The Evolve Academy has become a cornerstone of female entrepreneurship, with its journey beginning in 2021. Now in its third year, the programme has grown and evolved significantly, transforming into a hybrid cross-border initiative that continues to expand its impact. Each year, the Academy builds upon its successes, refining and enhancing the experience for participants.
Proudly Sponsored by Tarasis Enterprises
The Evolve Academy is funded and operated by Tarasis Enterprises, through the Tarasis Foundation, showcasing the company’s dedication to supporting women in business. This year, the Academy partnered with Danske Bank, whose expertise and resources enriched the programme, and selected Glow NI as its charity partner. All proceeds from this year’s programme were donated to Glow NI, a Belfast-based organisation committed to empowering women and girls with essential life skills, confidence, and self-esteem.
The 2024 Programme: A Bespoke Hybrid Learning Experience
This year’s Evolve Academy embraced a hybrid structure, combining in-person and online sessions for an engaging and accessible experience. The programme welcomed 28 passionate participants, from aspiring entrepreneurs to established business owners, offering them an immersive journey of education and networking.
Inspiring Leadership and Memorable Moments
The closing event was a highlight of the programme, beautifully hosted by the accomplished Sarah Travers. Attendees enjoyed a keynote speech by Lord Mayor Sarah Duffy, who celebrated the resilience and creativity of female entrepreneurs. The event also featured the highly anticipated Pitch Competition, where eight finalists showcased their business ideas to a panel of judges.
Each finalist was awarded £250 in recognition of their exceptional efforts, while Shauna Corr from Tapping into Success claimed the top prize of £1,000 for her outstanding pitch.
Join Us in 2025
The Evolve Academy team is already planning for the next cohort, set to launch in September 2025. Applications will open in early summer, providing another opportunity for women entrepreneurs to benefit from this transformative programme.
Stay updated on announcements, speaker lineups, and application details by following us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. You can also sign up for our mailing list to ensure you don’t miss out on the exciting launch of Evolve Academy 2025.
Visit www.evolvewomen.org for more.
