WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026

The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge is a global competition for women social entrepreneurs who are advancing the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and inspiring entire communities to create the world we want by 2030.

Awardees will be notified by mid‑July 2026 and will travel to New York City during Climate Week and the 81st UN General Assembly, September 19–26, 2026. They will take part in a high‑impact agenda featuring pitch workshops, tailored trainings from leading and supporting partners, and curated networking with global leaders in business, policy, and philanthropy. The week will conclude with the WE Empower Pitch Challenge, hosted by philanthropist, fashion icon, and Vital Voices Board Member Diane von Furstenberg at her New York studio, where awardees will present their enterprises to a distinguished panel of judges for a chance to win grant funding. Due to evolving U.S. visa restrictions, the team is also considering convening the 2026 WE Empower Challenge in Geneva—the UN’s second headquarters—during the week of June 14–20 as an alternate option. Applicants should be prepared and willing to travel to either location during either timeframe.

Please review the eligibility criteria below and ensure you meet ALL criteria before beginning an application.

• You must identify as a woman entrepreneur.
• You must lead decision-making within your entity.
• Your business or organization must have been in operation for at least three years as of August 1, 2026.
• You must employ at least three full-time employees or full-time equivalents.
• Your business or organization must generate a minimum of USD $75,000 in annual revenue. For nonprofit organizations, revenue may comprise donations, grants, and funds raised through various fundraising activities.
• You must be professionally proficient in English.
• You must be at least 21 years old by August 1, 2026.
• You must be available to travel to New York City, NY, and participate in all events from Saturday, September 19 – September 26, 2026, and participate in virtual programming from August through October 2026.