Early-stage women-led companies can raise their first funds through SARDI WeScale Program


FE Online | Published: December 20, 2022 19:43:23 | Updated: December 24, 2022 16:23:47


Representational image.

South Asia Regional Digital Initiative (SARDI) is part of USAID that facilitates enhanced digital connectivity and economic development in South Asia.

WeScale is an initiative under the USAID South Asia Regional Digital Initiative (SARDI), a part of the Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership (DCCP).

The SARDI WeScale program is implemented in partnership with DAI and a power-packed consortia of angel networks and accelerators from across the region, including Bangladesh Angels and its sister chapter Bangladesh Women Investors’ Network, Accelerating Asia, SAFAL Partners, India Accelerator, and Lankan Angel Network.

Program Details and Benefits:

  • WeScale is the first cross-regional accelerator in South Asia focused on women-led companies who want to raise their first funds. The program is designed as a prep program for Accelerating Asia's flagship accelerator program, which has been a forerunner in backing high-potential early stage startups from Bangladesh who've gone on to raise millions of dollars from international investors. 
  • The program is open to women entrepreneurs in Bangladesh.
  • Composed of three main parts:
  • a 12-week virtual program created to get companies ready for growth.
  • WEscale+, a high-touch, intensive four-week program with a live summit that aims to distil the lessons learned through WEscale and attract investors.
  • A program network made up of WEs, mentors, investors, government and other key players in the innovation ecosystem that will help WEs and build a long-lasting, reliable network of contacts for them.

Check the application link for further details.

Eligibility: 

  • Women found/ led enterprises in Bangladesh.
  • Early-stage with at least one product and customers.
  • Tech-enabled company, serving SDGs, with potential to scale nationally and regionally
  • Have not raised any or significant external capital but are starting to fundraise.
  • Women founded or are primary users or key beneficiaries of service delivered. 

Check the application link for further details.

Application Deadline: 31 December 2022

Application Link: 

Interested applicants can check this link for details - https://cutt.ly/y0Atc3f

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