Applications open for 2026 WE Empower UN SDG challenge for women entrepreneurs

Applications are now open for the 2026 WE Empower UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Challenge, a global initiative recognising women entrepreneurs whose businesses advance the UN’s SDGs.

Launched at the UN General Assembly in 2018 by the UN Secretary-General, the President of the World Bank, and the Council of Women World Leaders, the programme is the first global competition dedicated to women-led enterprises that combine innovation, impact and sustainability.

The application deadline is March 8, 2026.

Global Recognition and High-Level Engagement

In 2026, five regional awardees will be selected, representing Asia Pacific; Europe and North America; Latin America and the Caribbean; the Middle East and North Africa; and Sub-Saharan Africa. The winners will participate in events during Climate Week NYC and the 81st UN General Assembly, from September 19 to 26, 2026.

Awardees will engage in pitch workshops, tailored trainings from leading partners, and curated networking with global leaders in business, policy, and philanthropy.

The week will culminate in a pitch competition hosted by fashion designer, philanthropist, and Vital Voices Board Member Diane von Furstenberg, where participants will present their enterprises to a distinguished panel of judges for the chance to secure grant funding.

Who Can Apply

The challenge is open to women entrepreneurs whose businesses or organisations have operated for at least three years and demonstrate measurable impact aligned with the SDGs.

Applicants must be at least 21 years old by August 1, 2026, identify as women entrepreneurs, and lead decision-making within their entity.

Businesses must employ at least 3 full-time staff or equivalents and generate at least USD 75,000 in annual revenue.

Non-profits may meet the revenue threshold through donations, grants, or other fundraising activities. Professional proficiency in English is required, and finalists will need to provide audited financial records.

Application Process and Requirements

Applicants must provide basic information about themselves and their business, including the region that best reflects their primary country of operation.

They will also describe how their work contributes to the SDGs, outline their vision for a sustainable future, and explain how they promote gender equality within their organisation and broader community.

Additional application requirements include security-related questions, social media details if applicable, agreement to the contest’s terms and conditions, and submission of a two-minute video according to the application guidelines.

Organisers emphasise that the challenge comes at a critical time, as women entrepreneurs continue to face barriers to funding, visibility, and leadership despite their growing role in addressing climate change, inequality, and inclusive economic growth.

“The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge provides a global platform to highlight women-led solutions while connecting entrepreneurs to networks where their ideas can influence policy, investment, and partnerships,” the organisers said.

Through this programme, women entrepreneurs have an opportunity not only to gain recognition but also to access mentorship, training, and funding that can scale their impact.

By combining innovation, leadership, and sustainable business practices, awardees are expected to inspire communities to build a more sustainable and equitable world by 2030.