In a bid to advance financial inclusion for African women and commemorate Women’s History Month 2024, fintech company Grey has launched the UpGreyed Her initiative, an equity-free grant program.
The initiative, which commenced on International Women’s Day, garnered nearly 1000 applications from six African countries within a span of two weeks. At a grant presentation held in Lagos, Iheakachi Nwabueze, head of Global Marketing and Growth at Grey, revealed that three winners were selected from five finalists based on their innovative approaches to enhancing product competitiveness, developing new product concepts, demonstrating commitment to sustainability, and promoting diversity.
Nwabueze emphasized the significance of the initiative in bridging the $42 billion funding gap faced by African female entrepreneurs. She applauded the 773 applicants who participated in the application process, underscoring the innovative and impactful businesses led by women across the continent.
The first-place prize of $4,000 was awarded to Ameenah Kazeem, who expressed gratitude for Grey’s support in her entrepreneurial journey. Kazeem, founder of OfadaHub, acknowledged the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in balancing work and home life and lauded Grey for investing in female founders.
Chinazom Arinze, founder of AutoGirl Ltd, and Zigwai Fanda, founder of LadyBambooLtd, emerged as runners-up, each receiving $2,000. The grant recipients expressed their aspirations for their respective businesses and commended Grey for its commitment to promoting gender diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Nishita Devanand, a judge on the panel, praised Grey for its inclusive and forward-thinking initiative, emphasizing the importance of encouragement and support for women entrepreneurs. Blessing Abeng, representing Her Network, applauded Grey’s efforts in amplifying women’s voices and impact stories.
The UpGreyed Her Initiative, in partnership with Her Network, aims to empower African women and drive positive change in the entrepreneurial landscape, propelling businesses to new heights of success.
