At Epping Forest District Council (EFDC), we believe in the transformative power of women-led businesses. That’s why, in partnership with Deyton Bell, we are proud to present the Empowering Epping Forest Female Entrepreneurs programme! A 100 % free initiative aimed at supporting local women to start and grow their businesses.
What the Programme Offers:
Free, practical workshops: Held both online and in person across Chigwell, Loughton, Waltham Abbey and other venues. Topics range from business planning and marketing to branding, productivity tools, sales techniques, and even strategies for running a business from home.
One-to-one mentoring & expert support: Participants receive tailored coaching from experienced advisors and industry specialists. Whether it’s finance, social media, recruitment, or scaling strategy, support is delivered to best suit each entrepreneur’s needs.
Flexible, peer-focused model: We understand the pressures of balancing work, family, and business. That’s why our sessions are flexible, offering phone calls, group chats, and workshops at times that fit around participants’ lifestyles.
Why it Matters:
Building Confidence & Mindset: We equip women to tackle fears like failure and self-doubt, helping them realise their ambitions through mindset coaching.
From Idea to First Sale: Catering to pre‑startups as well as businesses in their first three years, our framework supports everything from developing an idea to gaining first customers and beyond.
Accelerating Impact: With over 500 support hours already delivered, participants have launched new ventures and created local jobs. The result? A more vibrant, diverse economy in our district.
Voices from the Community
“The Empowering Epping Forest programme was an amazing opportunity to learn vital skills in entrepreneurship from incredible mentors. I was able to apply this learning in so many practical ways.”
— Lisa, participant
“Such a useful and empowering programme. I’ve learnt that it is possible for me to run a business with my pottery experience.”
— Laura, participant
Endorsement from EFDC
Cllr Holly Whitbread, Portfolio Holder for Finance and Economic Development, says:
“We’re incredibly proud to support the Empowering Epping Forest Female Entrepreneur Programme for another year. This initiative is about more than just business—it’s about giving local women the confidence, tools, and community they need to thrive on their own terms.”
How to Get Involved
Who it’s for: Female residents age 16+, from budding entrepreneurs to early-stage business owners within three years of trading. No previous qualifications required—just a strong idea, determination, and drive.
What it costs: Nothing. 100% free, with funding provided via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in partnership with EFDC.
Ready to Start?
If you’re a woman in Epping Forest with a business idea, or maybe you’re already running a business and seeking support… this is your moment. To register your interest, visit programme’s website and complete an online form – https://eeffe.deytonbell.com/
Then sit back and wait for a friendly call to from the team to understand your needs and map our your personalised support plan.
Join us today and let’s build the future of female entrepreneurship in Epping Forest… together!