In a region where the startup scene is booming, Elissa Freiha stands out — not just for what she’s built, but who she’s built it for. As the founder of Womena and Womentum, Elissa has become a leading voice for women-led innovation in Dubai and across the Middle East.
She started as a media entrepreneur. But her real impact began when she turned investor and ecosystem builder — creating platforms that don’t just fund startups, but nurture the people behind them.
Elissa launched Womena with one goal in mind: to bring more women into the world of entrepreneurship and venture capital. What started as a content-first platform evolved into a full-fledged impact engine — combining media, community, and funding access for underrepresented founders.
She didn’t stop there. With Womentum, she launched a dedicated accelerator focused entirely on women-led startups. The program combines mentorship, market exposure, and access to investors — everything early-stage founders typically lack.
Elissa Freiha isn’t just an advocate — she’s a builder. Womena and Womentum have actively supported dozens of startups with female founders, proving that talent exists — it just needs the right stage.
From investor roadshows to regional pitch days, her platforms ensure women-led startups are not just heard but funded. And in an ecosystem where representation still lags, that visibility is game-changing.
Elissa focuses on real outcomes — revenue growth, job creation, and long-term sustainability. Her programs don’t just end with demo days — they create lasting founder networks and support systems.
As a Board Member at the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, Elissa brings her grassroots experience into policy-level discussions. She advocates for inclusive tech growth and supports regulatory frameworks that empower diverse founders.
This role gives her a rare edge — she’s equally comfortable talking with early-stage founders and decision-makers shaping Dubai’s digital future.
Dubai’s startup scene is fast, competitive, and full of opportunity. But without intentional support, women risk being left out of the conversation. Elissa’s work flips that script — giving female founders the funding, mentorship, and exposure they need to succeed.
She’s not just adding diversity for the sake of it. She’s proving that inclusive ecosystems lead to stronger, smarter, and more sustainable businesses.
Who is Elissa Freiha?
Elissa Freiha is a media entrepreneur turned impact investor, known for founding Womena and Womentum — platforms supporting women-led startups in the Middle East.
What is Womena?
Womena began as a media company and evolved into a platform that supports female entrepreneurs through content, events, and investor connections.
What is Womentum?
Womentum is an accelerator program built specifically for women-led startups, offering mentorship, funding access, and regional exposure.
What is Elissa’s role at the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy?
As a board member, Elissa helps shape Dubai’s tech ecosystem with a focus on inclusive growth and policy development.
Why is Elissa Freiha important for MENA’s startup scene?
She’s closing the gap in access and funding for women founders, proving that diverse startups build better, more resilient businesses.
