AccelerateHER is a vibrant community on a mission to back female and non-binary founders across the UK. Through accelerators, masterclasses, mentoring, investor readiness support, and powerful networks, we help founders grow, connect, and lead. We work hand-in-hand with Investing Women Angels to open up even more opportunities for founders to thrive.
This code of conduct outlines the values we uphold and the behaviours we expect within our network, both online and offline. This Code applies to all interactions – including in-person events, online communities, emails, direct messages, and social platforms managed by AccelerateHER.
1. Inclusivity at the Core
We are committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming, and empowering environment for all members.
· AccelerateHER exists to support women founders and we define ‘woman’ in the broadest and most inclusive sense. This includes cisgender women, trans women, non-binary and gender-diverse people who face similar systemic barriers in business.
· While we operate within the framework of the Equality Act 2010, we know that gender inequality is experienced across a spectrum of identities, and we are committed to creating spaces that are safe, affirming, and supportive for all marginalised genders. Our work is about increasing growth, backing, and visibility for those historically underrepresented, and we believe inclusivity is essential to achieving that goal.
· We celebrate diversity across race, ethnicity, nationality, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, socioeconomic background, and more.
· Discrimination, bullying, intimidation, harassment, or exclusion of any kind will not be tolerated.
· We are also committed to making our events, content, and community spaces as accessible as possible. If you have any access needs, whether related to mobility, communication, sensory experience, or anything else, please let us know so we can support you.
2. If you’re a man at an AccelerateHER event
We’re glad you’re here. AccelerateHER is a community designed specifically to support women and non-binary founders, and your presence means a lot.
By joining us, we ask that you listen with openness, take up space thoughtfully, and help us create an environment that centres and amplifies underrepresented voices.
This is a space where women and non-binary people lead the conversation. We encourage you to support, learn, and connect, without dominating or redirecting the focus.
Thank you for being part of a community working toward a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
3. Mutual Respect and Collaboration over Competition
We believe in growing together and lifting one another up, while treating everyone with dignity, respect, and empathy.
· We listen actively and engage in conversations with compassion and curiosity. We give constructive feedback with the intent to support, not diminish. We respect different perspectives, experiences, and journeys.
· We foster a spirit of generosity, support, and knowledge-sharing. We celebrate each other’s wins and offer a hand during challenges.
· During events and workshops, you may be asked to share information about your business or business idea. We ask that everyone that takes part treats what they hear as confidential. However, the onus is on founders to refrain from sharing highly confidential information if they do not feel comfortable to do so.
· We’re here to create a culture of trust – please don’t share screenshots, stories, or personal information without permission.
4. Authentic Participation
We’re here to build genuine connections and support one another. While we celebrate your business and accomplishments, we ask that you share them in a way that’s respectful of the community space.
· Light-touch self-promotion is welcome – feel free to share wins, launches, or offerings in the context of conversation or when relevant.
· No spamming or repetitive promotions. Please don’t use this community as a place for unsolicited sales pitches or advertising. Selling products or services directly within the community space, or cold-messaging members without consent, is not permitted.
· Aim to participate organically: share insights, ask thoughtful questions, support others, and let relationships grow naturally from there.
5. Zero Tolerance for Harmful Behaviour
We are proactive in preventing harm and addressing issues when they arise.
· Anyone engaging in discriminatory, harassing, or abusive behaviour will be subject to investigation and appropriate action, which may include immediate removal from the network or exclusion from future events. .
· We encourage reporting any misconduct to the CEO and/or Chair of AccelerateHER, who will take all reports seriously and act with care and confidentiality.
6. Uplifting the Mission
Everything we do should reflect our shared mission.
· To champion women in entrepreneurship.
· To increase access to opportunity, visibility, and resources.
Need Support or Have Concerns?
If you witness or experience behaviour that goes against this Code of Conduct, please contact info@accelerateher.co.uk all reports will be handled confidentially.
By being part of this community, you agree to uphold this Code of Conduct and contribute to the vibrant, safe, and inclusive environment we are building together.