FoundHer Networking

Engagement Event - 10.02.2026

Attendance Demographic

• Female-founded SMEs and business owners from Havering, Barking
  and Dagenham.

• CEME leadership including Head of Skills and Partnership Lead.

Key Objectives from Events

• Raise awareness of the project and its relevance to local female-led SMEs.

• Encourage engagement ahead of the upcoming consultation period.

• Understand barriers to entry faced by women inbusiness locally.

• Strengthen relationships with CEME and expand local networks.

Key Takeaways

• Project awareness was initially low, but interest increased once the project’s benefits and opportunities for SMEs were outlined. Attendees shared common structural and practical barriers faced by female business owners locally, and the session helped establish new contacts, expanding engagement with this audience. CEME leadership also offered support during the consultation period.

• Reef attended and supported CEME’s FoundHers session—the first event of its kind in Havering—bringing together women-led SMEs from across the borough and neighbouring Barking & Dagenham. I introduced the project, highlighted opportunities for local businesses to engage, and encouraged early participation in the consultation to help shape outcomes.

• The discussion was constructive and provided valuable networking opportunities, including a follow-up meeting with CEME’s Head of Skills and Partnership Lead to explore how CEME can support communications and engagement during the consultation. Overall, the event was a positive step in raising awareness and strengthening relationships with female-led SMEs in the borough.