New support for female founders – Autumn Budget 2026

The government announced a new programme to help female founders grow their businesses in the Budget on 28 October 2026.

Alongside this, the British Business Bank announced a further £100 million commitment in the next financial year to support women-led businesses and funds. This builds on the Bank’s existing investment and aims to increase the flow of capital to female founders.

The measures provide access to finance to fund growth, rather than a new personal tax allowance.

For founders planning their next stage of growth, access to suitable finance can influence when they recruit, invest in equipment or expand into new markets. The additional support could help more women-led businesses explore those opportunities. However, the value to an individual business will depend on the available funding routes, eligibility conditions and the terms on which finance is offered.

The new growth programme’s application arrangements, launch date and qualifying requirements have not yet been confirmed.

In the meantime, founders can prepare their businesses for funding conversations, by updating your business plan, bring financial information up to date, and explain what the next stage of growth would involve. A clear cash flow forecast with sensitivities can help identify both the funding requirement and the risks.

Dan Mundroina, Private Client Tax Partner, commented: “The additional backing for women-led businesses is encouraging. To turn it into a practical opportunity, founders should make sure their financial information and growth plans are up to date and robust.”

If the Budget has raised any questions for you, book your place on our question time webinar this Friday at 9:30am. Alternatively, if you would like any further information or guidance on this topic, get in touch with your usual Kreston Reeves contact or contact us here.