Applications are now open for the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026, a global competition recognizing women social entrepreneurs who are advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The challenge highlights women leaders who are building enterprises aligned with the SDGs and inspiring communities to help create the world we want by 2030. If you are leading an established organization with measurable impact and are ready to showcase your work on a global stage, this opportunity may be worth exploring.
What Is the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge?
The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge is a global competition designed specifically for women entrepreneurs whose businesses or organizations contribute to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Selected awardees participate in a high-impact experience that includes:
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Pitch workshops
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Tailored trainings from leading and supporting partners
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Curated networking opportunities with global leaders in business, policy, and philanthropy
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Participation in the WE Empower Pitch Challenge
The program concludes with a live pitch event hosted by philanthropist, fashion icon, and Vital Voices Board Member Diane von Furstenberg at her New York studio. During this event, awardees present their enterprises to a distinguished panel of judges for a chance to receive grant funding.
Event Dates & Travel Requirements
Awardees will be notified by mid-July 2026.
Selected participants are expected to travel during one of the following possible timeframes:
Primary Option:
New York City during Climate Week and the 81st UN General Assembly
September 19–26, 2026
Alternate Option (under consideration):
Geneva (the UN’s second headquarters)
June 14–20, 2026
Due to evolving U.S. visa restrictions, the organizing team is considering Geneva as an alternate location. Applicants must be prepared and willing to travel to either location during either timeframe.
In addition to the in-person convening, participants must also take part in virtual programming from August through October 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying to the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026, applicants must ensure they meet all of the following requirements:
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Identify as a woman entrepreneur
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Lead decision-making within their entity
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Have operated their business or organization for at least three years as of August 1, 2026
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Employ at least three full-time employees or full-time equivalents
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Generate a minimum of USD $75,000 in annual revenue
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For nonprofit organizations, revenue may include donations, grants, and funds raised through various fundraising activities
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Be professionally proficient in English
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Be at least 21 years old by August 1, 2026
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Be available to travel to New York City and participate in all events from September 19–26, 2026
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Participate in virtual programming from August through October 2026
Applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria and confirm they meet every requirement before starting the application.
Application Timeline
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Opening Date: 12:00 AM United States Eastern Time on Monday, January 26, 2026
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Deadline: 11:59 PM United States Eastern Time on Sunday, March 8, 2026
Late submissions are not indicated as being accepted, so applicants are encouraged to plan accordingly.
Why Consider Applying?
The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge offers more than recognition. It provides a platform for women entrepreneurs to present their enterprises to influential audiences while gaining access to targeted workshops, trainings, and networking opportunities.
The combination of pitch preparation, exposure to global leaders, and the opportunity to compete for grant funding makes this challenge particularly relevant for women entrepreneurs ready to scale their impact.
For founders leading mission-driven enterprises aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, this competition offers visibility at a global level during major international gatherings.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official WE Empower UN SDG Challenge application platform.
Before beginning the process, applicants should:
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Review all eligibility criteria carefully
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Confirm availability for travel and virtual programming
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Prepare to provide required information about their enterprise
If you have questions or want to apply, visit the official website or contact the program team directly.
Looking for more opportunities? Visit the Opportunities for Youth Website!
