Standard Chartered, a global bank connecting corporate, institutional and affluent clients to a network that offers unique access to sustainable growth opportunities across Asia, Africa and the Middle East has partnered with UAE-based impact platform C3 to launch the seventh edition of the Futuremakers Women in Tech Accelerator, aiming to accelerate women-led tech startups in the UAE. This initiative supports innovation, diversity, and economic empowerment for women in technology, reflecting Standard Chartered’s commitment to advancing women entrepreneurs in the region.
Through the program, the Standard Chartered Foundation will provide up to 550,000 AED (USD 150,000) in equity-free capital to chosen entrepreneurs. Every year, more than AED 2.2 million (USD 600,000) in catalytic awards will be given out across all participating markets. Additionally, founders will gain access to local and international investors, a customised curriculum, and professional mentoring.
Rola Abu Manneh, Chief Executive Officer, UAE, Middle East and Pakistan, at Standard Chartered, said: “The Futuremakers Women in Tech Accelerator reflects our commitment to advancing economic inclusion and empowering women entrepreneurs to thrive. Launching our seventh cohort in the UAE is a testament to our long-standing support for the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, and to helping innovative, women-led businesses access the resources, networks, and funding they need to scale their impact. It also underlines our broader commitment to championing women’s empowerment and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion across the communities we serve.
Kevin Holliday, Managing Director, C3, said: “We are proud to partner with Standard Chartered once again for the Futuremakers Women in Tech programme, and are excited to welcome Village Capital on board this year. At C3, we’re focused on backing purpose-driven founders with the tools and connections they need to scale. This initiative reflects the power of collaboration in creating real opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs across the UAE.”
Since its launch, the Women in Tech initiative has helped more than 4,000 women in 17 markets, and the Standard Chartered Futuremakers Women in Tech Accelerator builds on this track record. The 2025 cohort’s applications are now being accepted.
