Durham University has joined Imperial College London and three other UK universities to launch the UK’s first “WE Innovate National” network aimed at supporting 150 women-led startup teams annually through a six-month program featuring masterclasses, business coaching, peer mentoring, and a £30,000 prize fund. Backed by Durham alumna Dame Alison Rose, the initiative will also host annual regional finals and a national Demo Day to connect founders with investors, peers, and experts, thereby fostering a stronger, more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.