Innovate UK reverses decision and fully funds ‘Women in Innovation’ awards following social media campaign
In May 2024, Innovate UK launched the ‘Women in Innovation’ competition with £4 million in funding for 50 women entrepreneurs tackling societal challenges through innovation. However, in August 2024, they announced cutting the grants by 50%. After a viral social media campaign led by femtech founder Emma Jarvis, they agreed to reinstate full funding. The ‘Let’s Fund More Women’ group demanded an apology from Innovate UK’s CEO and full reinstatement of the awards, which was finally confirmed by the organization. Innovate UK admitted their mistake in cutting the grants and expressed their commitment to supporting women innovators. This U-turn in funding decision has been welcomed by the community and government officials, highlighting the importance of equitable support for female tech founders in the industry.
