Today’s event saw the announcement of the seven women led teams shortlisted from over 350 applicants, win PKR 1,500,000 each, in seed grants for their businesses. The seven teams were selected from a pool of the top 25 teams previously shortlisted and went through the #SCWomenInTech programme for three months where they were offered coaching, mentoring and business management skills to grow their businesses to the next level. The seven winning companies for 2021 are: Civixa – A startup seeking to automate the process of classifying objects and developing algorithms for easy use in artificial intelligence applications Out Class – An online platform to disrupt the Pakistani tuition market through high quality teaching and delivery. Storytellers Club – A traditional venture providing co- and extra-curricular storytelling and play for kids aged 2-10 seeking to establish an online presence post-COVID19. Abey Khao – An innovative venture that provides economic opportunity to the deaf by starting foodcarts that sell through sign language now seeking to build a digital ordering system. Cheezain Etc. – An eCommerce store and one-stop shop for trendy home accessories. MediQ – A digital health app that provides access to online consultations as well as other related services now seeking to scale. SLOSH AI – A software tool that automates the reading and diagnosis from chest x-rays for radiographers and other service providers. The awardees will be supported with extended mentoring and milestone-based disbursement of the winnings for a period of 9 months. This directly aligns with the Bank’s purpose to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity and reinforces that we are Here for good.” Standard Chartered launched Women in Tech in Pakistan in March 2019. Since its launch in Pakistan 70 businesses have gone through extensive training, coaching and mentoring sessions. This programme aims to promote the economic and social development of women in Pakistan through innovation or technology led entrepreneurship. The Women in Tech programme were first launched in October 2014 by Standard Chartered Americas as a local community project. In 2021, the programme was active in nine countries. Between 2019 and April 2021, the programme reached a total of 1,632 young people and provided funding to selected start-ups to grow their business ideas.
