Standard Chartered, in partnership with @iBizAfrica, Strathmore University and Village Capital, have officially launched cohort 8 of Women in Tech program.
The program is aimed at empowering women-led startups through technology and innovation by equipping them with essential skills, financing and networks to drive lasting impact.
Since its inception, the Women in Tech Programme has awarded over KES 143 million to 39 women-led ventures. To ensure innovation truly serves all Kenyans, Cohort 8 will prioritise solutions tailored to underserved communities and that meet local needs, such as USSD platforms, offline apps, and community-based tech models.
Speaking during the launch, Dr Beverly Obatoyinbo, Board Member of Standard Chartered, noted that through the launch of cohort 8, they are not only funding ideas but also creating an opportunity where technology can be used to empower and thrive communities that are often overlooked. She added that they are working to make sure no woman with a vision is left behind due to a lack of digital access.
The cohort 8 is looking forward to ensuring women–led businesses survive and are at the forefront in serving all Kenyans by supporting the use of adaptive technology, such as the use of USSD platforms, SMS or offline platforms that will not only serve a few but rather all.
Joyce Kibe, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing at Standard Chartered Kenya and Africa, said, “This year, we are being intentional about equality in innovation. By focusing on women from underserved communities and investing in adaptable technologies like USSD and offline solutions, we are closing the gap between potential and opportunity. Women in Tech is more than a program; it is a movement toward inclusive, impactful entrepreneurship.”
Strathmore University Vice Chancellor, Dr. Vincent Ogutu, emphasised the significance of inclusivity in innovation by adding that when women are being empowered in sectors like technology, it paints what progress looks like for everyone.
Dr . Joseph Sevilla, Director of @ilabAfrica, Strathmore University reiterated the need of partnering with academic industries such as @iLabAfrica and @iBizAfrica that helps in mentorships, research -backed tools and technical guidance in building inclusive tech ecosystem, since the program is about scaling businesses that will be solving real – world problems especially in areas where there is digital access.
The seed funding of the 2025 program will entail masterclasses on digital accessibility, adaptive business models, and inclusive fintech, enabling founders to gain capital and encouraging a growth mindset that will uplift entire communities.
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