Offers
Participants in FeMade will benefit from a unique blend of personalised and practical support, including:
- 1:1 sessions with a dedicated business adviser
- 1:1 confidence coaching sessions
- Expert-led consultancy support
- Live and on-demand workshops
- A final showcase event
- Ongoing access to a peer support alumni network
Applications are now open for a minimum of 40 places, with the potential to support more depending on participant needs.
Why FeMade?
FeMade has been created in direct response to the Scottish Government’s Pathways: A New Approach for Women in Entrepreneurship report, which found that women continue to face unique and persistent barriers when it comes to launching businesses. These include limited access to technical skills, lower confidence, fewer industry contacts and a lack of inclusive support structures.
Many women have strong business or product ideas, but lack the knowledge, tools or encouragement to take the first step. FeMade is designed to break that cycle — meeting women where they are and providing a tailored combination of technical, business and personal development support to turn potential into real-world impact.
Importantly, the programme is fully funded by the Ecosystem Pathways Fund and the Scottish Government — ensuring access is free and inclusive to all eligible participants, regardless of financial circumstances.
Designed for Women, Backed by Insight
“Even when women have brilliant ideas, they often lack the technical confidence, industry connections, or support structures to take them further,” said Jenn McArthur, Marketing and Business Development Director at STEP. “FeMade is about removing those barriers — giving women the expert help, business mentoring and personal support they need to thrive.
Who knows, we might even have the next television or telephone on our hands. Scotland has a rich history of world-changing inventions and it’s time more women had the backing to lead the next chapter of that story.”
“This isn’t just about business,” added Linda Letford, Programme Coordinator. “It’s about unlocking potential. FeMade helps women build the confidence to bring their ideas to life, backed by a support system that understands their journey.”
“We’re delighted to support the launch of FeMade through the Ecosystem Pathways Fund,” said Lorraine Maginnis, Business Growth Partner at Inspirent, who administer the fund on behalf of the Scottish Government. “This programme shows a real understanding of the barriers women can face when turning innovative ideas into action. By offering holistic support, from technical help to confidence building, FeMade is a great example of the kind of initiative inspired by the Ecosystem Pathways Fund.”
Mike Barclay, Director of Business Support at STEP, added: “We’re delighted to be delivering FeMade as part of Scotland’s drive to widen participation in entrepreneurship. At STEP, we’ve supported thousands of businesses over the past 40 years, and this programme is a bold and timely addition.”
Who Should Apply
FeMade is open to women in Scotland who have an early-stage business idea — particularly those who feel unsure how to take their first step. No previous experience in business or product development is required.
To learn more or apply, visit: www.stepscotland.co.uk/Femade
