Applications are now open for the Standard Chartered Foundation Women in Tech Accelerator 2026, a high-impact initiative designed to support women-led tech and tech-enabled businesses with funding, mentorship, and business growth support.
The program is powered by the Standard Chartered Foundation, in collaboration with ecosystem partners, to strengthen women’s participation in Africa’s growing digital economy.
About the Program
The Women in Tech Accelerator is an annual program aimed at empowering female founders building innovative, technology-driven solutions.
It provides structured support to help startups:
- Refine their products
- Strengthen business models
- Scale sustainably
This initiative is part of Standard Chartered’s broader mission to close the gender gap in technology and entrepreneurship across Africa.
Program Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Up to $10,000 in non-equity funding
- Business and technical training (product development, finance, go-to-market strategy)
- Mentorship and coaching from industry experts
- Access to a pan-African network of founders and partners
- Opportunities for visibility, investor exposure, and partnerships
Who Should Apply
The program is designed for:
- Women founders or co-founders of startups
- Entrepreneurs building tech or tech-enabled solutions
- Early-stage startups with:
- A minimum viable product (MVP) or pilot
- Some level of traction or market validation
Eligible sectors include:
- FinTech
- HealthTech
- EdTech
- AgriTech
- AI and digital services
Note: Some cohorts (e.g., Ghana track) may require at least 50% female ownership and a business operational for at least 12 months.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Women entrepreneurs in Africa often face challenges such as limited access to funding, mentorship, and growth networks.
This accelerator helps bridge that gap by offering:
- Equity-free funding (no ownership dilution)
- Hands-on training and mentorship
- Access to markets, investors, and strategic partnerships
It is especially valuable for founders looking to scale their startups and attract investment.
How to Apply
To apply:
- Visit the official program portal
- Review the eligibility requirements
- Complete and submit your application
Apply here: https://scwomenintechgh.com/programme/
