The Aurora Tech Award, an initiative powered by inDrive is set to recognise women IT entrepreneurs who have made profound and positive impact on world development through their tech startups.
Justifying the need for the award, the Executive Director of Aurora Tech Award, Ekaterina Smirnova said it is to break down gender stereotypes in IT, give a boost to women in the IT sector, recognise women’s achievements in IT entrepreneurship and financially support their projects through cash prizes.
“Remaining true to its mission to fight for justice and equity, inDrive has created this award to give women the opportunity to develop and maximise their potential in IT professions. Despite women’s barriers and challenges, they are creating unique IT projects, such as driverless vehicles. They are making a difference in various fields of study, such as medicine and science.
“It’s important for us to give women the opportunity to reach their maximum potential in the IT industry. Gender prejudices are gradually becoming a thing of the past but persist in today’s modern world. Limiting a person’s opportunities just because of their gender is unfair. Last years’ experience showed us how many interesting and diverse projects that benefit communities around the world were initiated by women. We hope that this year we will see even more of them,” it added.
The statement further noted that the entries would go through rigorous assessment from a distinguished panel of judges drawn from prominent female IT entrepreneurs, the winners of last year’s Aurora Tech Award, and key industry experts.
The grand prize winner would go home with $30,000, while the first and second runner-ups would receive $20,000 and $10,000, respectively. Winners will emerge from each category with the prize to be awarded to contestants from any participating country. In addition to the rewards, the entrepreneurs will gain access to inDrive’s mentorship programme.
To be eligible to participate, an applicant must be a founder or co-founder of a startup running for five years. Participants must present their achievements and startup success in a presentation, including a comprehensive explanation of how winning the award will affect the life of the applicant, her company, or a particular community.