UBS has announced the launch of its Female Founder Award 2024, marking the fourth consecutive year of its commitment to promoting gender diversity in the fintech and enterprise technology sectors. This award recognizes female founders, co-founders, and C-level executives who are making significant contributions to innovation and leadership within their industries. The initiative is part of UBS’s broader effort to foster diversity and inclusivity in the tech world.
Encouraging Female Leadership in Technology
The UBS Female Founder Award is aimed at women who are breaking new ground in fintech and enterprise tech. Emma Wheeler, Head of Women’s Wealth at UBS Global Wealth Management, emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting female entrepreneurs. “We are committed to helping female founders break through the barriers that still exist in today’s entrepreneurial landscape,” said Wheeler. She added that the award offers resources and opportunities to help these entrepreneurs grow their businesses.
The application and nomination process for the 2024 award is open until October 20. The winner and a “Rising Star” will be announced during the award ceremony scheduled for December 13. The winner will receive a prize of USD 10,000 and will also gain access to a mentorship program designed to help them scale their businesses and access new opportunities.
Expanded Opportunities for Finalists
Finalists in the UBS Female Founder Award will have the opportunity to participate in Project Female Founder 2025, a global mentorship and investor-readiness program aimed at early-stage founders. This year-long initiative will connect participants with key industry players, including venture capitalists, providing them with essential tools to grow their companies. UBS is collaborating with a range of organizations, including Anthemis, Tenity, European Women in VC, Epic Angels, and AMAM Ventures, to ensure finalists have access to a global network of investors and mentors.
Andrea Fritschi, Managing Partner at Tenity, highlighted the importance of supporting female founders, noting that this initiative is not just about promoting diversity but also about unlocking new business potential. “We’re thrilled to be part of this initiative, offering guidance and resources to help these women scale their businesses globally,” said Fritschi.
New Partners for 2024
For the first time, UBS has partnered with external organizations from the venture capital and investment communities. These partners will serve on the jury, offering a diverse range of perspectives and expertise. Their involvement underscores the importance of integrating female leadership into broader investment and technology ecosystems, providing finalists with a unique opportunity to connect with influential players in the industry.
