Last week in Glasgow, the Women in Business entrepreneurial skills program awarded Outstanding Business Engagement in Universities.
The initiative helps Aberdeenshire mothers who want to establish a company or work for themselves while caring for their kids. Practical, sociable, and interactive courses teach how to start a customer-focused business.
The RGU Entrepreneurship and Innovation Group and Aberdeenshire Council have sponsored five successful cohorts since 2021, with two more in 2023.
Each seven-week course is online and flexible. The training boosts confidence and improves transferable soft skills for various industries while preparing women for self-employment.
RGU receives national award for Outstanding Business Engagement
“Winning this award is a testament to the passionate and committed women who have followed their entrepreneurial spirit and through their active participation have built a community of parents who continue to support one another with their ambitions,” said RGU Innovation Manager (Regional) Candace Elson.
“Working with Aberdeenshire Council on this course has been a pleasure, and we want to build on the programme following this success and the continued focus on female entrepreneurship.”
Women in Business was created to encourage and empower women with children who want to establish their own business.
For Aberdeenshire Council residents, the Scottish Government Parental Employability Support Fund (PESF) funds program places.
“I am delighted that the University has been recognised for its engagement with external organisations through this prestigious award,” said RGU Vice-Principal for Economic Development Donella Beaton. RGU had two of the three Outstanding Business Engagement finalists and one of the Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community finalists, which is encouraging.
“Enterprise is a distinctive aspect of the University’s strategy, and the Women in Business curriculum clearly reflects that and closely correlates with RGU’s strategic goal of being innovative and inclusive to build a bright future for all.
“This award is testament to the strong partnership with Aberdeenshire Council, the passion and drive of the team that delivers this programme, and the enterprising women of the North East.”
RGU’s Careers and Workforce Development in Health and Social Care in the North East of Scotland project, funded by the Scottish Government’s North East Economic Recovery and Skills Fund and delivered in collaboration with Skills Development Scotland and regional partners, was also shortlisted for Outstanding Business Engagement in Universities.