This initiative aims to empower women entrepreneurs by providing funding, mentorship, and access to key industry networks. The Women in Tech Accelerator is part of Futuremakers by Standard Chartered, the bank’s global youth economic empowerment initiative for disadvantaged young people. With funding from the Standard Chartered Foundation, the programme will provide specialised training, catalytic funding, and access to a global network of finance providers, industry leaders, and ecosystem partners.
According to Standard Chartered, over the next three years, 400 women entrepreneurs will receive support to develop thriving microbusinesses, create jobs, and contribute to lasting social and environmental impact. The initiative plans to award more than 32 catalytic grants totaling nearly $1.9 million and support over 1, 200 jobs. The accelerator will be available in 12 Standard Chartered markets, including Bahrain, Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, UAE, and Zambia. Additionally, it will expand into Uganda and Egypt, increasing its reach to more women-led businesses. Chief Strategy and Talent Officer at Standard Chartered, Tanuj Kapilashrami, emphasised the importance of empowering women for economic growth. “We believe equitable access to funding and resources is essential to fostering innovation and driving meaningful social impact—whether it be through our Futuremakers philanthropic programmes, our banking propositions such as the SC Women’s International Network, or the work we do towards supporting a diverse supplier base,” Kapilashrami said.
