Apply for Future is Female 5th Edition by July 31st

Allison, a global integrated marketing and communications agency, has proudly announced the 5th Anniversary Edition of the Future is Female Mentorship Program. This PR and communications initiative, dedicated exclusively to African female tech founders, has grown tremendously since its inception, becoming a significant force in supporting African women in the tech ecosystem.

The 5th edition is marked by a significant partnership with Salesforce Ventures Impact Fund. This collaboration, now in its second year, joins longtime sponsors including TechCabal, Africa Communications Week, and F6S, the world’s largest startup database. These partnerships underscore the program’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem.

Lauryn Poyser, Investor at Salesforce Ventures Impact Fund, expressed, “We’re excited to participate in a program that is dedicated to equipping female founders, particularly in Africa, with tools to build their business for long-term resilience. Salesforce Ventures Impact Fund remains committed to fostering a more inclusive venture capital ecosystem and supporting underrepresented founders.”

How to Apply for “Future is Female” 2024 Mentorship Program:

The application portal for the fifth edition of The Future is Female Mentorship Program is now open and will close on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. African female tech founders, either based on the continent or in the diaspora, who are launching or growing tech businesses for African markets are encouraged to apply. The successful female founders will be announced on Monday, August 19, 2024.

To apply, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Application Portal: Go to the official website at The Future is Female Mentorship Program.
2. Complete the Application Form: Provide detailed information about your tech startup, including its mission, target market, and how it serves African communities.
3. Submit Supporting Documents: Include any relevant documents that highlight your business plan, team, and current achievements.
4. Focus on Specific Sectors: Special consideration will be given to startups focusing on health, education, finance, agriculture, sustainability, and solutions addressing African women’s and girls’ needs.

Program Offerings

The Future is Female Mentorship Program offers a comprehensive suite of PR and communications insights tailored to the unique needs of early-stage tech startups. This includes:

• Creating a Communications Plan: Learn how to craft a strategic plan to effectively communicate your business goals and values.
• Business Storytelling: Master the art of storytelling to engage multiple stakeholders, from investors to customers.
• Digital Marketing: Gain insights into digital marketing strategies to enhance your online presence and reach a broader audience.
• Media Relations: Understand the fundamentals of engaging with the media to gain visibility for your startup.
• Personal Branding: Develop a strong personal brand that complements your business identity.

Delivered virtually, the program includes masterclasses and customized sessions tailored to the specific needs of each sector and business. This flexible format ensures that participants from across the continent can benefit from the mentorship.

Importance of the Program

The Future is Female Mentorship Program is not just about providing technical skills; it’s about empowering African female tech founders to thrive in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Since its launch in 2020, the program has attracted applications from 37 countries across Africa, marking a 253% increase in applications. This growth reflects the program’s impact and its vital role in fostering a more inclusive tech ecosystem.

Claudine Moore, Managing Director Africa and Founder of The Future Is Female Mentorship Program, remarked, “I am delighted to celebrate The Future is Female Mentorship Program’s fifth anniversary and its incredible journey supporting African female tech founders. This milestone highlights our commitment and dedication to empowering underserved African women in tech.”

Recognition and Growth

The program has gained pan-African and global recognition, featured in prestigious publications such as Forbes, TechCabal, PC Tech Magazine, TechTrend Kenya, and Disrupt Africa. This visibility has helped elevate the profiles of the participating founders and their startups, providing them with opportunities for further growth and investment.

Previous partners, such as Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Program, have contributed to the program’s success. Their collaboration has helped increase the program’s reach and resources, allowing more women to participate in the rapidly growing tech sector.

Conclusion

The Future is Female Mentorship Program is a beacon of hope and opportunity for African female tech founders. By providing essential PR and communications skills, the program empowers women to build resilient businesses, gain visibility, and drive change in the tech industry. As the program celebrates its fifth anniversary, it continues to pave the way for a future where African women not only participate but thrive in the technology sector.