Nigeria has emerged as a standout performer in the Aurora Tech Award (ATA) 2025, an annual global recognition celebrating female founders in emerging markets. Out of 2,018 applications from 116 countries, Nigeria topped the list with 21 nominees, solidifying its position as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Brazil, the United States, and Egypt followed closely behind. Other contributing nations include Colombia, Kenya, the United Kingdom, India, and Kazakhstan, showcasing the global reach of the awards.
The Aurora Tech Award honors bold and ambitious women building impactful startups. This year’s 120 shortlisted nominees span key industries like Healthtech, Agrotech, Edtech, and e-commerce. African nations dominated the Agrotech category, highlighting the continent’s leadership in agricultural innovation.
The initiative has attracted increasing interest from global venture capital firms, with partnerships growing from 23 to 35. This underscores the rising recognition of women-led ventures, particularly in emerging markets.
Data from the African Private Capital Association reveals that venture capital funding in Africa surged from $1.3 billion in 2020 to $6.5 billion in 2022, reflecting the growing confidence in the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Research shows that female-led startups deliver higher revenue efficiency compared to male-led ventures. Additionally, women-owned businesses are critical drivers of economic development and social progress, particularly in developing economies, where 17% of working-age women are entrepreneurs.
The Aurora Tech Award provides not only recognition but also mentorship, access to venture capital, and guidance on scaling businesses. Finalists will be announced in February 2025, with winners celebrated at a global event later in the year.
