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Bar finder

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United Kingdom

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Wray
forward

Launched in December 2021, Wray Forward is a free and inclusive programme to support Black businesses across the UK by giving access to knowledge, promoting ownership, and facilitating growth.

WHY WE CREATED WRAY FORWARD

Our pledge

Wray & Nephew is embedded within the Black community and Wray Forward is Wray’s way to give back.

68% of Black entrepreneurs revealed, in research conducted by Wray & Nephew in June 2023, that there are not enough business tools and resources available to Black entrepreneurs. Additionally, 29% of Black business owners have struggled to raise funds.

Recognising the need for change, the Wray Forward initiative was launched to break down these barriers. Since the start, we have partnered with Foundervine, a social enterprise and accelerator for Black businesses and entrepreneurs to help us shape a tailored programme. Together, we are leading the Wray Forward for the next generation.

What we’ve done
so far

We’ve boosted the level of female business leaders, informed positive change, and hosted more live learning sessions and workshops. It’s all about equipping our community with valuable knowledge and skills to grow and succeed. See our 2022 – 2024 programme figures below.

businesses in the community

3,812

businesses led by women

66%

hours of free learning

48+

industries represented

23+

How can you get involved?

Our goal is to turn the Wray Forward community into a self-sustaining ecosystem. Globally recognised as a hub for Black founders, providing invaluable support and resources for their growth and development.

Expert-led Workshops

Participants engage in workshops led by industry experts to gain valuable insights and skills on what it takes to build and scale your business ventures.

Dates February to October 2025

Apply now

What you'll get

Six workshops, with each workshop being led by an industry expert. They are not just focused on working on the business but a personal development piece around ‘the person behind the business’. Topics include securing brand partnerships, community building, legal and finance, as well as scaling.

Who we're looking for

Any Black entrepreneur over 25 years old is welcome to attend whatever their business stage.

Pitch Nights

Six remarkable founders are selected to have the opportunity to pitch their inspiring and growing businesses.

Dates 11th June, 3rd September, 26th November 2025

What you'll get

The opportunity to pitch and win prizes of either £3,000, £1,500 or the People’s Choice Awards prize of £500, supporting our founders to propel their ventures to new heights!

Who we're looking for

This is a great opportunity for growth stage and early-stage businesses. Please see the full terms and conditions here.

Wray Forward Mixer

These events bring entrepreneurs together to showcase their businesses and network with industry professionals. It is an open environment for our businesses offering resources, tools, and growth opportunities while fostering community support.

Dates 26th March 2025, 10th December 2025

Find out more

What you'll get

The opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs to forge meaningful connections with professionals in their fields.

Who we're looking for

Any Black entrepreneurs over 25 years old is welcome to attend whatever their business stage.

Industry Roundtable

In-depth roundtable discussions, addressing a range of various challenges in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and creating actionable solutions to be shared with the wider audience. More details soon.

What you'll get

The opportunity to be part of an open dialogue amongst fellow professionals. The session aims to enhance the Wray Forward community, identify business ecosystem challenges, and cultivate innovative strategies, tools, and resources for fostering thriving businesses.

Who we're looking for

Rising Star founders.

What our
community says

Declan Stewart (Founder of Runnel) Wray Forward Attendee 2024

I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the pitching experience. It was one of the proudest moments in my life as an entrepreneur.

Henry McNeill (Founder of Known Source) Wray Forward Attendee 2024

Thank you so much. I’m still buzzing. And the people in the room were so supportive, interesting, and insightful. Definitely built up some long-term connections!! I couldn’t appreciate it more!

Gbemi Shitta (Founder of Sweet Dough Things) Wray Forward Attendee 2024

Experiencing the power of community in a pitch room that felt safe enough to allay first-time pitcher anxiety. Hearing other Founders’ inspiring stories.

Tas, Chaps Drinks Wray Forward attendee 2023

The real community feeling of the programme has allowed us to form genuine relationships with fellow entrepreneurs, as well as directly connect with industry leaders through their masterclasses and talks.

Jackie, Doreen’s Rumcakes Wray Forward attendee 2023

Being around other Black business owners filled me with inspiration. I no longer feel alone on this journey.

Temitope, MetaSama MusicWray Forward attendee 2023

The mentorship completely changed our vision for the business. We now know what our next steps are and feel more confident & excited than ever.

DJ Mexy (Music Pitch Day) Wray Forward attendee 2023

There was so much talent and such high-level businesses in the room. I appreciate you all and have learnt so much from every one of you!