WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 – Applications Now Open

Application Deadline: 8 March, 2026

About the Challenge

Applications are Now Open for WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026. The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2026 stands as a pioneering global competition dedicated to spotlighting and empowering women social entrepreneurs whose businesses or organizations are making measurable progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Launched at the UN General Assembly in 2018 and co-convened by the ASU Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory and Vital Voices Global Partnership, this initiative celebrates women leaders whose innovations actively advance sustainable, equitable, and inclusive development across the world.

Key Dates

• Application Period: Opens 12:00 AM US Eastern Time, 26 January 2026 – Closes 11:59 PM US Eastern Time, 8 March 2026
• Notification to Awardees: Mid-July 2026
• In-Person Events: 19–26 September 2026 during Climate Week NYC and the 81st UN General Assembly (alternate Geneva dates are under consideration)

Eligibility Criteria

The Challenge is ideally suited for women leaders and founders of mission-driven enterprises who meet the following requirements:

• Identify as a woman entrepreneur
• Lead decision-making within their business or organization
• Have operated their enterprise for at least 3 years as of 1 August 2026
• Employ a minimum of 3 full-time staff or equivalent positions
• Generate at least USD 75,000 in annual revenue (for nonprofits, income may include grants and funds)
• Possess professional proficiency in English
•  Be at least 21 years old by 1 August 2026

What You Will Gain

Selected awardees will receive:

• Global recognition as leaders advancing the Sustainable Development Goals
• Capacity-building training, pitch workshops, and leadership development opportunities
• Curated networking with global leaders from business, policy, and philanthropic sectors
• Pitch challenge opportunity before distinguished judges, with potential for grant funding and international exposure
• Participation in both virtual programming (August–October 2026) and in-person events during high-profile UN and climate gatherings

Application Requirements

The online application requires the following information:

• Business or organization details and mission statement
• Explanation of how your work aligns with one or more UN Sustainable Development Goals
• Description of your impact and vision for sustainable change
• A 2-minute video outlining your enterprise and its contribution to the SDGs

Note: The quality of your insights matters more than video production value. Authenticity and clarity are prioritized over professional editing.

To submit your application click here