In a focused effort to elevate female entrepreneurship within the local tech sector, Orange Jordan has launched the fifth edition of its “Inspiring Change” Award.
Running in collaboration with Capital Bank and the Information and Communications Technology Association of Jordan (int@j), the initiative operates under the Women Economic Empowerment Unit-SHETECHS.
Timed alongside International Women’s Day, the 2026 program provides capital and visibility to women scaling digital solutions across the Kingdom.
Quick Facts
- Top performing startup secures JD 3,000 in non-dilutive capital.
- New JD 2,000 prize targets sustainable technology solutions.
- Qualifying startups must maintain 25 percent female team representation.
Expanding Financial Support for Women in Tech
The 2026 edition introduces expanded financial incentives for participating founders. The program awards JD 3,000 to the first-place winner, JD 2,000 for second place, and JD 1,000 for third place.
In a new addition for this cohort, organizers introduced a specific JD 2,000 prize dedicated to the most innovative project focused on sustainable solutions.
Eng. Rana Al Dababneh, Chief Corporate, Internal Communications, & Sustainability Officer at Orange Jordan, noted that the initiative has served as a critical platform since its inception in 2022.
She emphasized the program’s role in empowering women by highlighting their entrepreneurial projects and digital innovations, thereby improving competitive opportunities for women-led ventures in Jordan.
Strategic Partnerships Driving Ecosystem Growth
Corporate collaboration remains central to the award’s structure. Capital Bank returns as a primary supporter, aligning with broader goals to accelerate digital transformation and economic growth in the region.
Touleen Barto, Chief Marketing and Corporate Communications Officer at Capital Bank, affirmed the institution’s commitment to enabling women entrepreneurs in promising digital areas, noting that the platform effectively highlights female success stories within the ICT sector.
Zain Asfour, Head of Women Economic Empowerment Unit SHETECHS, reinforced the value of corporate partnerships in driving digital inclusion. She stated that the shared effort allows female entrepreneurs to access essential resources, opportunities, and professional networks required to build a diverse digital system.
Asfour added that rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies make empowering women in the sector a strategic priority for national economic competitiveness.
Eligibility Criteria for Tech Startups in Jordan
Organizers have set clear operational and demographic requirements for applicants. The applying individual must be a founder, a 50 percent co-founder, a CEO, or a managing director of an active startup registered in Jordan.
Additionally, the startup must demonstrate a positive social and environmental impact that aligns with sustainable development goals.
The company must also operate as a competitive, digital entity with clear growth potential. Interested founders have until March 31 to submit their applications.
About Orange Jordan
Orange Jordan is a telecommunications operator serving more than 5 million customers with fixed lines, mobile, internet, and smart life solutions. Operating nearly 300 shops with around 1,600 employees, it is a subsidiary of the global Orange Group. The company integrates a comprehensive corporate social responsibility strategy focused on digital education, digital inclusion, entrepreneurship, and climate initiatives.
Source: Zawya
