The MTN Foundation has launched the second edition of the MTN Women in Digital Business Challenge, offering R1 million (US$53,600) to support South African female-led digital businesses. The aim is to help women grow their tech ventures in the male-dominated ICT industry.
Finalists have been chosen, each receiving R100,000 for working capital and investments. Despite women comprising over half of South Africa's population, their presence in the ICT sector remains low. MTN seeks to change this by promoting female talent and highlighting their potential for success in tech.
Lesimola Selepe, senior manager at MTN Foundation, hopes their success will inspire more women to start businesses or pursue tech careers. The challenge was open to female alumni of MTN's ICT SMME small business accelerator program.
Finalists will undergo a four-month mentorship program focusing on growth, marketing and financial management. MTN Foundation GM Arthur Mukhuvha emphasizes the impact on women-owned ICT SMMEs, aiming for sustainability and growth.