Apple has launched an app development program with women founders–specifically women of color in mind.
Although the company has previously held workshops, talks, and accelerators, this is the first program focused on women-founded companies.
Starting in January, Women will be able to receive support through Apple’s new Entrepreneur Camp.
The two-week camp will offer one-on-one coding assistance from Apple engineers plus design, technology, and App Store marketing sessions.
Inclusive of all who identify as women, participation requires the company to be founded, co-founded or led by women. Companies can also have at least one woman on the development team.
“We wanted to focus on women who already have an app-driven business, and we don’t require them to have an iOS app,” Apple Senior Director of Worldwide Developer Marketing Esther Hare told TechCrunch. “This isn’t an incubator where you come with a good idea and we help you think through it. It’s about already having a good idea, maybe they want to incorporate machine learning or augmented reality, or use some of Apple’s other technologies.”
Apple also has Android-only companies covered by informing them about their ecosystem and providing assistance from creators.
Not only are Android users invited, but Apple also encourages at least three team members to attend the lab.
“Even if they’re not the most advanced, they get to come to the workshop to get support, network and skill development,” Hare said.
The program–set to launch in January–aims to keep women in the workforce while assisting in providing more leadership roles as well.
