SANAD ElevateHer Program is a women-focused accelerator supporting early- and growth-stage entrepreneurs in MENA and Sub-Saharan Africa. The program helps female founders unlock financial access, strengthen investment readiness, and scale impact-driven businesses. Through training, tools, and practical mentorship, SANAD ElevateHer Program fosters measurable socioeconomic change and drives gender-inclusive innovation.
Backed by Seedstars’ global expertise in emerging markets and powered by SMART™ Methodology and SIGMA™ tool, SANAD ElevateHer Program provides the tools, networks, and resources women entrepreneurs need to thrive and grow.
Who Can Join the Program?
Women-led startups or startups with a strong gender lens (women in ownership/leadership, women as core customers, or women-forward employment practices).
Stage:
Early to growth stage (min. prototype/MVP; traction/revenue is a plus).
Sectors:
Impact-driven solutions across the real and digital economy, including finance, agriculture/food systems, climate/sustainability, and adjacent sectors that enhance livelihoods, resilience, and inclusion.
Model:
For-profit, tech-enabled (traditional businesses with a strong digital edge are eligible).
Business Model
Revenue threshold: ≤ $1M USD annual revenue.
Geography:
Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, Iraq, Yemen, Palestinian Territories, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Ghana, and Senegal.
Impact alignment:
Either 51% women-owned or meets 2X criteria in one or more areas (ownership, leadership, employment, customers/beneficiaries, or support for women entrepreneurs).