Standard Chartered Bank and Strathmore University’s iBizAfrica Center have unveiled 15 female-led startups selected to join the Women in Tech Cohort 7 Programme.
This year’s program targets female entrepreneurs leading sustainable tech startups that can generate positive social and environmental impact. The aim is to equip these businesses with the skills and resources to not only scale but also integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. This aligns with both national and global sustainability goals.
Dr. Joseph Sevilla, Director of iBizAfrica: “These startups embody the innovative spirit and resilience of Kenyan women entrepreneurs. We’re dedicated to providing them with the tools and mentorship they need to expand their businesses and create a lasting impact on Kenya.”
Joyce Kibe, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing, Kenya and Africa, Standard Chartered: “Kenya’s advanced use of technology positions it perfectly to address global climate issues through creative solutions. We’re confident these businesses will power the future of Kenyan (and global) business.”
Program Details
- Selection Process: Startups were chosen based on their execution capabilities, potential to solve Kenyan socio-economic challenges, and a balanced team skillset (leadership, business development, product development, and marketing) that complements their technology use.
- Training Structure: The 12-week business incubation program focuses on emerging technologies (AI, IoT, big data) alongside core business fundamentals like concept development, strategy, and marketing, crucial for transforming incubated businesses into sustainable ventures.
- Digital Focus: The program embraces a “digital by design” approach, equipping female entrepreneurs with technology-based tools to propel their businesses.
- Funding: Following the program, seven of the fifteen participating companies will receive KES 1.2 million each to support their growth.
Meet the 2024 Women in Tech Cohort
A diverse group of 15 Kenyan-owned, female-led businesses will participate in the program:
- Sustainable Tourism: Girah Heritage Ltd. offers unique cultural travel experiences for budget travellers.
- Renewable Energy: MOMA Renewable Energy produces liquid biofuels, with their flagship product being an ethanol-based cooking fuel derived from food waste.
- Social Enterprise: Voda Water, a for-profit social enterprise, works to improve global health.
- Safe Transportation: Zidallie provides comprehensive transport solutions to ensure safe and efficient student transportation.
- Agri-Tech with Blockchain: Investa Farm connects farmers with cryptocurrency lenders worldwide through blockchain and AI technologies.
- Women’s Empowerment: Gwiji for Women is a tech social enterprise that empowers marginalized women working as casual cleaners in slums.
- EdTech Solutions: Meira Education Solutions builds a school search portal and works with tech companies to introduce suitable educational technologies to Kenyan institutions.
- Financial Inclusion for Farmers: Zaoshinani is a Fintech company using technology and data to drive financial inclusion among smallholder farmers.
- Waste Management Solutions: Kavalian Limited is a clean-tech company on a mission to revolutionize waste management and empower communities.
- Retail Optimization: Smart Reja provides a data-driven platform with tools for retailers to optimize inventory, make informed decisions, and increase sales.
- Real Estate Technology: AerialGIS is a web app that integrates subdivision maps with interactive mapping and VR technology for virtual property tours.
- Mental Health Services: PsychCare Clinic, a level 2 mental healthcare facility, offers services regulated by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Board.
- Delivery Management: Jido is an on-demand delivery app that simplifies package deliveries through goods consolidation and route optimization technology.
- STEM Education: Africa Stem Girl (formerly African Tech Girl) exposes individuals aged 7-17 to coding skills.
- Retail Optimization (duplicate): Hayah Cradle To Bloom (appears to be the same as Smart Reja).
Since its inception, the Women in Tech program has attracted over 2,250 applications. It has successfully trained 64 women-led tech startups by providing mentorship, business advisory services, coaching, networking opportunities, access to seed capital, and investor forums.
Thirty-two of these enterprises have received over KES 40 million in seed funding over the past six cohorts.
