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WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026

Global competition for women entrepreneurs advancing UN SDGs. 5 regional awardees selected for Climate Week NYC + 81st UN General Assembly (Sept 19-26, 2026), with grant funding via pitch competition.

English, French, Portuguese or Arabic, machine translated, with the original kept beside it.
Key Information
Organisation
ASU Global Futures Laboratory & Vital Voices
Location
Global (incl. Africa)
Status
Awarded
Application Deadline
Mar 8, 2026
Program Type
Competition
Cohort
2026 Cohort
Language
English
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About this Program

The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge is the first global competition recognising women entrepreneurs advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Launched at the 2018 UN General Assembly by the UN Secretary-General and Council of Women World Leaders, co-convened by ASU Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory and Vital Voices. Five regional awardees selected for Climate Week NYC and the 81st UN General Assembly (September 19-26, 2026). Programme includes pitch workshops, training, networking, and a final pitch competition hosted by Diane von Furstenberg in NYC for grant funding. Alternate option in Geneva (June 14-20, 2026) being considered due to US visa restrictions.

Benefits & What You Get

Recognition as regional awardee, fully sponsored trip to NYC for Climate Week and UN General Assembly (Sept 19-26, 2026) or Geneva alternate, pitch workshops, tailored trainings from leading partners, networking with global business/policy/philanthropy leaders, grant funding via pitch competition.

Eligibility

Identify as woman entrepreneur, lead decision-making, business operating 3+ years as of August 1, 2026, employ 3+ FTEs, generate USD 75,000+ annual revenue (or equivalent for nonprofits), English proficient, 21+ years old by August 1, 2026.

Equity Terms

Zero Equity (Grant)