Queen’s University Belfast welcomed 12 emerging female founders to an inspiring WE Innovate networking lunch, designed to connect participants with experienced mentors from the University’s alumni and friends community. The event formed a key part of the WE Innovate programme, which supports women on their entrepreneurial journey through skills development, peer learning and access to specialist workshops.

Each founder was paired with an industry expert for a working lunch, enabling focused, one‑to‑one conversations on topics ranging from technology development and branding to scaling, funding and team leadership.

Founder Dr Beckie Ingram,  VacTimmune, described the session as both motivating and practical:

“The WE Innovate networking lunch was a fantastic experience. I was paired with someone whose advice was both practical and inspiring, from technical guidance on documenting processes to the reminder that, as founders, we should take time to celebrate the big wins with our teams along the way.”

Programme participant Dr Huanhuan Li, Founder of Visipatch, was partnered with Dr Susan Kelly, Founder of Aflo, and reflected on the value of connecting with an established female entrepreneur:

“Susan is a remarkably determined female founder. I deeply admire her courage, and our conversation was incredibly motivating for me.”

Supporting the Next Generation of Women Innovators

The WE Innovate programme continues to strengthen Queen’s commitment to widening participation in entrepreneurship and increasing opportunities for women in innovation. Through mentorship, peer learning and access to industry expertise, the programme ensures that female founders across diverse sectors have the tools, confidence and networks needed to thrive.

Alumni contributor Alan Carson, Co-Founder of Cloudsmith, spoke about his motivations to get involved and the importance of community support:

“I loved my time at university and have lots of family connections to Queen’s, so it is great to be back supporting the WE Innovate programme. I know firsthand how the right conversation or introduction can make a difference to founders starting out, so I’m pleased to share my experience and help where I can. As a Software NI Board Member, we are keen to promote the amazing talent we have in the region, so it was brilliant to meet some awesome software entrepreneurs at today’s event.”

Media

Aoife McNabb a.mcnabb@qub.ac.uk