Standard Chartered is set to host its Cohort 4 Women in Tech Pitch and Graduation Ceremony in September.

This event will celebrate the achievements of 20 remarkable women who have completed the Standard Chartered Women in Tech (SCWIT) program.

Despite the rapid growth of the technology sector, women remain significantly underrepresented, particularly in leadership roles and entrepreneurial ventures.

According to recent studies, women hold only 26% of computing-related jobs, and an even smaller percentage are leading tech startups.

For female entrepreneurs who own technology SMEs, these challenges are exacerbated by limited access to funding, mentorship, and networks, which are crucial for business growth and sustainability.

Addressing these barriers is not just a matter of fairness; it’s an economic imperative. Research shows that gender-diverse teams are 21% more likely to experience above-average profitability, highlighting the untapped potential of women in tech.

Recognizing this, the Standard Chartered Women in Tech (SCWIT) program was established to provide women with the tools, support, and opportunities they need to succeed in the technology industry.

Throughout the program, participants engage in a series of intensive in person and online classes and workshops covering various aspects of entrepreneurship, including business strategy, financial management, marketing, and sustainable business practices and also provides access to one-on-one mentorship from industry experts, networking opportunities, and hands-on experience in developing and refining their business ideas.

This comprehensive approach ensures that by the end of the six-month incubation, participants are well-prepared to lead successful and impactful tech enterprises.

The Pitch and Graduation Ceremony will serve as a platform to showcase the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of these women, demonstrating the transformative impact that female-led businesses can have on the tech industry and the broader economy.

The event will foster connections among entrepreneurs, investors, and industry stakeholders, creating opportunities for collaboration and further growth.

As SCWIT continues to bridge the gender gap in technology, this ceremony not only marks the end of a journey for Cohort 4 participants but also the beginning of new possibilities for women in tech across Ghana.

"As a bank that champions diversity and inclusion, we are incredibly proud to support these talented women who are breaking barriers in the tech industry," said Asiedua Addae, Head of Corporate Affairs and Brand & Marketing, Standard Chartered Bank Ghana.

"Through the SCWIT program, we are not only empowering these entrepreneurs to grow their businesses but also contributing to the broader goal of achieving gender equality in the tech sector and beyond. We believe that by investing in women, we are investing in the future of our economy."