Standard Chartered, in partnership with Village Capital, has announced the launch of the eighth edition of the “Women in Tech” program in the UAE. This initiative aims to empower female entrepreneurs and accelerate the growth of startups in the technology sector, promoting innovation, diversity, and sustainable economic development.
The 2026 version of the program offers a comprehensive package that includes specialized training for investment readiness, financial incentives, and access to global business networks. This equips female entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to confidently scale their projects in both local and international markets. The program will be implemented in collaboration with the consulting firm “3C,” leveraging its experience in supporting entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Rola Aboumenna, CEO of Standard Chartered in the UAE, Middle East, and Pakistan, emphasized that the UAE is solidifying its position as a global hub for innovation and knowledge economy. She noted the crucial role female entrepreneurs play in driving growth by presenting innovative business models that contribute to shaping the economy of the future.
Meanwhile, Nakami Waloniwa, Regional Director for Africa and the Middle East at Village Capital, pointed out that the program has helped women-led companies generate over two million dollars in additional revenue in 2025, underscoring the importance of structured support and financial incentives for enhancing the sustainability of startups.
Media Nocentini, founder of C3, explained that the program goes beyond financial and training support by fostering a comprehensive community of female entrepreneurs who continue to uplift each other even after the program concludes, ensuring long-term impact sustainability. On a global scale, the program has a strong track record, having supported over 4,000 women across 17 markets, with more than $600,000 earmarked for funding in 2026 across 12 markets. Standard Chartered encourages female entrepreneurs in the UAE to apply for the program before May 15, 2026, with activities scheduled to run from June to October.