Now is Our Time
Hey Mobsters,
Since launching my accelerator programme, supported by Mums Who Build, I have been so fortunate to meet with so many of you this week. I am so privileged to meet founders every day doing incredible things. You inspire me!
This got me thinking what a powerhouse of women we are and inspired me to write this blog titled ‘Now is Our Time’.
There’s a quiet revolution happening and it’s being led by women like us.
Mums juggling nap schedules, school runs, packed lunches, and dreams that refuse to sit quietly in the background. And here's the thing: those dreams? They matter. In fact, there’s never been a better time to back yourself and bring your business idea to life.
We’re living in the age of the creator economy, a time when knowledge, creativity, and authenticity are valuable currency. No gatekeepers, no corporate ladders to climb, just ideas, action, and connection. Whether it’s a product, a service, a community or a perspective, if you’ve got something burning inside you, this is your moment.
The Power Is In Your Pocket
Fifteen years ago, starting a business meant big investment, fancy branding, and probably a physical office space. Today? You can launch from your kitchen table with just a phone, an internet connection, and a healthy dose of courage.
Want to test an idea? Pop a story poll on Instagram.
Need a website? You can build one in an afternoon with tools like Shopify or Squarespace.
Need feedback? Join a WhatsApp group of like-minded women such as the MOB or post in a Facebook community.
Ready to sell? Start small. Use what you already have. Get scrappy.
You don’t need a 50-page business plan, you need proof of interest, real validation and someone willing to say “Yes, I want that.”
And with the world tightening its belt, rising childcare costs, economic pressure, and a general sense that the system doesn’t always serve us, building something of your own can be more than just empowering. It can be smart, sustainable, and liberating.
Why the Austerity Mindset Might Be a Gift
Here’s the twist: this challenging economy might actually be a blessing in disguise.
When you don’t have loads of capital, you focus on what matters most:
Solving a real problem
Serving a real need
Creating real value
You’re not throwing money at fluff, you’re getting to the heart of it. That kind of focus is a superpower. It means when things do grow, they grow strong and lean. You're building something that lasts.
So… How Do You Start?
If there’s something inside you whispering (or shouting) “give it a go”, here are a few steps to take:
Get clear on the problem you solve. Who are you helping? What are you helping them with?
Talk to people. Friends, mums at the school gate, Instagram followers, ask questions, test ideas, listen.
Create something small. A one-page website. A test product. A free session. A taster.
Share it. Let people know what you’re doing. Imperfect is fine, action beats perfection every time.
Start small, stay consistent. One thing a day. That’s how momentum builds.
You Don’t Need Permission, Just a Spark
The world needs more businesses led by women who see things differently. Who build with empathy, flexibility, and purpose. Who understand what it means to nurture and grow in life and in work.
So if you’ve been sitting on a dream, know this: you don’t have to wait until everything is perfect. You don’t have to wait for the kids to get older. You don’t need permission.
Now is our time.
I’ll be away now until post Easter when I will have returned having marked the BIG 40! So needless to say, have a wonderful Easter break and see you all on the other side.
With love
Francesca x
Recommendation of the week: Atomic Habits by James Clear - if you want to make space for growth this is a great read.
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Francesca Hodgson is a mother, send parent, a strategic operator, startup advisor and founder of We Are Ambition.
During maternity leave Francesca co-founded GoodBox - a fintech-for-good business revolutionising how charities receive donations. Now an exited tech founder With a background in scaling high-impact ventures and a passion for supporting meaningful communities, Francesca now works closely with early-stage founders through her coaching and new accelerator programme — championing mums in business and helping bold ideas come to life. She is also an active member and contributor to Mums Who Build, where she continues to inspire with her energy, empathy, and deep belief in women-led innovation.
