Elly Yates-Roberts |
Microsoft and She Loves Tech have partnered to empower female entrepreneurs in Asia and contribute towards inclusive economic growth. Start-ups in the She Loves Tech community will also gain access to Microsoft technology, learning resources and technical expertise.
Through the partnership, Microsoft will provide an Azure-powered digital platform to facilitate connections between female entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and angel investors, to help She Loves Tech reach its goal of unlocking US$1 billion in capital for women-led businesses by 2030.
“Women will play an integral role in Asia’s next phase of growth,” said Ahmed Mazhari, president of Microsoft Asia. “We believe that inclusion and true gender parity can only be achieved through collaboration with the industry at large. Organisations like She Loves Tech are critical to create access and inspire women to become part of the tech industry. We know everyone wins when women are included.”
According to Microsoft, the partnership aims to reduce the barriers facing women-led start-ups. Participants of this year’s She Loves Tech’s global start-up competition will have access to Microsoft technology to innovate, as well as targeted learning content on Microsoft Learn and LinkedIn Learning.
“We are thrilled to have Microsoft on board with us to support women entrepreneurs in realising their ambitions and as we work toward creating a level playing field for them in Asia,” said Leanne Robers, co-founder of She Loves Tech. “By helping over 10,000 women entrepreneurs gain access to funding, a global network, and support from other women founders from around the world, we hope their success will indirectly contribute towards creating 100,000 jobs across local economies in Asia.”