Ghana: StanChart initiates applications for Cohort 4 of Women in Technology Incubator Programme

Standard Chartered Bank Ghana has invited applications for the fourth cohort of the Standard Chartered Women in Technology (SCWIT) Incubator Programme.

The program actively backs businesses led or owned by women, aligning with the increasing call for diversity in the realms of technology and entrepreneurship. It emphasizes the imperative of expanding avenues for women to cultivate expertise in entrepreneurship and leadership, mirroring the bank’s dedication to sustainability and community involvement. The specific focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology underscores the initiative’s commitment to fostering advancements in these crucial areas.

The programme is implemented by Ashesi University’s Ghana Climate Innovation Centre (AU-GCIC).

The SCWIT Incubator Programme offers selected women entrepreneurs an immersive incubation experience. This includes personalized business advisory services, mentorship, financial grants, and a range of skills development masterclasses. Participants also have the opportunity to engage in the high-value mini-MBA program curated by AU-GCIC.

The programme cumulatively aims to equip female-led enterprises with the transformational and essential skills needed for success in the dynamic tech-enabled business landscape. Entrepreneurs selected for the initiative will benefit from immersive learning in business management and operations, and access to a range of services including legal, accounting, financial planning and tech support, as well as valuable networking opportunities with successful peers and industry experts.

Upon completion, the participants will showcase their businesses, competing for financial grants to scale up their ventures and drive sustainable growth and impact. The SCWIT programme is part of the broader global initiative ‘Futuremakers’ by Standard Chartered, which is aimed at tackling gender inequality by promoting greater economic inclusion.

Since its introduction in Ghana in November 2020, the incubator has positively impacted 54 female-owned businesses spanning diverse sectors. Notably, 15 of these businesses have been awarded grants of US$10,000 each (equivalent in Ghana cedis) to facilitate the expansion and scaling up of their operations.

In the current edition of the program, there has been a notable expansion from five to six top finalists. Each of these finalists is set to receive a US$10,000 grant (equivalent in Ghana cedis), free from equity obligations. This financial support is intended to fuel the growth or initiation of their technology-enabled businesses.

Commenting on this year’s programme, Mansa Nettey, CEO-Standard Chartered Bank Ghana PLC stated: “We remain committed to advancing economic and social development sustainably and equitably; our purpose revolves around propelling commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity. The SCWIT incubator is dedicated to empowering women-led start-ups, by providing indispensable resources and the support needed to propel female-owned businesses to unprecedented heights”.

Ruka Sanusi, Executive Director-Ashesi University’s Ghana Climate Innovation Centre, also said: “The Standard Chartered Women in Technology business incubator is focused on breaking down gender barriers to opportunity, while empowering emerging female business leaders to make meaningful contributions to the world around them.  Ashesi University’s Ghana Climate Innovation Centre is a proud partner with Standard Chartered for the programme, offering women entrepreneurs with technological and sustainability innovation the skills development, mentorship and business support they need to realise their start-up dreams”.