The programme aims to support women-led start-ups in the tech sector through training, mentorship, and equity-free funding.
The programme is designed to boost female entrepreneurship in Egypt's growing tech-enabled economy. It is part of Standard Chartered's global Futuremakers initiative and is funded by the Standard Chartered Foundation. Over three months, selected start-ups will receive business support, investment readiness training, and a chance to win up to $10,000 in equity-free funding.
"This is a proud and powerful moment for us," said Mohammed Gad, CEO and Head of Banking & Coverage at Standard Chartered Egypt. "We believe women entrepreneurs are catalysts for innovation and inclusive growth."
The three-year accelerator will include masterclasses, personalised mentorship, and access to international networks. It builds on AUC Venture Lab's track record of supporting over 1,000 founders since 2013.
"Our newest programme with Standard Chartered and Village Capital will help more women build their tech-enabled ventures and connect with investors," said Ayman Ismail, Founding Director of AUC Venture Lab.
The launch event featured remarks from Rola Abu Manneh, CEO MENAP at Standard Chartered, and Sherif Kamel, Dean of the AUC School of Business. The event also featured a panel discussion on women in tech, which included industry leaders such as Dr Azza El Shinnawy of PortfolioTECH and Farah Emara, founder of Fresh Source.
The programme marks Egypt's first participation in the Futuremakers Women in Tech initiative, which has already reached over 4,000 women entrepreneurs across 17 markets, including Kenya, Nigeria, the UAE, and Pakistan.
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