The government has announced a new scheme to provide female entrepreneurs with faster broadband.

Equalities minister Nicky Morgan announced the £1 million challenge fund yesterday, which she said would help fledgling entrepreneurs grow their businesses online.

Visiting Google’s Campus for Mums in Shoreditch, Ms Morgan said: “There are thousands of women running some amazing small businesses all over the UK but they still make up just a fifth of all small businesses.

“As part of our long-term economic plan for Britain we are determined to do everything we can to support women to start-up businesses and create more jobs and opportunities for hardworking people.

She added: “This fund…will include online mentors, business clubs and training courses so that women all over the county can benefit from the kinds of help Campus for Mums is giving.”

The fund is tied in to the government’s plans for super-fast broadband rollout across the UK. Some 40 local broadband projects will be invited to bid for a share of the new £1 million money.