Standard Chartered Kenya, working with @iBizAfrica – Strathmore University, has concluded the eighth edition of its Women in Tech accelerator, confirming that seven female-founded ventures will receive KES9.1 million (US$70,000) in seed funding.
The initiative is designed to help women-led and women-owned enterprises access the technology, training and capital required to scale ideas that respond to Kenya’s economic and environmental priorities while advancing social impact.
This year’s cohort opened in July and attracted 84 applicants from across the country. From these, 15 startups were selected for a 12-week acceleration programme covering sustainability, ESG integration, business and financial modelling, as well as product development.
The final seven awardees were chosen by a panel of sector specialists, entrepreneurs and academic figures, who reviewed each venture for innovation, market potential and impact credentials. Each winning startup secured KES 1.3 million (US$10,000).
Among the recipients is Etiba, a provider of in-home medical and wellness services, and UzimaNexus, which is developing a digital operating system aimed at improving transparency, accessibility and efficiency within the healthcare ecosystem. Pollen Patrollers, a startup creating smart hive-monitoring tools to help beekeepers curb colony decline and strengthen bee health, also made the list, along with Tuwe Bora, a sustainable textile company producing handcrafted garments, offering tailoring training and using recycled textile waste.
Additional funding went to Busu Skincare, which produces natural African skincare products powered by local communities; Timao Group, a venture turning plastic waste into low-cost, environmentally friendly building materials; and AshaCare, a company delivering community-focused healthcare solutions to strengthen access and service quality.
“These women are reimagining industries and rewriting the story of African innovation. Their courage, creativity and commitment to impact reflect the very essence of Strathmore University’s mission to develop leaders who transform society. When women rise in technology, entire communities rise with them,” said Dr Joseph Sevilla, director of @iLabAfrica and @iBizAfrica – Strathmore University.
