IN4 Group Social Impact Report 2024

OUTPUTS & IMPACT FreelanceHER 100

FreelanceHER Salford

This in-person programme specifically targeted Salfordian women, responding to research indicating a significant decline in local freelancing activity - down by over 35% in the past year. Funded by Salford City Council, this initiative addresses barriers unique to the borough.

So far, one full-day workshop has been delivered, supporting 10 women in exploring new business ideas. This session provided a hands-on, collaborative environment to spark innovation and equip participants with practical tools for entrepreneurship.

The FreelanceHER programme has been a highly impactful experience for its beneficiaries, empowering them with the confidence, skills, and community support to pursue their entrepreneurial goals. Through expert-led workshops, peer mentoring, and access to valuable resources, the programme has created a transformative environment where women feel equipped to overcome challenges and build sustainable businesses. Participants highlighted the inclusive, collaborative nature of the programme and the practical guidance it offered as key drivers of its success.

FreelanceHER Online

This fully online programme has successfully supported two cohorts of participants.

Cohort 1: Delivered over six weeks, this cohort served 23 individuals through a combination of: • Four workshops led by industry experts on key entrepreneurial topics: entrepreneurial mindset, business startup basics, finance and sales, and digital marketing • Two peer mentoring sessions facilitated by specialist external partners. Participants were grouped based on their interests and experience, ensuring tailored support and collaboration with mentors whose expertise aligned with their goals Cohort 2: Delivered over four weeks, this cohort supported 27 individuals through the workshop series alone, offering a more streamlined programme

Key Outputs

60

3 Cohorts facilitated

“A huge thanks for the support and guidance I’ve received, I now have a clear roadmap for my startup and a better understanding of the practical steps required to bring it to life. I am particularly grateful for the introductions to resources like the BIPC and the ongoing opportunities for learning, such as the workshops and one-on-one sessions with business advisors. Overall, the programme has been a transformative experience, and I am excited to continue building on the

Individuals enrolled on programmes

Progression

67% 61% 3%

Have improved their knowledge of starting a business

Plan to start a new business

Have already set up their own new business to date

foundation it has provided.” FreelanceHER Participant

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