online network, media & events platform for purpose led entrepreneurs.
“When it comes to entrepreneurship, according to the OECD, women setting up a business attract less funding than men, and suffer from the general lack of support for founders.”
[Source: The FT]
That’s why Found & Flourish exists
Who we are
Found and Flourish is a growing network, online membership, media & events platform, aimed at connecting and educating purpose led entrepreneurial and self-employed women and non-binary people. We launched in September 2018. Our mission is to close the opportunity gap for underrepresented people
What we do
We support founders to stay sane, learn valuable insights and provide an ambitious, empowering network through our online membership, events and Founders interviews. Our ultimate goal, through the power of community, is for people to feel empowered with the tools they need to build profitable and sustainable businesses whilst enjoying the process along the way.
why we do it
We exist because we believe business should be a place of equity, creativity and femininity. As it stands there is not enough support for women and non-binary people in the entrepreneurial space and these incredible people are still wildly overlooked. We want to be a part of the change we want to see in the world and believe creating this safe space is a good place to start.
Our Vision
Our vision is a world where more women have the confidence, knowledge and connections to launch successful businesses in a way that is authentic to their own values and is designed around their ideal lifestyle. We see a world where there is less oppression of femininity, creativity and individuality in business, and where we’re all empowered to make more conscious decisions about our careers, passions and methods of generating income.
Psst! We donate at least 10% of our profits every month to a cause close to our hearts, email us and let us know of a charity or cause you think we should know about.
Our values
1. We must learn to enjoy the process
In life, there is no end-game. All we have is the present moment and how we choose to use it. It is crucial that whatever businesses we endeavour to create, we surrender to embracing the process, rather than viewing it as a means to an end. We aspire to be light to lift and not take it all too seriously.
2. The workplace is changing
The concept of 9 to 5 work schedules is outdated. Our lives and careers are becoming intrinsically linked and boundaries are blurred. Technology has irreversibly changed the workplace, but we need to make it work for us rather than take us hostage.
3. We’re all winging it
Nobody was born with an innate ability to pitch for investment or deliver a content marketing strategy. We’re all a culmination of our experiences, influences and knowledge gathered throughout our lives. We must not be intimidated by others or let our fears block the road ahead.
4. There is a place for femininity in business
The next phase of female empowerment in business requires us to be loyal to our strengths, authentic in our approach and not to simply emanate existing power structures. We must stay true to ourselves, be sharp on our value and resist the urge to simply “fit in”.
5. It is entirely possible to manifest your business idea into a profitable reality
You simply need to be armed with the right knowledge, the right connections and the right mindset.
6. Connection and community are incredibly powerful
Entrepreneurship can be an incredibly lonely existence, but you are not alone. By coming together, we eliminate loneliness, stir creativity and foster incredible friendships.
7. We are capable of more than we think
Whatever you think you can do, there’s more within you. Growth is found at the edge of our comfort zones and you will always surprise yourself with your resiliency, aptitude and energy.
8. Comparison and expectation is the root of unhappiness
The path to a successful business won’t look remotely like you’d planned, and nothing like anybody else’s! Do not tie yourself closely to expectations within particular timeframes or compare yourself to others, this will only create a very unhappy existence.
9. You are not an island
You do not need to have all the answers, all the skills, all the connections and do all the work. Surround yourself with great people and ask them for help. Give help willingly and openly.
10. Choose the adventure
It is better to have risked, failed and lived than to play safe and never know. Choose the adventure, you’ll never regret it.
11. Ideas change the world
If you can imagine a better future, then create it. Everyone has the power to change the world with a great idea that’s an alternative to the status quo.
12. Wellbeing is essential to success
Burnout, overwhelm and stress will ruin your business if you allow it. Wellbeing is absolutely essential for your creativity and productivity. Look after yourself, first and foremost.
- love notes from the community -
I can not tell you how amazing it’s been to feel so supported during this time. These Hugs & Brunch meet-ups are the highlight of my week.
I joined Found & Flourish because I found business really lonely but I never thought I'd actually find clients within the community too. This has been an absolute game changer to my business!
Found & Flourish has supported me in so many ways, from meeting fellow members to advice on how to grow my business, I couldn't reccommend it enough and I'm so pleased I joined this brilliant community. Whether you're starting up a side-hustle or you're running a full time business I couldn't reccommend this membership enough!
Found & Flourish is the business family you always wish you could have - and now you can! Often in business it can feel isolating or lonely with hoards of faceless business groups promising support. But Lara is a genuine caring leader of FF and the real deal. She doesn’t market herself as your best friend but the kindness, generosity and support of the company she has built will feel like a business filtered version of that. FF has kept me going during my own personal tumultuous year. And connected me with some fabulous women.
We are a lucky tribe, Lara is always going above and beyond to delight and lighten the load so that side-hustling solopreneurs like me can focus in our zones of genius with the time we have and feel fully supported in our goals. Lara is creative, genuine and an expert on all things community.
Lara has created something truly unique with the Found & Flourish community and I am delighted I made the decision to become a member. Although I work with a co-founder, stepping away from the comfort blanket of corporate life after 20 years was tough but the support, friendship and practical help I’ve received through the F&F community has been amazing. Lara has a generous spirit and a genuine desire to help other women succeed: through her creativity and drive, the community delivers masterclasses, provides inspiration, creates fantastic connections, encourages accountability, and above all, cheers others on. I would wholeheartedly recommend working with Lara and getting to know the Found & Flourish community!
When I went to my first F&F brunch I had decided it was time to reach out and grow my network. I didn’t really know what to expect but connected with the most amazing amazing women. I’ve since learned about brand partnerships and PR which has been a total game changer for my business. I’m constantly finding inspiration in their network of awesome business women.
Let’s face it, working for yourself can feel isolating and dark at times. Lara’s warm energy and intelligence infuses her events with friendships and great conversations when you need them most, she’s the ultimate host!
You will be so full of oxytocin when you leave an F&F event you won't know which way the station is.