Global banking giant Standard Chartered has partnered with Falak Investment Hub to launch the fourth cohort of the “Women in Tech” program in Saudi Arabia. The initiative aims to drive sustainable economic growth, foster digital innovation, and financially empower female technology founders operating within the Kingdom.
Quick Facts
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Up to $45,000 (169,000 SAR) in equity-free seed capital.
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Program alumni generated over 82 million SAR in revenue.
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Applications for the 2026 cohort close on May 16.
Scaling Female-Led Tech Ventures in Saudi Arabia
The initiative is part of Standard Chartered’s global mandate to accelerate women-led technology startups. By providing specialized training, catalytic funding, and access to international business networks, the program directly addresses the early-stage funding gap for female entrepreneurs.
Falak Investment Hub will execute the program locally, leveraging its established track record in supporting founders and developing the broader Saudi venture ecosystem.
High Survival Rates and Post-Program Investment
Selected startups will receive up to 169,000 SAR ($45,000) in equity-free seed capital provided directly by Standard Chartered.
Since its inception in Saudi Arabia, the “Women in Tech” program has backed 26 female-led startups. These companies have collectively generated more than 82 million SAR in total revenue while expanding their core technical solutions.
Data from previous cohorts highlights strong post-program performance. Currently, 83% of the supported startups remain fully operational.
Furthermore, 66% successfully secured follow-on investment after completing the accelerator, indicating high commercial readiness and robust business models.
These companies have also contributed significantly to the local economy by creating over 85 jobs within the Saudi innovation sector.
Driving Vision 2030 Economic Diversification
Mazen Al-Bunyan, CEO and Head of Corporate, Commercial and Institutional Banking at Standard Chartered Saudi Arabia, emphasized the bank’s long-term commitment to female leadership in the digital economy.
“This initiative aims to accelerate high-potential founders by connecting them with the right capabilities, capital pathways, and strategic networks needed to scale effectively in a competitive market,” Al-Bunyan said.
He added that empowering female entrepreneurs directly supports Saudi Vision 2030 objectives. By enabling women to fully participate in expanding new sectors, the program fosters a diverse and sustainable future economy.
Adwa Al-Dakheel, Founder and CEO of Falak Investment Hub, noted the increasing volume of robust female-led startups across the region.
“The real challenge is helping these companies navigate the early stages and grow into sustainable businesses,” Al-Dakheel explained.
“Through the ‘Women in Tech’ program, we work with our partners to support founders with the networks and resources they need to grow and make a lasting impact,” she added.
About the Women in Tech Program
The Women in Tech program by Standard Chartered, implemented locally by Falak Investment Hub, is an accelerator designed to help female entrepreneurs overcome common scaling challenges. It provides tailored operational support, equity-free financial grants, and extensive mentorship to ensure long-term community impact. Falak has previously supported over 180 startups and 40,000 beneficiaries through its high-impact growth programs. Applications for the newest cohort close on May 16, 2026, with the accelerator officially commencing on June 14.
Source: Aleqt
