We don't need no education: the role of mentoring in the wider enterprise eco-system

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of mentoring in the wider enterprise eco-system, with a specific focus on the potential of on-line mentoring for women's enterprise. Design/methodology/approach - The paper offers insights into the approach adopted in taking mentoring experience and practice into a new field as part of a European Commission-funded project. Findings - Findings to date highlight the need for support amongst women entrepreneurs, across a range of business sectors, in planning for and pursuing business growth. More specifically, the need for bespoke support and advice is highlighted, given that entrepreneurs are not a homogenous group and in light of the additional barriers that women encounter in business start-up and growth. Originality/value - The paper describes what is considered to be a unique programme being delivered in the UK, with findings holding wider applicability for policy makers, business support organisations and practitioners across jurisdictions.