Standard Chartered Futuremakers Women in Tech Accelerator

Applications for the 2025 Futuremakers Women in Tech Accelerator are now open

Standard Chartered, in collaboration with Village Capital and C3, proudly launches the 7th edition of the Futuremakers Women in Tech Accelerator in the UAE - a dynamic platform that’s not just supporting women entrepreneurs, but transforming the tech landscape.

This isn’t just another accelerator - it’s a launchpad for bold ideas, fearless innovation, and real impact. Designed to fuel sustainable growth and support women building tech-enabled solutions, this initiative creates space for founders to lead with purpose in the UAE’s evolving digital economy. Through this powerful, global program, women founders gain more than just exposure - they gain access to world-class mentorship, expert training, and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem. And with USD 150,000 in equity-free prize funding up for grabs, the potential to scale your business and make your mark has never been greater.

Eligibility criteria:

  • Have a gender-diverse team with at least one female co-founder

  • Have an early-stage startup operational for one year with at least a Minimum Viable Product (Seed-stage and pre-series A startups)

  • Demonstrate that the solution is innovative and scalable

  • Demonstrate the technology’s sustainable impact (environmental, social or economic)

  • Be registered and operating in the UAE

  • Be available for the duration of programme activities and events (taking place both in-person and online)

If you’re a founder looking to scale your business — now is the time. Let’s shape the future of tech, together.

Apply now. Get inspired. Grow global.

What’s in it for you?

Equity-Free Funding

Up to USD 150,000 in equity-free funding from Standard Chartered Bank

Networking

Opportunity to access the global networks of Standard Chartered and C3

Workshops and Training

Tailored workshops designed to help you scale with confidence

Mentorship

Expert support across key areas - from business strategy to impactful governance

What Women in Tech alumni have to say about their experience

“I gained valuable insights into scaling a tech-enabled business and navigating investor readiness. The workshops were highly relevant and the support from Standard Chartered and the other founders was exceptional.”

Audrey Nakad - Founder, Ostaz

“What truly stood out was the supportive community built with Standard Chartered, the amazing C3 team, and a cohort of inspiring women founders. We formed connections that last well beyond the programme.”

Jessica Scopacasa - Co-Founder, Olive Gaea

“The accelerator reminded me that entrepreneurship is not just about building something new—it’s about becoming someone new, again and again. I am walking away more confident, grounded, and excited for the next chapter.”

Hafsa Qadeer - Founder, ImInclusive

Past editions

C3 partnered with Standard Chartered on the sixth edition of the Standard Chartered Futuremakers Women in Tech accelerator 2024 in the UAE.

The programme aimed to foster sustainable growth and empower female entrepreneurs within the UAE’s technology sector by promoting innovation, financial empowerment, and economic development.

Over the course of 4 months, the accelerator provided 12 female founders with a platform to unlock their potential, overcome obstacles, and scale their business ventures.