The Standard Chartered Women in Technology Incubator stands as Africa’s premier incubator programme dedicated to female-led and founded businesses. This initiative seeks to address the need for greater diversity in technology and entrepreneurship while providing more opportunities for women to excel in entrepreneurial and leadership roles. The programme is a testament to Standard Chartered Bank’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement, particularly in fostering innovation, infrastructure, and technology.

This impactful programme, spearheaded by Standard Chartered Bank Zambia in collaboration with BongoHive, follows the success of the Women in Tech programmes previously implemented in Kenya, Nigeria, and Bahrain.

Programme Objectives and Structure

The primary goal of the incubator is to support Zambian women entrepreneurs or business owners who are leveraging digital technology to scale their businesses but are in need of additional support. The programme is designed to offer comprehensive assistance in various critical areas, including business operations, digitisation, digital transformation, accounting, and financial management. Through this initiative, female-led entrepreneurial teams receive training, mentorship, and seed funding.

Participants embark on their journey with a 3-month incubation programme, which is followed by a 6-month acceleration programme for those who are selected from the initial incubation phase. This structure aims to provide sustained support and development for the most promising businesses.

SC Women in Tech Cohort 4: Celebrating the Top 6 Winners

On Thursday, 18th July 2024, the Standard Chartered Bank Headquarters buzzed with excitement as the final pitch and demo day for the SC Women in Tech Cohort 4 unfolded. Fourteen female-led businesses showcased their innovative solutions to a distinguished panel of judges, competing for the chance to secure funding to advance their ventures. The judges, including Gladys Daka, COO of Standard Chartered Bank; Chomba Bowa, Founder and CEO of Meraki Cafe and Cakes; and Muchu Kaingu, Cofounder and CTO of Lupiya, evaluated the pitches based on their creativity, viability, and potential impact. After much deliberation, six startups emerged victorious, each awarded $10,000 to further develop their businesses. This event not only highlighted the remarkable talent within the cohort but also reinforced the critical role of women in driving technological innovation and entrepreneurship.

Congratulations to the SC Women in Tech Cohort 4 Top 6 participants:

•  WilaWane Store Limited
•  Berry Green Enterprise
• Koloso-Application Technology
• Kiddies Commute
•  Chiseko Agritech and Logistics Ltd
•  Promaid Cleaning Services

Highlighting the Top Winners

WilaWane Store Limited

WilaWane Store Limited, Zambia’s first wooden educational toys and bookstore, promotes learning through play in a screen-free environment. Their products include wooden toys, Montessori-aligned toys, STEM kits, storybooks, and custom furniture for children aged 0 to 6. They generate income by selling to parents, caregivers, educators, and schools, primarily through social media and a newly launched e-commerce platform.

Berry Green Enterprise

Berry Green offers fresh, locally sourced meals via an online platform, catering to both individuals and businesses. By using local, organic produce and advanced technology, they deliver eco-friendly meals, promoting healthy eating while supporting local farmers and reducing environmental impact.

Koloso-Application Technology

Koloso provides a platform that gives teachers, students, parents, and principals the data needed to identify and address learning gaps. This supports continuous progress tracking and focused study efforts, contributing to SDG 4 by ensuring quality education for all children.

Kiddies Commute

Kiddies Commute offers specialised transportation services for children, with rigorous driver screening, child-friendly vehicles, and real-time tracking. This service ensures safety and peace of mind for parents while simplifying logistics and reducing traffic congestion through shared rides.

Chiseko Agritech and Logistics Ltd

Chiseko Agritech and Logistics Ltd provides a digital platform (USSD, website, and mobile application) that integrates technology and agricultural expertise to empower farmers and streamline operations for buyers. This enhances agricultural practices, connects farmers with buyers, and promotes sustainable development.

Promaid Cleaning Services

Promaid Cleaning Services connects customers with vetted cleaners for various needs, including deep cleaning, move in/out cleaning, specialised cleaning, housekeeping, laundry, contract cleaning, and mobile office janitors. They also offer a retail store for cleaning tools and chemicals, ensuring high standards of cleanliness and customer satisfaction.

Looking Ahead

The Standard Chartered Women in Technology Incubator, in partnership with BongoHive, continues to champion the cause of female entrepreneurship in Zambia. By providing essential support and resources, the programme not only empowers women but also contributes to the broader goals of economic development and technological advancement.

Congratulations to all the winners! We look forward to seeing the incredible advancements these startups will achieve in the coming months.

At BongoHive, we are committed to nurturing a vibrant and inclusive startup ecosystem that supports innovation and growth across Zambia.