inDrive has officially opened applications for the Aurora Tech Award 2026, a global initiative recognizing and supporting women founders in technology startups. The annual program aims to promote gender equality in the startup ecosystem by providing financial assistance, mentorship, and international visibility to women entrepreneurs working on impactful products and solutions. The Aurora Tech Award continues its mission to challenge inequality and empower women in technology through funding, networking, and community building opportunities.
This year’s Aurora Open Call invites female founders worldwide to share their innovative visions and contribute to reshaping the tech industry. With a total prize fund of $100,000, the top three winners will receive cash awards of $50,000, $30,000, and $20,000 respectively. Participants will also gain valuable exposure through media representation, mentorship from inDrive executives, and insights from venture capital experts. The program offers guidance and feedback to both longlist and shortlist participants, ensuring that every founder receives value from the experience regardless of the competition stage.
The competition timeline outlines several key dates for applicants. The open call began on August 12, 2025, and will close on November 12, 2025. From there, 100 quarterfinalists will be announced on December 8, followed by 30 semifinalists on January 14, 2026. The top 10 finalists will be revealed on February 16, 2026, and will then participate in a mentorship program running from February 23 to March 13, 2026. The final award ceremony is scheduled to take place between March 28 and April 1, with the exact date and location to be confirmed by February 2026.
Eligible startups must be founded or co-founded and led by a woman, have a functional product prototype, and be within the $6 million investment limit, including the seed round. Additionally, participating startups must be less than five years old and submit their presentations in English. inDrive emphasizes that it is seeking startups committed to creating a positive social impact through technology, reinforcing the company’s broader mission to challenge social injustice by fostering meaningful connections.
Statistics shared by inDrive highlight the ongoing funding gap in the tech industry. Only 2.3 percent of global venture capital goes to women-led startups, while 34 percent of female founders reported burnout in 2023. The Aurora Tech Award has seen increasing interest, with 3,491 women founders applying in previous years and many reporting significant business growth after participation. According to 2023 finalist Marie-Reine Seshie, some startups saw up to a fivefold increase in annual revenue following the program.
By offering mentorship, funding, and international exposure, the Aurora Tech Award continues to serve as a vital platform for women entrepreneurs to advance their innovations and amplify their voices in the global startup ecosystem. For application details and eligibility criteria, interested participants can visit the official Aurora Tech Award page.
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