Hampshire Women’s Business Group: Fostering Connection and Support
Founded by Trudy Simmons, 50, in February 2017, the Hampshire Women’s Business Group provides a platform for women entrepreneurs to connect, seek guidance, and support each other in managing their businesses.
The group has grown to include over 1,900 members, creating a community for shared experiences and mutual assistance.
Simmons initiated the group after experiencing burnout, which left her feeling isolated. She found managing the complexities of business ownership challenging and wanted to create a supportive environment for others facing similar struggles.
The community primarily interacts through a Facebook group, coupled with both online and in-person networking events, enabling local businesswomen to share their stories and expand their reach.
Simmons states, “It’s a place where they can come and be themselves and chat and laugh and get to know each other. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve created and running this group really does bring me so much joy.”
She emphasizes, “Networking really is the quickest and simplest way to grow your business, grow your confidence and grow your audience of potential new customers.”
Beyond this initiative, Trudy Simmons is the founder of The Daisy Chain Group, a coaching company, and she also serves as a business mentor, speaker, author, and procrastination-busting coach, assisting clients globally.
Simmons explains, “I help women entrepreneurs to know their potential, grow their confidence and create visibility. I do this by working with them to find what they want to do, why they want to do it and how to get it done.”
She adds, “From working with me, my clients find the motivation, encouragement and support that we all need to smash the glass ceiling and create happy businesses.”
