1
Tech Enabled Start-ups
Businesses that harness technology as a fundamental driver of innovation, scalability, and efficiency across diverse industries.
2
At Least One Female Founder
The startup must have at least one woman in a founding or co-founding role, ensuring female leadership at the decision-making level.
3
Pre-Series A to Series B
Open to startups that have progressed beyond the early idea stage, showing market validation and growth potential but are not yet at late-stage funding.
4
Revenue Generating
Startups must have an active business model with proven revenue streams, demonstrating market demand and financial viability.
At Prosus, we believe in the power of innovation, sustainability, and inclusion to drive meaningful change. With the aim of unlocking female potential, we are proud to introduce the FoundHER Tech Challenge—an initiative designed to unlock women-led entrepreneurial growth.
By offering equity-free funding and visibility, we aim to empower a community of women founders to reshape the tech landscape.
Are you the Tech FoundHER?
Eligibility Criteria
Key Dates Timeline
Prosus in Numbers
At Prosus, we are committed to shaping a future where transformative ideas get the support they deserve.
We enhance everyday life for billions through innovation. By backing local entrepreneurs who create impactful products for over two billion customers, we help communities thrive. We empower our teams to grow, build meaningful careers, and create lasting value for all.
Our Partners
1. Apply
Submit your pitch by April 4, 2025, and take the first step toward securing equity-free funding. We’re looking for innovative, scalable, and tech-enabled startups with at least one female founder.
2. Screening
Our expert jury, comprising industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem enablers, will carefully evaluate each application. Startups will be assessed based on innovation, market potential, scalability, and impact.
3. The Final Pitch
The top 6 shortlisted startups will be invited to pitch live in front of an esteemed panel of investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. This high-impact event will provide unparalleled visibility and access to key industry stakeholders.
4. Announcing the Winners
Three exceptional startups will be selected as winners, securing equity-free grants to fuel their growth:
First Place: $50,000 Grant
Second Place: $30,000 Grant
Third Place: $20,000 Grant
Why Tech FoundHER?
Up to US$50k in Equity Free Grants
An opportunity for women-led startups to secure funding without giving up equity, enabling them to scale their ventures on their own terms.
Industry Recognition & Visibility
Gain unparalleled exposure, connect with key industry leaders, and position your startup at the forefront of the tech ecosystem.
Encubay
Encubay is a Global Business Network aimed at bridging equity in Entrepreneurship & Investing. At Encubay, we are building an ecosystem that furthers innovation, wealth creation, and tech-enabled growth for founders and stakeholders.
Vaia
Vaia is a global investment and sustainability advisory firm, integrating international best practices with innovative strategies to drive impactful, future-ready solutions in investment management and ESG consulting.
Heading 2
1. Apply
Submit your pitch by April 4, 2025, and take the first step toward securing equity-free funding. We’re looking for innovative, scalable, and tech-enabled startups with at least one female founder.
2. Screening & Shortlisting
Our expert jury, comprising industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem enablers, will carefully evaluate each application. Startups will be assessed based on innovation, market potential, scalability, and impact.
3. The Final Pitch
The top 6 shortlisted startups will be invited to pitch live in front of an esteemed panel of investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. This high-impact event will provide unparalleled visibility and access to key industry stakeholders.
4. Announcing the Winners
Three exceptional startups will be selected as winners, securing equity-free grants to fuel their growth:
First Place: $50,000 Grant
Second Place: $30,000 Grant
Third Place: $20,000 Grant
How it works?
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8th
March 2025
Applications Open
Begin your journey—submit your application to be part of the Challenge.
4th
April 2025
Applications Close
Final call for submissions—ensure your application is in before the deadline.
25th
May 2025
Final Pitch & Awards
Celebrating innovation—where top founders showcase their vision and receive support to scale.
At Prosus, we are committed to shaping a future where transformative ideas get the support they deserve.
We enhance everyday life for billions through innovation. By backing local entrepreneurs who create impactful products for over two billion customers, we help communities thrive. We empower our teams to grow, build meaningful careers, and create lasting value for all.
