Standard Chartered, DIFC Innovation Hub partner to empower UAE women entrepreneurs

Standard Chartered, in partnership with DIFC Innovation Hub, has announced the launch of the fifth cohort of the Women in Tech accelerator programme. The initiative is designed to drive sustainable growth and empower women entrepreneurs in the UAE’s technology sector, fostering innovation, diversity and economic development.

The programme offers women entrepreneurs a platform to unleash their potential, overcome barriers and accelerate their business ventures, a statement said.

As part of a global Women in Tech initiative, the programme operates successfully in nine countries, creating a global network of empowered women in the tech space.

In collaboration with DIFC Innovation Hub, the programme provides support, mentorship and access to seed capital to propel the success of women-led startups.

The programme commences with an application period. From the pool of applicants, 10 startups will be selected to participate in the programme. The selected entrepreneurs will embark on a journey, benefitting from a curriculum featuring tailored training, immersive workshops and invaluable mentorship opportunities designed to address their specific needs.

The Women in Tech accelerator programme will conclude with the Demo Day in October. During the event, 10 female-led entrepreneurial teams will showcase their business models to a panel of potential investors, industry experts and thought leaders.

In addition to the 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.

Rola Abu Manneh, chief executive officer, Standard Chartered UAE, said: “We are thrilled to launch the fifth round of this signature accelerator programme in the UAE, in partnership with DIFC Innovation Hub. 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 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, chief executive officer of DIFC Innovation Hub, added: “DIFC Innovation Hub is dedicated to supporting startups 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.”

Don’t just dream of your tech startup, let us help you make it happen.
Submit your business proposal to Standard Chartered Women in Tech to turn your dreams into the future.
Apply now: https://t.co/COYrDoL67U#SCWomenInTech pic.twitter.com/c0v3Bm1W9I

— DIFC Innovation Hub (@InnovHubDIFC) July 17, 2023

Meanwhile, to date, Standard Chartered UAE has accelerated four cohorts, comprising of more than 20 startups, who have collectively raised over $5m from various venture capitalists to expand their businesses within and outside of the UAE.

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