Kenya women in tech incubator open for applications

Standard Chartered Women in Technology Incubator Kenya is open for applications and is aimed at facilitating diversity and growth of women-owned tech startups in Africa. 

The programmme is an initiative of Standard Chartered in partnership with @iBizAfrica Centre, Strathmore University.

Five selected top finalists will receive Kenyan Shillings 100 000 and continued mentorship and support

Details and benefits

Supporting over 40 entrepreneurs, the Women in Tech programme is targeted at women-lead small and medium enterprises (SMEs) who specialise in technology and innovative business models that will drive change and growth in communities. 

This female-focused programme aims to provide a holistic incubation initiative. Participants will be provided support from mentors with local and international experience, coaching, immersive learning, seed financing, and further networking opportunities. 

The programme theme for this year is ‘’Accelerating the Digital Economy through Women-Owned Businesses’’.

Five startups will be selected as the top finalists and will each receive an estimated $9 189,32 (Kenyan Shilling 1 000 000) in seed funding.

 In addition, the selected participants will be given the opportunity to participate in a 12-week incubation programme. 

During the 12-week programme, participants will be provided training from experts in various areas, from idea conception to strategy formulation and marketing.

 In addition the top five companies will have nine months of continued support from Standard Chartered and @iBizAfrica to assist with the go-to-market transition and scale.

Companies are given the opportunity to access a rich network consisting of enablers and partners in and outside the ecosystem. This opportunity allows entrepreneurs to create sustainable partnerships for business growth. 

Requirements

• The business must be based in Kenya as the business must align with the needs of Kenyans or those operating in Kenya.
• Companies must have a hold on emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, augmented and virtual reality, 3D and 4D printing, cloud computing, big data, blockchain, drone technology, and biometrics. 
• The company must be founded or co-founded by a Kenyan woman over the age of 18 years, with an equal or majority stake.
• Business models must show a clear focus on sustainability which align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Three months to less than two years of operating 
• Seeking proof of concept, customer, product, and business model support.
• Must have evidence of pre-revenue
• Post revenue is beneficial if the business created a new business model. 

Female entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply online for the Kenyan incubator Women in Tech programme. 

Read more: New programme launches to assist female-owned tech businesses
Read more: How gender bias compromises the tech sector 

Featured image: Christina @ wocintechchat.com via Unsplash