The Leadership Pathway to Women’s Economic Agency
RISE is a CPD-accredited, cross-sector leadership and professional development conference.
It brings together leaders, employers, educators, policymakers, entrepreneurs and changemakers to strengthen leadership, foster collaboration and create opportunities that drive lasting economic and social impact. For employers, universities, public sector organisations and strategic partners, RISE provides an opportunity to invest in the professional development of their people, broaden perspectives, encourage cross-sector collaboration and develop leadership that creates lasting impact.
More than a conference, RISE is where ideas become action, connections become collaboration, and leadership creates opportunity.
Why RISE Matters
- Inspires leadership through thought-provoking keynote speakers and expert-led conversations.
- Builds meaningful collaboration across business, education, the public sector and communities.
- Strengthens professional development through a CPD-accredited learning experience.
- Connects delegates with leaders, organisations and institutions shaping the future.
- Equips individuals and organisations with practical insights, valuable relationships and opportunities for lasting impact.
The Story Behind RISE
For more than a decade, She Inspires has recognised and celebrated the achievements, resilience, innovation and leadership of women across communities, sectors and borders.
Through thousands of inspiring stories, we witnessed the extraordinary power of recognition. It builds confidence, raises visibility and opens doors. For many women, recognition is the moment they begin to see new possibilities.
Recognition is the beginning of the journey. Leadership builds on that foundation, creating the confidence, influence and connections that open the door to opportunity.
That is why RISE was created.
As the leadership pathway to Women’s Economic Agency, RISE is a CPD-accredited, cross-sector leadership and professional development conference that brings together leaders, employers, educators, policymakers, entrepreneurs and changemakers to exchange ideas, foster collaboration and shape the future of leadership, work and opportunity.
More than a conference, RISE is where leadership is strengthened, partnerships are built and ideas are transformed into action. Together, we are creating a future where women are not only recognised for their achievements but are equipped to lead, influence and create lasting economic and social impact.
Why Manchester. Why Now.
Manchester has always been a city that shapes the future. From pioneering industrial innovation and social reform to championing inclusive growth, skills and opportunity, it has earned a reputation as a place where bold ideas become meaningful action.
Today, Greater Manchester continues to influence the national agenda. Its leadership on inclusive growth, devolved public services, skills, transport and economic development has attracted national attention, culminating in the election of former Mayor Andy Burnham as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Against this backdrop, RISE is more than a conference venue—it is a natural home for conversations about the future of leadership. Hosted at the iconic Midland Hotel, RISE brings together leaders from business, education, the public sector, entrepreneurship and civil society to explore the ideas, partnerships and leadership needed to create lasting economic and social impact.
By placing women’s leadership at the heart of these conversations, RISE contributes to a future where leadership is more representative, collaboration is stronger, and opportunity is accessible to all.
Where Leadership Meets Opportunity
Leadership is not built in isolation. It is shaped by diverse perspectives, shared experiences and meaningful collaboration.
As a CPD-accredited leadership and professional development conference, RISE brings together leaders from business, education, the public sector, entrepreneurship and civil society to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of leadership, work and Women’s Economic Agency. It is where lived experience meets evidence, diverse perspectives inspire new thinking, and conversations lead to practical action.
Every keynote, Leadership Conversation and discussion is designed to strengthen leadership capability, encourage cross-sector collaboration and support continuous professional development, while exploring one central question:
How do we create the conditions for more women to lead, influence and thrive?
RISE is not about asking women to adapt to existing systems. It is about bringing together the people, organisations and ideas that can shape systems where leadership is more inclusive, opportunity is more accessible, and everyone has the chance to realise their potential.
Why These Spaces Matter
Who RISE is for
Leadership is not defined by job title, sector or stage of career. It is shaped by a willingness to learn, collaborate and create positive change. As a CPD-accredited, cross-sector leadership and professional development conference, RISE brings together people and organisations committed to developing stronger leaders, building meaningful partnerships and creating opportunities that drive lasting economic and social impact.
For Business Owners & Entrepreneurs
Whether you’re a sole trader, founder or growing an established business, RISE offers fresh ideas, practical insights and meaningful connections to help you lead with confidence, collaborate effectively and grow with purpose.
For Women Leaders & Those Ready for Their Next Leadership Opportunity
Strengthen your leadership, broaden your perspective and build valuable connections through inspiring keynote speakers, Leadership Conversations and shared learning with leaders from across sectors.
For Employers & Organisations
Invest in your people through a CPD-accredited leadership and professional development experience that strengthens leadership capability, encourages cross-sector collaboration and equips teams with practical ideas, fresh perspectives and valuable connections they can bring back to the workplace.
For Educators, Policymakers & Civic Leaders
Share knowledge, exchange ideas and collaborate with leaders from business, education, the public sector and entrepreneurship to help shape the future of leadership, skills and opportunity.
For Future Leaders
Students, graduates and emerging professionals will gain valuable insights, develop leadership skills and connect with employers, educators and experienced leaders who are shaping the future of work.
For Organisations Leading the Way
Showcase your commitment to leadership, professional development and inclusive growth while contributing to conversations that influence the future of organisations, communities and the economy.
Whether you attend as an individual investing in your own leadership journey or as an organisation investing in the development of your people, RISE is designed to inspire leadership, encourage collaboration and create opportunities that deliver lasting impact.
