Shecluded Receives Equity-Free Grant from Google for Startups
Leading Nigerian fintech company, Shecluded, has recently been awarded an equity-free grant funding by Google for Startups through the Black Founders Fund Africa. This significant funding will empower Shecluded to enhance its technology-enabled platform specifically designed for women, aiming to expand access to financial services and business resources across Africa.
Enhancing Technology and Operations
The grant will primarily be utilized to develop Shecluded’s mobile application, which is set to revolutionize the way the company processes loan applications and service requests. With the capacity to handle thousands of applications simultaneously, this technological upgrade is crucial for meeting the growing demand for financial services among women. Additionally, the funding will facilitate the establishment of operations in key regions throughout Nigeria and West Africa, allowing Shecluded to broaden its reach and impact.
A Commitment to Women’s Financial Empowerment
Founded in 2019 by Ifeoma Uddoh, Shecluded has already made significant strides in empowering women financially. To date, the company has disbursed over $1 million in growth loans and provided access to business development support for more than 17,500 women. These services include wealth advisory, health insurance, credit education, and financial literacy resources. Shecluded’s mission is clear: to nurture and enable women for financial growth and business success.
Vision for the Future
Ifeoma Uddoh, the Founder and CEO of Shecluded, expressed her enthusiasm about the grant, stating, “Our mission is to put more money in women’s hands, and adopting more advanced technology will allow us to reach more women.” She emphasized the urgent need for women to access key financial growth services easily. The advanced technology platform will significantly enhance Shecluded’s ability to provide essential resources to women across various regions.
Participation in Global Initiatives
Shecluded has actively participated in several global programs aimed at addressing inequalities and promoting inclusive finance for women. Notable initiatives include the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, Gender-inclusive economy Nasdaq, NASDAQ Milestone Makers (Spring 2021), and the US Consulate Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE 2021). These programs have not only provided valuable insights but also fostered a community focused on empowering women in the financial sector.
About Shecluded
Shecluded stands as the leading financial service and business resource company for women in Africa. The company’s mission is to facilitate financial freedom for women by offering simplified access to a variety of financial growth services. These services encompass loans, wealth advisory, goal-based savings, business support, health insurance, and more. For more information, visit Shecluded’s website or follow them on Instagram and Twitter at @shecluded.
About Black Founders Fund
The Black Founders Fund is a Google for Startups program dedicated to providing funding to startups in Africa. This initiative offers grants, Google platform credits, and technical support to early-stage startups, helping them grow and create meaningful impacts in their communities. The fund aims to bridge the existing fundraising gap for startup founders in Africa’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.
A Bright Future Ahead
With this grant from Google for Startups, Shecluded is poised to make a transformative impact on the financial landscape for women in Africa. By leveraging technology and expanding its operations, Shecluded is set to empower even more women, fostering a future where financial independence and business success are within reach for all.