A SOCIAL enterprise that challenges gender stereotypes has been transformed, thanks to an accelerator hub for entrepreneurs in Hampshire.

Clare Willetts, the founder of not only pink and blue, believes her business has more impact since joining the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator in Chandlers Ford.

The launch of the firm, in 2020, was the culmination of a long-held idea.

Clare said: "At 13 years old I was frustrated at the uniform policy of box-pleat-below-the-knee skirts for girls, which were completely impractical. I petitioned the Headmaster to change the uniform policy so that girls could wear trousers. He listened and the policy was changed sparking my passion for equality and fairness.

"Fast forward 20 years when I was shopping for baby clothes I realised just how stark the pink/blue divide still was and through research I found that stereotypes can have a limiting effect on children’s aspirations, confidence and mental well-being.

"I was determined to drive change and challenge the idea that certain colours, toys and activities were ‘for’ boys or ‘for’ girls. We need to challenge these stereotypes from birth because we see how early stereotypes are ingrained.

"not only pink and blue was born to actively and consciously challenge stereotypes from birth so that we can grow generations of equals."

Not only pink and blue was founded in 2020 as a marketplace. The focus of the business was changed at the beginning of 2022 to be a social enterprise that delivers talks, consultancy and help with praental leave.

It has received several accolades, including the Theo Paphitis Small Business Sunday award.

Scale-up businesses from across the region are being urged to apply to join one of the leading accelerator hubs for entrepreneurs.

The NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator in Chandlers Ford has already helped a significant number of entrepreneurs from Hampshire, Dorset, the Isle of Wight and West Sussex achieve national and international success.

Don't miss out on becoming one of the next cohort of entrepreneurs as applications close on February 17.

The NatWest Accelerator supports and empowers entrepreneurs to scale their businesses to the next level and specialises in complete wraparound support.

Visit natwest.com/business/business-services/entrepreneur-accelerator.html