Global technology groups Naspers and Prosus have officially launched the Tech FoundHER Africa Challenge, a programme designed to support women-led tech and tech-enabled startups across the African continent. Following a successful pilot in India earlier this year, the initiative underscores the companies' commitment to empowering female founders and bridging the gender gap in technology entrepreneurship.
Research shows that women account for 26 of Africa's entrepreneurs, yet female-led startups receive less than 3 of venture capital funding, with a 42 billion funding gap. Addressing this gap could unlock up to 316 billion in GDP growth. Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, South Africa CEO and Executive Director of Naspers and Prosus, emphasized that the Tech FoundHER Challenge aims to provide women founders with the capital, networks, and market access needed to scale, driving growth and innovation across communities and the broader continent.
The programme offers three equity-free grants totaling US100,000 to outstanding women founders in Africa, alongside access to senior mentors, curated networking opportunities, and enhanced visibility. Participants will also receive expert feedback from a high-calibre panel of executives, investors, and business leaders. Six shortlisted finalists will have the unique opportunity to present their ventures at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange on 19 November 2025, coinciding with Global Women's Entrepreneurship Day.
