De Beers Group Trailblazer Programme Opens Applications for Women Tech Founders in Southern Africa. Women-led tech startups in Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa now have the opportunity to join the 2025/26 De Beers Group Trailblazer programme—an 8-month hybrid accelerator aimed at empowering female entrepreneurs focused on sustainability and innovation.
Launched in collaboration with WomHub, the initiative seeks to support women founders in the science, technology, engineering, manufacturing, and mining (STEM) sectors, particularly those with businesses contributing to greener futures. Selected participants will receive financial coaching, personalized mentorship, and access to a curated learning experience.
Eligible applicants must be founders or co-founders of businesses operating in the STEM space and registered in one of the three participating countries. While businesses do not need to be revenue-generating, they must demonstrate innovation with an emphasis on waste reduction, circular economy models, clean energy, biodiversity conservation, or nature-based solutions.
There is no upper age limit for applicants, and candidates must be at least 18 years old. Importantly, they must be able to commit to the programme’s full duration, which runs from May 2025 through December 2025.
The Trailblazer programme reinforces De Beers Group’s commitment to advancing gender equity and sustainability in the business ecosystem. By nurturing women entrepreneurs in Southern Africa, the initiative aims to foster long-term economic inclusion and environmental resilience.