In partnership with DIFC Innovation Hub, Standard Chartered has launched the fifth cohort of its ‘Women in Tech’ accelerator programme. The two organisations hope the programme can continue to drive sustainable growth and empower women entrepreneurs in the UAE’s technology sector, fostering innovation, diversity, and economic development.
Standard Chartered’s ‘Women in Tech‘ accelerator programme offers women entrepreneurs a platform to unleash their potential, overcome barriers, and accelerate their business ventures. As part of a global Women in Tech initiative, the programme operates successfully in nine countries, to create a global network of empowered women in the tech space.
In collaboration with the renowned DIFC Innovation Hub, the programme provides unparalleled support, mentorship, and access to seed capital to propel the success of women-led start-ups.
The welcomes start-ups to submit applications to join the accelerator until the end of July. Standard Chartered UAE Will select ten start-ups to participate. Selected entrepreneurs will benefit from a comprehensive curriculum featuring tailored training, immersive workshops, as well as invaluable mentorship opportunities designed to address their specific needs.
The Women in Tech accelerator programme concludes with a demo day in October, in which ten female-led entrepreneurial teams showcase their innovative business models to a distinguished panel of potential investors, industry experts, and thought leaders. As well as exposure, the top three winners will be awarded a total of $100,000 in equity-free seed capital, providing a substantial boost to their ventures.
“Champion women empowerment and support technological innovation”
Rola Abu Manneh, chief executive officer of Standard Chartered UAE, discussed the launch of the latest Women in Tech accelerator: “This programme is a testament to our shared commitment with the UAE to champion women empowerment and support technological innovation. Through targeted support, mentorship, and access to seed capital, we aim to empower women in technology, enabling them to overcome barriers, seize opportunities, and drive transformative change.
“By joining forces with DIFC Innovation Hub, we are also taking significant strides towards building a more inclusive and thriving tech ecosystem that supports women-led start-ups and harnesses the diverse talents and perspectives of women, ultimately shaping a brighter future for all.”
Mohammad AlBlooshi, CEO of DIFC Innovation Hub, also commented: “DIFC Innovation Hub is dedicated to supporting start-ups and entrepreneurs in the UAE, fostering an environment that nurtures innovation and drives economic growth. The Women in Tech programme empowers female entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and make a lasting impact. We are proud to collaborate with Standard Chartered on this initiative as we drive the future of finance together.”
Standard Chartered UAE has previously accelerated four cohorts, comprising more than 20 start-ups, which collectively raised over $5million from various venture capitalists to expand their businesses within and outside of the UAE.
