Tell us about your organisation.

The Development Bank of Wales launched in October 2017 to help Welsh businesses start up, strengthen and grow. We offer finance from as little as £1,000 to £10 million through loans and equity investment. We work with micro to medium-sized businesses based in or willing to move to Wales.

Why are you supporting the awards?

We believe in helping to create a world where women can achieve and prosper; where everyone is valued for who they are and what they do. We want to encourage more women to start and grow their own businesses and to see more women breaking through the glass ceiling to take up directorships and board roles, in particular key leadership roles such as CEOs and Chairs . That’s why we want to celebrate the positive impact of entrepreneurial women in Wales and recognise their achievements.

Why does gender equality matter to you?

Developing our leaders and embedding inclusion in our workplace culture is important because an active and equal workforce helps to nurture talent and draw on diverse voices and ideas to make businesses truly innovative. Broadening participation in the economy can bring real economic benefit to Wales. The more women in business, the better it is for Wales as a whole.

Why do you support the work of Chwarae Teg?

We all have a role to play in building organisations where everyone matters, and where all employees can take pride in being part of something bigger. We are supporting the economy and creating opportunities for Welsh entrepreneurs who value diversity and inclusivity. That’s how we will build better, more profitable businesses where women are visible and influential across all sectors of the economy.