Did you know that female business owners in the North East feel the most supported and are thriving more than anywhere else in the UK?
Recent research by Sage revealed that the North East ranked highest for women feeling supported when starting a business (81%) and being able to manage work–life balance (69%). The South West and Greater London followed, but it is the North East that leads the way in creating an environment where women feel confident, encouraged and ready to succeed.
The Rose Review Progress Report reinforces this momentum. Last year, more than 3,100 new companies were founded by women in the North East – a 3.1% increase on 2022. Women now represent 21% of the region’s 156,000 businesses, contributing hugely to the local economy and shaping the future of entrepreneurship here.
These findings reflect what I see every day through my coaching for female business owners. Many of the women I’ve worked with have received fully funded support through BIPC North East, and it’s inspiring to see how quickly their confidence, clarity and growth accelerate with the right guidance.
Why coaching for female business owners creates faster growth
Having run businesses for more than 20 years – including a PR and marketing company and now UniqueThinking – I’ve learned that coaching is not a luxury. For many women, it becomes the bridge between feeling overwhelmed and feeling empowered.
Here’s why coaching for female business owners is so powerful:
1. Accountability creates consistency
Most business owners know the tasks that will help them grow, but taking action consistently is the challenge. Coaching provides structure, accountability and regular check-ins, helping you stay on track even when motivation dips.
2. Support you can’t always find elsewhere
Business can be a lonely place, especially for women juggling childcare, careers and life. Coaching offers a confidential, supportive space where you can speak openly about challenges, fears and goals without judgement.
3. Identity and mindset shifts
Women often face unique mindset barriers – imposter syndrome, perfectionism, fear of visibility, people-pleasing or comparison. Coaching helps you rewire these beliefs so you can lead with confidence instead of doubt.
This combination of mindset work, accountability and strategic support is exactly why I created UniqueThinking. My mission is to help women get further faster and build a business that aligns with their strengths, energy and identity.
A growing support ecosystem for women in business
One of the North East’s strengths is its community. Alongside the fantastic support from BIPC North East, there are many enterprise agencies, co-working hubs, business spaces and networking groups that champion local female founders.
Women-only networking events have become increasingly popular, offering safe, uplifting spaces where women can connect without pressure. These communities help female founders build their networks, share experiences and gain confidence in environments that feel welcoming and encouraging.
Support isn’t just for start-ups. Many women I work with are years into their business and still crave clarity, structured planning, confidence building or help navigating the next stage of growth. Coaching for female business owners supports women at every stage — whether you’re just starting out or ready to scale.
How uniquethinking can support you
As the Business and Confidence Coach for BIPC North East, I offer fully funded coaching for female business owners and other entrepreneurs across the region. Many women have already benefited from one-to-one sessions that combine confidence coaching, practical planning and business development support.
Through UniqueThinking, I also offer private/business-coaching coaching designed specifically for female founders who want to:
– grow confidence, resilience and self-belief
– identify and shift limiting beliefs holding them back
– improve visibility online and offline
– build or refine business plans
– increase sales without pressure or overwhelm
– take clear, consistent action
– create a business that feels sustainable and aligned
You can choose from one-to-one sessions, four-week programmes or longer-term coaching to support deeper mindset and business growth.
Whether you’re navigating self-doubt, struggling with clarity or feeling ready for your next level, coaching for female business owners offers support that’s tailored to you, your goals and your business journey.
Your turn
If you’re a woman running a business in the North East, which organisations supported you when you were starting out? Who helped, inspired or encouraged you on your journey?
I’d love to hear your experiences, and if you’re ready for more clarity, confidence and support, you’re always welcome to reach out for coaching for female business owners through UniqueThinking below.