In a significant step toward empowering women entrepreneurs in Kenya’s tech and sustainability sectors, Standard Chartered Kenya, in partnership with @iBizAfrica – Strathmore University, awarded KES 8.75 million to seven women-led startups during the Women in Tech Incubation Program awards ceremony on October 8th, 2024. The event, themed “Empowering Women for a Sustainable Future,” was held at Strathmore University and recognized startups leading innovation and impact through technology.
The prestigious event was presided over by key figures, including Mr. Kariuki Ngari, CEO and Managing Director of Standard Chartered Bank, Kenya and Africa; Ms. Joyce Kibe, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand, and Marketing at Standard Chartered, Kenya and Africa; Dr. Vincent Ogutu, Vice Chancellor of Strathmore University; and Dr. Joseph Sevilla, Director of @iBizAfrica-Strathmore University.
“We are immensely proud to witness the graduation of the seventh cohort of our Women in Tech program,” said Mr. Kariuki Ngari. “Each of these remarkable entrepreneurs exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resilience that Standard Chartered champions. As we celebrate their achievements today, we are reminded of the pivotal role that technology and female leadership play in driving sustainable economic growth.”
Women in Tech Program: Shaping Kenya’s Future
Now in its seventh year, the Standard Chartered Women in Tech Incubation Program has become a cornerstone of support for women-led startups in Kenya, providing mentorship, seed funding, and business training. With the rising importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles across Africa, this year’s cohort focused on driving sustainability through innovative business models that align with Kenya’s and global objectives for People, Planet, and Profit.
The program received over 130 applications from women-led startups, and after a rigorous selection process, 15 startups were chosen for a 12-week business incubation. These startups represent a variety of sectors, including agritech, health tech, tourism, bio-fuel tech, recycling tech, and e-commerce, with a shared commitment to the triple bottom line of profit, people, and the planet.
“The Women in Tech program has over the past seven years graduated 64 women-led businesses, with 32 receiving seed funding of KES 1.3 million each,” noted Dr. Vincent Ogutu, Vice-Chancellor of Strathmore University. “Investing in women is like activating a lever that drives exponential growth, impact, and sustainability.”
The Seven Award-Winning Startups
The seven startups selected for the KES 8.75 million funding demonstrated exceptional performance in addressing socio-economic challenges in Kenya, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and integrating emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud Computing, and Drone Technology. The recipients are:
- Moma Renewable Energy – A startup specializing in clean energy solutions.
- Hayah Cradle to Bloom – Focused on sustainable agribusiness practices.
- Zidallie – An e-commerce platform emphasizing sustainable consumer goods.
- Gwiji for Women – Providing women with access to digital tools for business.
- Zaoshinani – Offering innovative recycling technologies.
- AerialGIS – Leveraging drone technology for environmental and agricultural insights.
- PsychCare Clinic – A health-tech startup addressing mental health through digital tools.
Pioneering a Sustainable Future
As part of the incubation program, these startups underwent comprehensive training in areas such as sustainability practices, financial modeling, product development, and ESG integration. The 12-week incubation equipped them with the tools to drive sustainable impact through technology, empowering them to lead Kenya’s transition toward a greener economy.
With the growing focus on sustainable entrepreneurship and the increasing role of women in tech, programs like the Women in Tech Incubation Program are vital for nurturing leadership and driving Kenya’s tech ecosystem. As Mr. Kariuki Ngari emphasized, “Our commitment remains steadfast in nurturing and expanding this vibrant community of trailblazers, who are not only shaping the tech industry but are also actively crafting a sustainable future for all.”
A Broader Impact Across Africa
Since its inception, the Women in Tech program has attracted over 2,250 applications and provided support to 77 women-led startups. The program offers more than just funding—it provides mentorship, business advisory services, coaching, and access to investor forums, helping to mold these startups into globally competitive businesses.
With ESG-driven entrepreneurship becoming a focal point in global development, Standard Chartered’s collaboration with Strathmore University is creating a powerful platform for women entrepreneurs to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. By fostering innovation and leadership among women, the bank and its partners are helping to drive economic growth, social impact, and environmental sustainability in Kenya and beyond.
The Standard Chartered Women in Tech Incubation Program is a leading initiative in Kenya supporting women-led startups by providing access to seed capital, mentorship, business training, and networks. Since 2017, the program has empowered women entrepreneurs, offering them a platform to scale their businesses and drive impact across the economy.
