Leeds / Manchester, UK — UK Black Tech and Diverse & Equal today announced global IT and business consulting firm CGI, one of the world’s largest independent technology and business consulting services firms, as the first official corporate sponsor of their groundbreaking Women’s Health Venture Builder pilot. This pioneering initiative will support 12 innovators to develop transformative FemTech solutions and build new, high-growth businesses in the women’s health sector.
Running across Leeds and Manchester, both in-person and online, the Venture Builder will guide participants from early idea formation through to product or service development and ultimately business spin-out. The innovations created will aim to benefit women across the UK—and potentially internationally.
With a strong shared track record in innovation, digital transformation, and talent development, the partnership between UK Black Tech and Diverse & Equal is positioned to unlock significant advances in women’s health while driving inclusive economic growth.
As the programme’s first sponsor, CGI brings its global expertise and commitment to using technology for positive societal impact. Founded in 1976, CGI is one of the world’s largest IT and business consulting services firms, helping clients digitally transform their organisations and accelerate results. In the UK, CGI’s 8,500 IT professionals, including more than 1,300 specialists supporting services across the North of England, help deliver sustainable outcomes and are committed to empowering local talent to drive innovation, deliver value and make a meaningful difference through technology.
Phil Benson of UK Black Tech, said:
“We are really excited to welcome CGI as a sponsor for this vital initiative. Their commitment reflects a genuine belief in the power of innovation and the importance of nurturing emerging talent to create lasting, positive change. It’s inspiring to partner with an organisation whose values align so closely with ours, and we’re looking forward to the impact we can make together.”
Annette Joseph MBE from Diverse & Equal added:
“This initiative is about putting women in the driver’s seat of innovation. We are thrilled to partner with CGI on this groundbreaking programme, which provides mentorship, guidance, and collaborative support to empower women to tackle the challenges that matter most to them, develop their own innovative solutions, and lead ventures that can create lasting impact in women’s health.”
Christina Geary, Senior Vice-President, Consulting Services and Business Unit Leader for Leeds at CGI, said:
“Championing diverse talent and enabling equal opportunity are core to how we work at CGI. The Women’s Health Venture Builder represents a vital initiative that not only advances innovation in women’s health but also ensures that those shaping the future of technology truly reflect the communities they serve.”
The formal programme will launch in May 2026, with the call for applicants opening in the New Year. A series of pre-programme events, including hackathons, will help future founders connect, learn, and begin shaping early ideas.