NatWest Launches Expert in Residence Programme to Help Female Entrepreneurs

NatWest, a major retail and commercial bank in the United Kingdom, announced that it has launched its Expert in Residence programme across the UK, dedicating 28 roles based in branches and communities to help female entrepreneurs realise their growth ambitions. The initiative is launched in conjunction with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The 28 Expert in Residence roles will be available to host events, provide expert insight and advice on business finance, and support LEPs to access additional expertise to help female-led businesses achieve their potential. These roles will also support with lending and banking services in partnership with specialists from the bank.

Expert in Residence is the latest action taken by the bank following the Rose Review of Female Entrepreneurship, co-authored by NatWest's CEO Alison Rose. The review  found that a key enabler to change the UKs female business environment for the better, is access to local, trusted and relatable expertise. Expert in Residence aims to offer that enabler, as well as providing the improved access to finance that will allow female entrepreneurs to grow their business further. 

Alison Rose, CEO, NatWest Group said: "We are delighted to be working with BEIS and the LEP Network to roll out NatWest's Expert in Residence programme across the UK, and I encourage businesses to reach out to their local Expert in Residence via their LEP or Growth hub in order to advantage of what they can offer – alongside the wider package of support available."