"Apply Now: Aurora Tech Awards 2024 (Up to $60,000)"

Application deadline: December 1, 2023

In a world where gender equality remains a formidable challenge, the African tech industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, epitomized by the prestigious Aurora Tech Awards. Launched in 2020, the Aurora Tech Awards stand as a global annual celebration, honoring women founders of IT startups who are redefining boundaries and dispelling stereotypes in the tech arena. Today, the Aurora Tech Awards joyfully declare the opening of entries for the 2024 edition.

Paving the Way for Women in Tech: A Recap of the 2023 Aurora Tech Awards

The 2023 Aurora Tech Awards bore testament to a significant shift in Africa's technological landscape. A substantial portion of the nominations shone a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of African women in tech, hailing from nations like Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda. These visionary women helm IT startups that have not only brought substantial value to their communities but have also fervently supported fellow entrepreneurs in their journeys. The 2023 award laurel was finally adorned by Elizabeth Mwangi from Kenya, and her groundbreaking startup, Gwiji for Women. This initiative connects cleaners residing in Nairobi's slums with clients in need, bringing about transformative change.

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The Threefold Mission of the Aurora Tech Awards:

The Aurora Tech Awards holds a threefold mission:

• To celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of women in IT entrepreneurship.
• To empower these trailblazers with the substantial financial rewards they deserve.
• To obliterate the gender biases that have for long constrained the tech industry.

An Invitation to Shatter Boundaries: The Application Criteria

To be considered for the Aurora Tech Awards, applications must meet the following criteria:

1. Women Founder: The startup must be founded or co-founded and led by a woman entrepreneur.

2. Funding Stage: The startup should not have received investments exceeding $4 million in funding, including the seed round.

3. Operation Time: The startup must be no more than 5 years old.

4. Minimum Viable Product (MVP): The startup should possess a functional prototype. Applications with only an idea will not be considered.

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The Rewards of Innovation: Benefits of Participation

Participating in the Aurora Tech Awards brings forth a myriad of benefits:

• Fuel Business Growth: Winners stand to receive significant cash prizes, including $30,000 for the first prize, $20,000 for the second, and $10,000 for the third.
• Global Community: Connect with a vibrant global community of women tech entrepreneurs.
• Amplified Brand Visibility: Benefit from PR support that elevates the visibility of finalists, attracting new audiences, partners, and investors.
• Expert Insights: Receive valuable feedback from Venture Capital experts and jury members to refine your startup.
• Guidance and Mentorship: Engage with inDrive’s C-level executives and industry experts through a finalist mentorship program.
• Network Expansion: Expand your network and gain recognition within the startup ecosystem.

Key Dates:

• Submission Period: September 5 to December 1, 2023.
• Finalist Announcement: January 31, 2024.
• Final Assessments and Winner Announcement: March 8, 2024.

The Aurora Tech Awards herald a future where innovation knows no gender, where the boundless potential of women is celebrated, and where the tech industry stands as a testament to the capabilities of all, irrespective of gender. It's not just about breaking glass ceilings; it's about forging an industry that thrives on inclusivity and diversity.