Women entrepreneurs face a big challenge: a funding gap worth $1.9 trillion in 2026. This gap grew from $1.7 trillion the year before. To help close it, Grey started the UpGreyed Her initiative. It offers $10,000 in equity-free grants to women-led startups in emerging markets and other places.
About the UpGreyed Her Initiative
UpGreyed Her is a global program to grow women-led businesses. It gives money and tools to help these companies expand. The focus is on women who use technology to fix real problems in the world.
Grey says investing in women founders does more than fill a gap. It taps into new ideas and boosts economies. The program supports startups in cities like Lagos, São Paulo, and Jakarta. This creates wider effects across regions.
Grant Details
The total pot is $10,000 in equity-free funding. Three women founders will win:
- 1st place gets $5,000.
- 1st runner-up gets $3,000.
- 2nd runner-up gets $2,000.
No equity is required. Founders keep full control to build their businesses.
Why You Should Apply
Applying brings real benefits. You get equity-free money to grow your company. You join a network of women founders around the world. Your business gains visibility and trust. Plus, you get help from a solid financial platform.
Eligibility Criteria
Not everyone qualifies. Check these rules:
- The business must be founded by a woman or have a female co-founder with at least 50% ownership.
- The company needs to have run for at least 3 years.
- The founder must be 23 to 40 years old.
- You must live in or be a citizen of places like Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe, Latin America, the UK, or the US.
- Your business must use technology to solve real problems and be set to grow bigger.
Application Timeline
Act fast. Applications opened on March 18, 2026. The deadline is April 20, 2026, at 9:00 AM Pacific Time. Apply early to skip any rush problems.
Transparent Evaluation Process
A panel of expert women judges will review entries. They know business, tech, and management. The process stays fair and clear. It picks ventures with strong growth and impact.
How to Apply
Go to the official platform to submit. Read the full rules and terms first. Make sure you fit all criteria.
Pro Tip
Make your application stand out. Show clear proof of your impact and plans to scale. Explain how your tech fixes a problem and how the grant speeds up growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UpGreyed Her initiative?
UpGreyed Her is a global program by Grey that provides $10,000 in equity-free grants to women-led startups using technology to solve real-world problems in emerging markets and other regions.
Who is eligible to apply for the grants?
Eligibility includes women founders or female co-founders with at least 50% ownership, aged 23-40, with a business running for at least 3 years, from specific regions like Africa, Latin America, or the US, and focused on scalable tech solutions.
What are the grant prize amounts?
The grants total $10,000: $5,000 for 1st place, $3,000 for 1st runner-up, and $2,000 for 2nd runner-up, with no equity required.
When is the application deadline?
Applications opened on March 18, 2026, and close on April 20, 2026, at 9:00 AM Pacific Time, so apply early to avoid issues.
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