The application window for participating in this programme is now open and will close on Friday 12 June 2026.
FinTech BizNews Service
Mumbai, 4 May 2026: Standard Chartered (the “Bank”) and LIFTWOMEN® today announced the
expansion of the Bank’s flagship Standard Chartered Women’s International Network (SC
WIN) Now & Next Programme into India and the Greater Bay Area (GBA). This builds on the
success of last year’s inaugural edition in Hong Kong and underscores the Bank’s commitment to
driving global connectivity and supporting women entrepreneurs across major international
markets.
The 2026 SC WIN Now & Next Programme leverages the Bank’s global SC WIN network,
resources, and deep expertise in supporting women entrepreneurs. It combines a pitch format
with a structured capability-building programme designed to accelerate growth at different stages
of business development. The application window for participating in this programme is now open
and will close on Friday 12 June 2026.
This expansion comes amid a significant shift in the global entrepreneurial landscape, with women
founders accounting for a growing proportion of new businesses globally. As many of these
enterprises lead in areas such as digital trade and sustainable technology, the programme offers
a platform for female founders to navigate the complexities of international expansion and cross-
border logistics, helping women-led SMEs capture growth opportunities. Specific to India, more
than 3.07 crore women-led enterprises have been registered on the government’s Udyam
platform as of February 28, 2026.
Xie Wen, Global Head, SME Banking, Standard Chartered, said, “We are delighted to expand
our flagship SC WIN Now & Next programme into India and the Greater Bay Area, reinforcing our
long-term commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and building a more inclusive SME
ecosystem. Through SC WIN, we bring together capability building, access to financing and cross-
border connectivity, to empower women-led businesses to scale with confidence and play a
bigger role in driving sustainable growth.”
Aditya Mandloi, MD & Head, Wealth and Retail Banking, India & South Asia, Standard
Chartered said, “Our SME Banking business is a strategic priority for Standard Chartered
globally and a key growth engine for our India franchise. We have one of the largest SME
footprints across foreign banks in India. As SME formation and entrepreneurship continue to
accelerate, there is a clear need to support business owners holistically, addressing both their
business and personal wealth needs. By addressing these integrated needs, we play a
meaningful role in fostering a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable economy. This aligns with
our vision to deliver comprehensive banking solutions that empower women entrepreneurs to
thrive in an increasingly dynamic market. By offering tailored support and resources, we are
committed to helping women-led SMEs achieve long-term success and contribute to broader
economic prosperity in India and beyond. SC WIN Now & Next is one of the key initiatives that we
are launching this year to support this meaningful ambition.”
The programme champions women leaders through a rigorous and engaging programme that
builds essential business skills, supports business scaling, and connects participants to a powerful
ecosystem of mentors, peers and partners. Entrepreneurs gain market-relevant insights, access
to cross-border platforms, and opportunities to scale internationally.
The programme will select 10 ambitious women-led businesses each from India and the GBA to
participate in an exclusive 12-week SC WIN Global Accelerator Programme, with awards
recognising outstanding women-led businesses across the participating markets. As part of this
initiative, LiftWomen will run the accelerator programme by facilitating the sessions, contributing
content, speakers and mentors.
Irene Tsang, Founder and CEO, LiftWomen®, said, “We’re excited and proud to partner with
Standard Chartered for the second year, now expanding into India and the GBA. LIFTWOMEN’s
mission aligns perfectly with Standard Chartered’s commitment to supporting women
entrepreneurs. By combining our strengths, we are making a meaningful impact. We look forward
to building on this strong momentum together this year.”
Last year, Lamia Sreya Rahman, Co-Founder and COO of Vidi Labs (Seekr) was awarded
Venture of the Year for her AI-powered wearable device developed in close collaboration with and
for the visually impaired community. Four additional entrepreneurs received category awards
recognising innovation, international ambition, social impact, and community support. Award
recipients continue to receive dedicated mentorship and regional networking opportunities through
the SC WIN community.
With the Now & Next Programme as its flagship initiative, SC WIN is the Bank’s global programme
supporting women-led SMEs with access to financing, expertise and global networks, helping
them scale beyond their home markets. Since its launch in 2022, SC WIN has grown into a
network of more than 4,500 women-owned businesses across seven markets. With over USD540
million in financing extended to date, it is on track to deliver on its USD1 billion financing
commitment by 2028.
SC WIN Now & Next Programme – Overview:
Eligibility Women entrepreneurs and business owners (including startups
and SMEs seeking expansion)
Entry Criteria for India
≥ 51% shareholdings owned by women OR ≥ 50% shareholdings
owned by a woman founder
Incorporated in India with valid Business Registration (BR)
The company must have been established for at least two years
in India
Application Period
Tuesday, 28 April 2026 – Friday, 12 June 2026
Selection Process
The organiser will shortlist at least 30 applications, from which 10
finalists will be selected through online interviews to participate in the SC
WIN Global Accelerator Programme and final pitch.
Awards Best SC WIN Business Award
Best Business for Good Award
Best International Business Award
Best Next Gen Business Award
Professional Support
Each finalist will receive dedicated mentorship and professional
guidance
Regional Exposure: Spotlight across Standard Chartered’s global
social and business channels
Strategic Networking: Access to markets, clients, and suppliers
across the Standard Chartered network
Finalists will have the opportunity to join the SC WIN Community,
expanding business connections and collaboration opportunities
