Aspiring female entrepreneurs and businesswomen are set to receive a boost thanks to Women in Football’s (WIF) continued partnership with global small business platform Xero.
For a third consecutive year, the two organisations are offering promising businesses a comprehensive package of support, in a ‘game of two halves’ format, through the Women in Football and Xero Small Business Programme.
The first half of the programme develops participants’ enterprise skills, knowledge and professional networks. Seven in-person and online workshop sessions cover topics including business finance, starting or growing your business, branding, networking and being an inclusive employer. The second half provides one-to-one mentoring, matching up the entrepreneurs with WIF members who have already built successful businesses of their own.
WIF CEO Yvonne Harrison said: “It’s been a joy to watch this year’s cohort flourish, and I’m thrilled we can build on this, extending our partnership with Xero to impact even more women. I know there are plenty waiting in the wings! When like-minded organisations work together, great things can happen, and I look forward to increasing our collective impact.”
The programme comprises a combination of online and in-person sessions, kicking off on 13 January 2026, and concluding at the end of November next year. WIF members interested in applying can register their interest now and have until midnight on Sunday 14 December 2025 to fill out the application form by.
Those not currently a member can apply to join WIF for free.
Additional Quotes
Niamh Power, Head of Marketing UK at Xero
“We know that running a small business can be challenging, and our research highlights that financial confidence remains a key hurdle for many, especially female entrepreneurs who are more likely to say they’re ‘not a numbers person’. That’s why we are delighted to build on our partnership with WIF to deliver this programme for a third consecutive year to support even more talented women in business. The programme builds the business know-how and financial confidence they need to overcome barriers, unlock new opportunities, and take their business to the next level.”
Sarah Collins, Women in Football’s Client Services Manager
“Leading on this programme with Xero, an organisation that shares our core values, has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve loved watching female small business owners grow in confidence, build strong bonds with one another, create a support network that lasts far beyond the sessions and see their businesses thrive.”
About Xero:
Xero is a cloud-based accounting software platform that connects small business owners with their accountant or bookkeeper, banks and an ecosystem of apps and financial services to help them run their business. Through a range of partnerships, Xero is also aiming to empower and champion women in business and football.
About Women in Football
Women in Football (WIF) is a vibrant professional network of 12,000 people of all genders who support equality in the football industry. We’re taking action to level the playing field for all roles, on and off the pitch, in women’s and men’s football. We celebrate women’s achievements, campaign against sexism, and empower our members through inspirational networking and professional development opportunities. We support organisations to become truly genderinclusive employers and stand ready to work with any stakeholders who share our vision of a gender-equal future for football. To find out more visit www.womeninfootball.co.uk.
