A fully funded education programme is launching in South Yorkshire to train a new generation of women angel investors and increase funding for early-stage companies.

The TECH SY x Lifted Angel Academy will support up to 20 women from across the region, including professionals, senior leaders and entrepreneurs. Starting in June 2026, the initiative aims to address the historic underrepresentation of women in early-stage investment networks.

The scheme is being delivered by Lifted Ventures, an organisation focused on early-stage capital, in partnership with TECH SY. Funding is provided by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology via Barnsley Council’s "Tech Town" status, alongside backing from the British Business Bank and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.

Participants will take part in expert-led workshops and networking events covering early-stage finance, due diligence, portfolio management and how to support founders after investment.

According to UK industry data, women make up a small minority of the country’s angel investor community. This imbalance often impacts female-founded businesses, as diverse investor groups are statistically more likely to back underrepresented entrepreneurs.

Tracey Johnson, of TECH SY, said: “South Yorkshire has huge ambition, innovation and entrepreneurial talent, and we know that diverse investment communities are essential to unlocking the region’s full potential. This programme is an important step in creating more opportunities, strengthening the ecosystem that supports ambitious businesses to start and scale here, and for women to actively shape the future of investment, innovation and business growth across South Yorkshire.”

Jordan Dargue, co-founder of Lifted Ventures, said: “Supporting more women to engage with angel investment is vital to building a stronger and more inclusive economy across South Yorkshire. We know there is significant untapped potential amongst women who are interested in investing but have never had access to the networks, knowledge or opportunities to get started. The Next Wave of Women Angels in South Yorkshire is about changing that by creating a supportive environment where women can build confidence, learn together and become active participants in shaping the future economy of the region.”

Helen Oldham added: “Increasing the number of women angel investors has the power to transform access to finance for founders and strengthen regional economies. South Yorkshire already has incredible momentum across tech, innovation and entrepreneurship, and this programme is about ensuring more women are part of that growth story from an investment perspective.”

Applications for the 20 available places are now open.