HKD 1 Million in Grants: Inside the SC WIN Now & Next Challenge Launch
- Apr 10
- 5 min read
On 6 March 2025, Hong Kong’s entrepreneurial spirit was on full display as Standard Chartered Hong Kong, in partnership with LIFTWOMEN®, launched the “SC WIN Now & Next Challenge”.
(Pictured Left to Right: Carla, Charlene, Myriam, Manisha, Josephine, Aileen, Sarah and Jessica)
I had the privilege of attending this landmark event as a VIP alongside my business partner Elisabetta Sorrentino, accompanied by ten exceptional members of our network!
This event wasn’t just a launch—it was a celebration of resilience, innovation, and the boundless potential of women entrepreneurs. From opening remarks by influential leaders to inspiring stories of success, the morning was a testament to the transformative power of collaboration and support.
A Vision for Growth and Empowerment
The “SC WIN Now & Next Challenge” is a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower women entrepreneurs by pro viding HKD 1 million in grants and access to an 8-week accelerator program. This initiative will help ten selected participants refine their business strategies, with five winners receiving awards across categories such as innovation, social impact, and international business.
The morning opened with a warm welcome from Mary Huen, CEO of Standard Chartered Hong Kong and Greater China. Mary’s words underscored the bank’s unwavering commitment to fostering a more inclusive business ecosystem.
"We launched SC WIN to support women entrepreneurs through tailored financial solutions and networking opportunities," Mary shared. "The addition of the ‘Now & Next Challenge’ will provide women with the exposure, tools, and mentorship to strengthen their brands and seize growth opportunities."
Her message was clear: women entrepreneurs are the driving force behind innovation and economic advancement, and they deserve the resources and support to thrive.
Highlights from the Panel Discussion
(From L-R: Xie Wen, Global Head of SME Banking, Standard Chartered, Irene Tsang, Founder and CEO of LIFTWOMEN and Elsa How, Founder and CEO of BlueOnion)
The panel explored the challenges women face in scaling their businesses. Irene Tsang emphasized the persistent funding gap that women entrepreneurs encounter.
"Many women-led startups are perceived as too early or pre-revenue, making it difficult to secure funding," Irene explained. "This is why initiatives like SC WIN are so vital—they provide women with the resources and confidence to succeed."
Elsa How shared her personal journey as a serial entrepreneur, offering advice on how women can overcome self-doubt and focus on their strengths. She urged women to innovate boldly, identifying gaps in the market and creating unique solutions.
Xie Wen highlighted the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in building a thriving business ecosystem. She introduced the SC WIN Community Platform, a digital hub designed to connect entrepreneurs with mentors, global markets, and resources.
"Our goal is to create an ecosystem that fosters cross-industry and cross-gender collaboration," Xie said. "We’re committed to providing USD 1 billion in financing to women entrepreneurs globally by 2028."
The “Now & Next Challenge”
Over the next few months, the “SC WIN Now & Next Challenge” will empower ten finalists through the LiftHER Global Accelerator Programme. This intensive program will provide mentorship, professional guidance, and access to global networks.
The journey will culminate in a pitch competition in August, where five winners will receive the following awards:
Grand Prize – HKD 500,000
Innovative Award – HKD 100,000
Best Social Impact/ESG Award – HKD 100,000
Most International Business Award – HKD 100,000
People’s Choice Award – HKD 100,000
Beyond the cash prizes, finalists will benefit from marketing support, visibility, and opportunities to join the SC WIN Community, connecting them with a global network of entrepreneurs and industry leaders.
My Takeaways
As I sat among the audience, surrounded by inspiring women and changemakers, I couldn’t help but feel a renewed sense of purpose. This event wasn’t just about celebrating women entrepreneurs—it was about equipping them with the resources, knowledge, and connections to thrive.
The words of Mary Huen continue to resonate with me:
"Our ambition extends beyond empowering women entrepreneurs—we strive to create a truly inclusive ecosystem that drives economic growth for all."
This event reaffirmed why initiatives like SC WIN matter. They provide a platform for women to rise, not just as entrepreneurs, but as leaders shaping the future of business.
To members who are entrepreneurs in Hong Kong: this is your time. The “SC WIN Now & Next Challenge” is your chance to refine your vision, expand your network, and take your business to new heights.
Applications are open until 24 April 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a movement that is redefining the future of entrepreneurship!
For more details, visit sc.com/hk/scwin.
Together, let’s continue to lift each other up, celebrate each other’s successes, and create a brighter, more inclusive future.
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“SC WIN Now & Next Challenge” – Programme Overview:
Eligibility | Women entrepreneurs and business owners (including startups and SMEs seeking expansion) |
Entry Criteria |
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Application Period | From today until 24 April, 2025 (7 weeks) |
Selection Criteria | The organiser will shortlist 20 women-led businesses or female entrepreneurs, from which 10 finalists will be selected through online interviews to participate in the final competition and the 8- week LiftHER Global Accelerator Programme |
Awards | Grand Prize – HKD 500,000 Innovative Award – HKD 100,000 Best Social Impact/ESG Award – HKD 100,000 Most International Business Award – HKD 100,000 People’s Choice Award – HKD 100,000 |
Professional Support | Each finalist will receive dedicated mentorship and professional guidance.
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All Standard Chartered "SC WIN Now & Next Challenge" activities are subject to terms and conditions. For details, please visit sc.com/hk/scwin
About Standard Chartered
We are a leading international banking group, with a presence in 53 of the world’s most dynamic markets. Our purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity, and our heritage and values are expressed in our brand promise, here for good.
Standard Chartered PLC is listed on the London and Hong Kong stock exchanges.
The history of Standard Chartered in Hong Kong dates back to 1859. It is currently one of the Hong Kong SAR’s three note-issuing banks. Standard Chartered incorporated its Hong Kong business on 1 July 2004, and now operates as a licensed bank in Hong Kong under the name of Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Standard Chartered PLC.
About LiftWomen®
LIFTWOMEN® is Asia-Pacific’s first and leading women-focused crowdfunding platform and global network, empowering women and girls to start, grow, and scale their businesses. Through accessible funding, tailored coaching, and international mentorship, we bridge the gender funding gap and create transformative opportunities for women entrepreneurs to thrive.
Our mission is to democratize access to funding, equipping women worldwide with the tools, resources, and networks to build sustainable, scalable, and profitable businesses. We envision a future where every woman and girl has equitable access to funding and opportunities to realize their entrepreneurial dreams and unlock their full potential.