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Prosus Tech FoundHER Challenge launches in India with $50K for women-led startups

Entrackr · 22d

Prosus has launched the Tech FoundHER Challenge in association with Encubay, a global network focused on bridging equity in entrepreneurship and investing, and VAIA Climate, an investment advisory firm. This initiative aims to bridge the funding gap in the Indian tech ecosystem by providing a launchpad for women-led startups to scale, secure funding, and access global networks. Encubay is committed to empowering female founders with access to capital, networks, and mentorship. Prosus has invested nearly $9 billion in India, backing successful startups like Swiggy, Meesho, Captain Fresh, and PharmEasy. Women-led startups receive less than 5% of global venture capital funding, highlighting a critical gap. The FoundHER Challenge offers catalytic capital and opportunities to female-led startups in India. Women-led tech startups can apply before April 4, 2025, and 30 shortlisted founders will be selected based on innovation, scalability, and impact. The top six founders will pitch in an in-person session on May 25, 2025, in Bangalore, and three winners will receive up to $50K in equity-free funding.