Brighton-born City Girl Network has announced a new partnership with Starling Bank, which will become the headline partner of its Business Connections programme from June 2026. Designed to make business support feel more accessible and inclusive, the programme brings together female business owners and professionals through events, resources and opportunities. More than 300 businesses are already part of the Business Connections network, which first grew from the City Girl Network’s strong roots in Brighton and has since expanded into communities across the UK.
As part of the partnership, the City Girl Network and Starling will deliver a year-round programme of activity, including events, practical digital resources and expert-led content designed to address the unique challenges and needs facing SMEs. This content will cover key topics including business budgeting, VAT, productivity, AI and marketing, and will feature real business testimonials and insight.
Over 100 local business owners are expected to celebrate the launch on 8th July at PLATF9RM. This free event features local business owners Carolynn Bain and Alice Dewar-Mills, as well as the CMO of Starling Michele Rousseau and the Head of SME Expenses, Vicki Bracey.
Pippa Moyle, Founder of City Girl Network, said:
“The City Girl Network was built to help women feel that they belong where they are, and that has grown into a powerful national community rooted in connection, confidence and opportunity.
“Business Connections is a vital part of that mission. We know there is huge value in creating spaces where professionals can meet, learn and grow that’s embedded in community spirit. I’ve been a personal and business customer with Starling Bank for years and am honoured to be working with them to expand our mission.”
Michele Rousseau, Chief Marketing Officer at Starling Bank, said:
“At Starling, we’re committed to championing female entrepreneurs. By providing the expertise to upskill and the space to connect with experienced peers in inspiring and welcoming environments, we’re giving founders the confidence to scale.
“Our mission is to help every customer be good with money, and by partnering with City Girl Network we are extending that support to more flourishing businesses in rural areas, towns, and cities.”
The City Girl Network was created in 2016 with their founding community, Brighton Girl, and quickly became a national community. It now reaches 250,000 women in 27 locations across Great Britain, with 60,000 across Sussex. Through events, content, and business support, they have created trusted spaces where women can feel more connected, supported and empowered.
The collaboration marks a new chapter for Business Connections and reflects a shared commitment to championing women in business through community, knowledge and practical support. Starling will be integrated across the Business Connections programme through co-branded visibility across events, newsletters, ticketing and the wider business directory, helping the partnership reach thousands of business owners looking for support.
Find out more here: https://citygirlnetwork.com/
Launch event information can be found here: https://citygirlnetwork.com/
