Aurora Tech Award 2025 Opens to Empower Female Founders in Emerging Markets

Applications are now open for the Aurora Tech Award 2025. This global initiative recognizes outstanding women entrepreneurs in technology. The deadline for submissions is November 12, 2025.

The award is run by inDrive, a global mobility and urban services platform. It aims to tackle the significant funding gap faced by female-led startups. According to Crunchbase, only 2.3% of venture capital funding goes to women-led startups.

Substantial Prizes and Expert Support for Winners

The award offers significant non-equity cash prizes to the top founders. The first-place winner will receive a $50,000 grant. Second and third places will be awarded $20,000 and $15,000 respectively.

Beyond funding, winners gain access to invaluable mentorship. Shortlisted participants will receive guidance from inDrive’s executives and industry experts. This support network is designed to help scale their innovative solutions.

Eligibility Focuses on Early-Stage, Women-Led Innovation

The award targets women who are founders or co-founders of tech startups. Their company must be less than five years old and have a working product prototype. Total funding raised must not exceed $6 million, including seed rounds.

The competition specifically focuses on founders from emerging markets. This initiative seeks to unlock potential in traditionally underserved tech communities. It provides a platform for global visibility and growth.

The Aurora Tech Award 2025 is a critical initiative for leveling the playing field in tech. It provides essential funding and recognition for women building the future.

Info at your fingertips

Who can apply for the Aurora Tech Award?

The award is for women who are founders or co-founders of a tech startup. The startup must be under five years old and based in an emerging market. Applicants must have a functional prototype and less than $6 million in total funding.

What are the key dates for the 2025 award?

The application window is currently open. All submissions must be completed by the final deadline on November 12, 2025. Winners are typically announced in the first quarter of the following year.

What do winners receive besides prize money?

Winners and shortlisted participants gain access to mentorship from industry leaders. They also receive valuable media exposure to help grow their brand. This network can be crucial for securing future investment.

How does this award address gender inequality in tech?

It directly counteracts the massive funding gap highlighted by data from Crunchbase. By providing grants and visibility, it empowers female founders to scale their businesses. The award also creates a powerful community of role models.

Is the prize money considered a grant or an investment?

The cash prize is a non-equity grant. Winners receive the funding without giving up any ownership stake in their company. This allows founders to retain full control of their venture.