7 hours agoStandard Chartered Botswana opens applications for Women in Tech Cohort 3

Now entering its third year, the 2026 Women in Tech Accelerator aims to build on this momentum, empowering women-led startups to scale their businesses and create meaningful impact within their communities. Participants will compete for a share of $50,000 (around P700,000) in equity-free seed funding. The programme welcomes women-led cooperatives and businesses from any sector, as well as entrepreneurs living with disabilities.

In many emerging economies, women are driving innovation by launching tech-enabled businesses that address local needs. But early-stage entrepreneurs often face challenges in ecosystems geared toward rapid growth rather than sustainable development. This limits their ability to build resilient business models, create quality jobs, and generate lasting impact.

The Women in Tech Accelerator addresses this gap by offering catalytic grant funding, structured business training, and tailored mentorship. This support equips entrepreneurs with the tools, networks, and confidence they need to build stable, revenue-generating enterprises that deliver long-term economic and social benefits. Mpho Masupe, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Botswana, noted, “The Women in Tech Accelerator has evolved from focusing solely on inclusion to strengthening Botswana’s broader entrepreneurship ecosystem.

[paywall]

The country is at a pivotal point, requiring innovative and sustainable economic solutions to develop a vibrant private sector. The programme’s track record shows that when founders have access to structured, local support and catalytic funding, they can sharpen their strategies, attract investors, and create sustainable public impact. We’re excited to see the difference the 2026 cohort will make in their businesses and communities.”

[/paywall]