Deadline: March 8, 2026
The WE (Women Entrepreneurs) Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 is an inspiring global competition that celebrates and supports women entrepreneurs advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Launched at the UN General Assembly in 2018, the Challenge recognises exceptional women leaders driving sustainable, gender-equitable change through innovation and impact. The initiative is convened by the ASU Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory and Vital Voices Global Partnership, among other international collaborators.
This unique programme amplifies the voices and ventures of women entrepreneurs who are building solutions that contribute to a fairer, greener, and more inclusive world.
Key Information for the WE (Women Entrepreneurs) Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026
Application Deadline: 8 March 2026
For the 2026 edition, five regional awardees will be selected to represent their regions on the global stage. The chosen participants will attend a week-long series of events during Climate Week NYC and the 81st United Nations General Assembly (19–26 September 2026) in New York City.
Throughout the week, participants will take part in capacity-building workshops, leadership training, networking sessions with global influencers, and a final pitch competition. The programme offers valuable exposure, mentorship, and the opportunity to compete for grant funding that supports the expansion of their work.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 21 years old by 1 August 2026.
- Identify as a woman entrepreneur.
- Hold a lead decision-making position within their business or organisation.
- Have operated their enterprise for at least three years by 1 August 2026.
- Employ a minimum of three full-time staff (or equivalents).
- Achieve an annual revenue of at least USD $75,000 — for non-profit organisations, this may include grants and donations.
- Be professionally fluent in English to effectively participate in the programme.
Application Requirements
Applicants will be required to provide detailed information showcasing their entrepreneurial journey, impact, and alignment with the UN SDGs. Typical submission materials include:
- Personal and business details, including region of operation (such as Sub-Saharan Africa).
- Written responses explaining how the enterprise supports specific Sustainable Development Goals.
- Evidence of gender equality promotion within the organisation or community.
- A two-minute video pitch introducing the entrepreneur, their mission, impact, and future vision.
- Agreement to programme terms and conditions.
Benefits of the Programme
Selected awardees of the WE (Women Entrepreneurs) Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 will enjoy a wide range of professional and developmental benefits, including:
- Global recognition on a United Nations-affiliated platform.
- Tailored leadership and business workshops designed to accelerate social impact and enterprise growth.
- Exclusive networking access with top global leaders, investors, policymakers, and advocates.
- Visibility and media exposure through international platforms and events.
- The opportunity to compete for grant funding to expand their enterprise and deepen their community impact.
Programme Reach and Opportunities
The Challenge attracts hundreds of applications annually from women leaders across diverse regions — including Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Participants are expected to demonstrate strong leadership, innovative impact aligned with the SDGs, and the ability to travel to New York for the programme events. Selected entrepreneurs will represent their regions as ambassadors of progress, sustainability, and inclusion.
How to Apply for the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026
Women entrepreneurs interested in joining this transformative initiative can now submit their applications before the 8 March 2026 deadline.
👉 Read More About the Programme
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