Call for Applications:  Women in Tech Accelerator 2026 – $600,000 in Grants for Women-Led Tech Startups

Application Deadline: June 30, 2026

About the Program

For the Women in Tech Accelerator 2026, applications are now being accepted. Backed by Standard Chartered Foundation and implemented by Village Capital, this programme supports women-led tech startups across Africa, the Middle East, and Pakistan. Over $600,000 in grant funding will be distributed through this initiative, while mentorship, investor access, and tailored venture support are provided to help early-stage founders refine their business models and scale their operations. The philanthropic arm of Standard Chartered Bank, focused on creating sustainable economic opportunities for underserved communities, is Standard Chartered Foundation. Early-stage impact-driven startups are supported by Village Capital, a global nonprofit, through peer-selected investment models and venture development programs. Deep expertise in supporting founders at critical growth stages is combined with financial resources through this partnership.

Who Should Apply

The following criteria must be met by eligible startups:

• Women-led – The startup must be founded or co-founded by a woman with significant leadership and decision-making authority
• Working product or early traction – A minimum viable product (MVP) or early market validation should be demonstrated by startups
• Operation in eligible sectors is required, including:
• Fintech (financial technology)
• Healthtech (healthcare technology)
• Edtech (education technology)
• Agritech (agricultural technology)
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Based in eligible markets is required, including:
• Nigeria
• Kenya
• Egypt
• Other selected markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Pakistan

Why This Accelerator Matters

Significant barriers to accessing capital, mentorship, and networks are consistently faced by women-led startups. Globally, only a small fraction of venture capital funding goes to women founders, and the gap is even wider in emerging markets.

These barriers are addressed by the Women in Tech Accelerator 2026 through several approaches:

• Non-dilutive grant funding is provided – Capital is received by startups without giving up equity
• Mentorship and investor access are offered – The network gap that often holds women founders back is bridged
• Early-stage ventures are focused on – Support is provided at the critical stage when validation and guidance are needed
• Operation across multiple markets – Opportunities for connection and learning across Africa, the Middle East, and Pakistan are created

For women-led tech startups with a working product and early traction, a pathway to scale while retaining ownership and control is offered by this accelerator.

Program Benefits

The following will be received by selected startups:

• Grant funding – A share of over $600,000 in non-dilutive grant funding (no equity taken)
• Mentorship – Guidance from experienced entrepreneurs, industry experts, and investors
• Investor access – Connections to a global network of impact and commercial investors
• Tailored venture support – A customized curriculum and resources to refine business models and scale operations
• Peer learning – Opportunities to connect with other women-led tech startups across regions

How to Apply

The application website can be accessed by clicking on the link.

Application Link:  Click here to apply

Note: If the link does not work directly, the StartupLagos website should be visited and “Women in Tech Accelerator 2026” or the Standard Chartered Foundation/Village Capital program page should be searched for.

For More Information: Visit the StartupLagos Blog