The Dales Business Women network, which aims to connect and empower women in business throughout the Yorkshire Dales, has been relaunched to promote innovation in rural communities. The professional, entrepreneurial, and self-employed women of the Dales and surrounding areas form a vital support and advice system to those facing the challenges of running a business in rural settings.

The group was founded seven years ago and now has new leadership by photographer Katy Howe and Alison Laws, senior economic development officer at North Yorkshire Council. Their focus is on enhancing the network’s presence in the area and providing local women with a platform to communicate, share ideas, and fuel business development.

North Yorkshire is full of entrepreneurial women who share a desire to succeed. Many think there’s little scope for business in the countryside, but hopefully this group is changing the dial for that. The Dales and surrounding areas are full of industrious women doing a tremendous amount of good.

Noting this, North Yorkshire Council leader, Cllr Carl Les, also spoke to the connectivity presented in rural settings: “Groups like Dales Business Women are really important for building connections, idea-sharing, and supporting business growth. In more remote areas, such networks are key to overcoming rural isolation challenges.”

For Carolyn Frank, in charge of the Federation of Small Businesses’ (FSB) development in York and North Yorkshire, she has a personal passion for the rebranding exercise. “Having a local network is vital to small businesses, whether it’s expanding contacts, discovering new opportunities, or getting business advice. Most importantly, it helps build strong, authentic relationships that support business owners through the ups and downs.”

A very friendly and proactive group, the meeting will be held monthly, with varying dates and times to suit everyone’s convenience. The relaunch took place at the Black Bull in Moulton, just off the Richmond road, and included a talk by Paula Richardson of Smart Bee Sales on the strategy for getting the most out of the final few sales before Christmas.

Dales Business Women network is well set to be a catalyst for new business collaboration and growth in North Yorkshire, and it offers a platform for women in enterprise to thrive.