Barclays Female Founder Accelerator 2023 member
Emizio

Emizio is the next-generation platform supporting professional services firms with their carbon management.
The conventional process for reporting companies is both resource intensive and error-prone. This results in unnecessary cost, reputational risk and regulatory liability.
Why did you apply for the Female Founder Accelerator?
I am a first time female founder, Emizio is extremely challenging, exciting and rewarding and I want to make sure that I access any beneficial training to benefit the business. I am also keen to be in contact with other female founders as the journey as CEO and Founder can sometimes be quite isolating.
Do you think there's a need for programmes like this for Female Founders?
Yes, especially in tech startups. The majority of investors and employees I meet on a day to day business are male. Successful female founders are still a minority. I personally benefit greatly from peer to peer support with those in a similar position.
Why did you want to start your business?
I am passionate about sustainability and wanted to work on something that I felt genuinely can make an impact. I also felt that I was competent and resilient enough to work through the challenges of a new business. I am excited to build a business that is beneficial for customers, investors and every individual who works for and with Emizio.
What are you looking to get out of this programme?
New insights into financial aspects of business as well as pitch practice. Hopefully new connections and insights into women leading other businesses.
Which entrepreneur inspires you the most and why?
Whitney Herd, Bumble. There are several entrepreneurs that inspire me but I very much relate to Whitney - she is a female of a similar age, who has managed to create Bumble and change outdated gender stereotypes within the dating app industry.
What has been your biggest win in your entrepreneurial journey?
Finding my teammate, Alex Whyte.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Working with family in business (my husband and brother have been very involved).
Where did you go for business advice and how did it help you?
I established an advisory board early on who have been invaluable.
What drives you to make your business a success?
I believe the world needs Emizio. I believe we have the chance to create a product that can genuinely make a different to users and as a result contribute to businesses becoming more sustainable and reducing their emissions.
What advice would you give other founders thinking about starting their own business?
Firstly, it is such a difficult and all consuming challenge that you have to be extremely focused and determined to make it work, which can only come from a real desire to make the business work that lies within. Dont start a business with more superfluous reasons, such as just monetary or prestige, as this will be more difficult for you. Dont start a business just because you think its cool and would be fun. Not every individual has to be an entrepreneur. Make sure you have thought about the sacrifices you'll have to make, and be comfortable with that.