This week, we’re joined by Becky Lodge, the Founding Director and CEO of Little Kanga and creator of Startup Disruptors. With over 25 years of experience, Becky has established herself as a trailblazer in innovation, digital transformation, and business growth.
Becky’s dedication to creating lasting change is evident in her remarkable 2024 achievement of securing £2.1 million in funding to support female entrepreneurs, a testament to her unwavering commitment to leveling the playing field. Her story is one of advocacy, resilience, and an unshakable drive to empower others to succeed.
Through her work, Becky inspires us all to challenge the status quo and embrace the power of collaboration. Join us as we dive into her insights on driving meaningful impact and building a fairer, more inclusive world for the next generation.
What is the biggest thing you have done to create or improve social impact?
In 2024, I had the privilege of being part of a pivotal moment for women entrepreneurs in the UK. I successfully lobbied for the reversal of a funding decision by Innovate UK (UK), securing the reinstatement of £2.1 million in public funding specifically for female innovators. This funding was originally withheld, but I was able to work with key stakeholders, advocate for the importance of supporting women in business, and ensure that 25 talented female entrepreneurs were awarded £75k each to help grow their start-ups.
The impact of this funding is immeasurable, as it enables these women to scale their businesses, create jobs, and inspire future generations of female innovators. I’m incredibly proud of this achievement, not only because of the immediate impact it had on these women, but also because it sends a powerful message about the need for equal access to opportunities. I hope that this decision will be felt for years to come, not only by the women who benefited but also by the broader entrepreneurial community. It was a defining moment in my career, showing that collective action and determination can create meaningful, lasting change.
If you were the Prime Minister, what would you do to improve the UK for everyone?
If I were Prime Minister, my top priority would be to tackle poverty head-on and ensure that food banks, which are a disgrace in any developed nation, have no need to exist. The fact that so many people in the UK rely on food banks to survive is a symptom of a much deeper systemic issue, and addressing that would be central to my agenda. My government would focus on a comprehensive social care system that meets the needs of every citizen, from children to the elderly, and addresses mental health care, disability support, and other essential services. I’d advocate for a stronger safety net for the most vulnerable in society, ensuring that no one falls through the cracks.
Additionally, reducing the cost of living would be a key priority. Keeping energy bills, transport costs, and housing prices under control should be non-negotiable. The cap on bus tickets, for example, is a policy I support because it ensures mobility for all, regardless of financial status. By building a fairer, more equitable system, we can create a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, not just survive. It’s about making sure that all citizens are empowered to succeed and contribute to the country’s well-being.
What is your biggest work lesson? And why?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my career is the power of self-belief and the importance of taking risks. For many years, I believed that the only way to build a successful future was through traditional employment, waiting for opportunities to come to me. However, I eventually realised that waiting for others to give me permission to succeed was a limiting mindset.
The real turning point for me came when I decided to take the plunge and start my own business. It was a huge leap, but it opened up new worlds of possibility and opportunity. Starting a business gave me the autonomy I needed to shape my own future, pursue my passions, and create wealth on my terms. Looking back, I wish I had taken that step earlier. It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that you need a steady job or a corporate title to feel successful, but true freedom and opportunity come from creating your own path. I encourage young women and girls to believe in their ability to be entrepreneurs, to take risks, and to know that they are capable of achieving greatness.
Can you share some key milestones or proudest moments in your career?
Over the course of my 25-year career, I’ve had the privilege of achieving a number of milestones that have shaped my professional journey. One of my proudest accomplishments is having sold over half a billion pounds’ worth of products and services. This achievement is a testament to the hard work, persistence, and strategic thinking that I’ve put into my career, and it also reflects the trust and partnerships I’ve built with clients over the years.
Another key moment in my career was working with Formula 1 teams, which was an exciting and unique experience that allowed me to apply my skills in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment. That experience taught me how to stay focused, manage stress, and perform under extreme pressure.
However, the proudest and most meaningful achievement to date is the success of Startup Disruptors, the community I helped build for early-stage founders. It’s an incredible feeling to see the entrepreneurs in this community grow, thrive, and support each other. This initiative is not just about business success; it’s about creating a network of like-minded individuals who are passionate about disrupting industries, innovating, and driving positive change. That, for me, is the ultimate success.
What is your most embarrassing moment at work?
Embarrassing moments are an inevitable part of any career, and I certainly have my fair share! One that stands out happened early in my career when I was scheduled to attend an interview for a role I was quite excited about. The only problem was that I got hopelessly lost on the way to the interview, which was at a trading estate I had never been to before. At the time, there were no smartphones or GPS to help guide me, so I found myself driving in circles, getting more and more frustrated. After finally admitting defeat, I called the recruitment firm to cancel, feeling like I had completely blown my chance. Ironically, a week later I received an unexpected opportunity to interview for a role I hadn’t even applied for — and it turned out to be a fantastic opportunity in London. Sometimes, things don’t go according to plan, but in my case, what seemed like an embarrassing setback ended up being a case of fate stepping in and redirecting me to an even better path.
Who or what inspires you to continue pushing the boundaries of ethical and impact-driven business practices?
The need for change and progress is one of the biggest drivers behind my commitment to ethical and impact-driven business practices. I’m constantly inspired by the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers who are demanding a better world. We have a responsibility to leave the world in a better state than we found it, and it’s clear that the younger generation is deeply invested in creating a sustainable, just, and equitable future.
For me, the suffragettes are a powerful source of inspiration. Their courage, resilience, and relentless pursuit of justice show me that change is possible when we refuse to accept the status quo. Their movement wasn’t just about securing the right to vote; it was about demanding equality, opportunity, and dignity for women. That same spirit of activism and conviction drives me to challenge the systems that perpetuate inequality and create opportunities for those who have been historically marginalised. It’s about asking ourselves every day, “What could we do today to make the world a better place in 50 years’ time?” I believe that the work we do now — and the way we do it — will have a lasting impact for generations to come.
What is your favourite quote that you would like us to include? And please explain why.
“Always be a first-rate version of yourself and not a second-rate version of someone else.” – Judy Garland
This quote is one that has guided me throughout both my personal and professional life. It’s a reminder to always stay true to who you are, rather than trying to mimic someone else’s path or success. In a world that often encourages comparison — whether it’s in business, social media, or even personal life — it’s easy to lose sight of your own unique value. For me, being authentic has been key to building meaningful relationships, creating impact, and finding true fulfilment. When you embrace your own voice, ideas, and quirks, you attract people who genuinely resonate with your vision and passion. It’s not about trying to fit into someone else’s mould; it’s about defining your own success and owning your individuality.
