• SPLORO, TechUkraine, Startup Wise Guys, and Business Angels Europe team up once more for the second Open Call of the EmpoWomen startup acceleration program
• The Program is meant for female founders of DeepTech startups registered in the countries and areas of broader Europe
• In addition to tailored mentorship, 14 finalists will receive non-equity cash prizes as well as other benefits
• The applications for startups are open until December 2nd

This Autumn, SPLORO, an innovation consultancy based in Spain, TechUkraine, NGO and media platform bridging Ukraine’s tech-ecosystem with the world, Startup Wise Guys, a global accelerator, and Business Angels Europe, the European Confederation of Angel Investing, once again join forces to empower female founders through resources, mentorship, and networking support to foster an inclusive business ecosystem.

Empowering Female Founders in Broader Europe

Running two Open Calls from 2024 to 2025, the EmpoWomen program seeks out 25 women-led DeepTech startups, providing each with non-repayable support of EUR 45K in equity-free funding. In addition to financial backing, selected founders will receive a suite of benefits valued up to EUR 60K per startup, including prizes, service packages, and vouchers for tech event participation. The program combines tailored mentorship and acceleration to dismantle barriers for women entrepreneurs, promoting their success in the tech landscape.

Notably, only companies legally established in Widening Area, Outermost regions, and Associated countries are eligible. Namely, this includes: Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Réunion, Martinique, Mayotte, Saint-Martin, Canary Islands, Albania, Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Faroe Islands, North Macedonia, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Tunisia, Turkey, and Ukraine.

EmpoWomen’s first Open Call ran from January 8th to March 8th, attracting 169 applications from women-led deep tech startups across 23 emerging market countries in broader Europe. Following a rigorous selection process, 11 startups led by female founders, six of which originated from Central and Eastern Europe, were chosen to join the program.

These first participants will showcase their startups at the Demo Day which will be held on November 19th, 2024, as a side event of the famous SLUSH event in Helsinki, Finland.

As for the second Open Call, it accepts applications from evaluators until November 18th and from startups founders – until December 2nd. The thorough evaluation of startups will proceed until February, and then 14 participants of the acceleration program will be announced. The acceleration program itself will run from March until October 2025.

Overview of the Organizers

SPLORO is an innovation consultancy agency based in Spain, dedicated to empowering startups, researchers, and aspiring tech entrepreneurs through funding, training, and resources tailored to their specific needs. Focusing on areas like AI, blockchain, and quantum cryptography, SPLORO provides crucial support for individuals from scientific and academic backgrounds, helping them transition into business and entrepreneurial ventures. Additionally, they participate in EU-funded initiatives to support diversity in technology by fostering more inclusive leadership and entrepreneurial opportunities for women.

TechUkraine is an NGO and media platform dedicated to connecting Ukraine’s tech ecosystem with global audiences. The organization promotes and develops Ukraine’s tech and innovation sectors by fostering collaboration between startups, investors, and industry leaders, aiming to position Ukraine as a global tech hub. Through events, international partnerships, and a network of tech media, TechUkraine supports the visibility and growth of Ukrainian tech companies while also providing resources to help them scale internationally​.

Startup Wise Guys is a leading international accelerator specializing in B2B startups, with a focus on scaling tech companies across diverse verticals such as Fintech, SaaS, cybersecurity, and sustainability. Founded in 2012 in Estonia, Startup Wise Guys has expanded its operations globally, supporting 400+ startups in 60+ countries and earning awards for its influence, including the 2023 Best Accelerator accolade from the Global Startup Awards. The program provides mentorship, investment (up to EUR 150K initially, with follow-on options), and strategic support, helping early-stage tech founders navigate challenges and grow within an international network of investors and mentors

Business Angels Europe serves as a key advocate for angel investing across Europe, representing national angel associations and leading networks. Focused on fostering a vibrant investment environment, Business Angels Europe connects emerging angel investors with experienced networks and supports growth in both established and developing European markets. Through initiatives like their ESIL – Next Gen of Angels program, Business Angels Europe works to improve cross-border investment opportunities, create legal frameworks for transnational deals, and promote inclusivity, with a special emphasis on gender diversity in angel investing.

Startup evaluators and founders are welcome to find out more about the acceleration program and its second Open Call at EmpoWomen’s official website.