The Funded WE Empower UN SDG Challenge is a global competition launched by the United Nations and WE Empower, a program of Vital Voices Global Partnership. The challenge aims to recognize and support women entrepreneurs who are advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through their businesses.
Launched by the UN Secretary General, President of the World Bank and the Council of Women World Leaders at the UN General Assembly in 2018, the WE (women entrepreneurs) Empower UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Challenge is the first-of-its-kind global competition for women social entrepreneurs who are advancing the UN SDGs and inspiring entire communities to create the world we want by 2030.
The opportunity recognizes their innovative work and provides Awardees with capacity-building training sessions and opportunities to connect with an unparalleled global network to advance their enterprises. This program elevates and showcases the valuable contribution women social entrepreneurs and business leaders can make toward the SDGs and solving the world’s greatest challenges.
In 2024, the WE Empower Challenge Awardees will participate in events surrounding the 79th UN General Assembly as well as connect with renowned business experts from around the world.
The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge seeks to identify women-owned or women-led businesses that are making significant contributions to one or more of the 17 SDGs, which address critical global issues such as poverty, gender equality, climate action, and sustainable development. The challenge emphasizes the role of women entrepreneurs as agents of change and innovation in driving progress towards the SDGs.
Participants in the challenge have the opportunity to showcase their businesses and initiatives on a global stage, gain exposure to investors, mentors, and potential partners, and access resources and support to scale their impact. The challenge also provides a platform for networking and collaboration among women entrepreneurs, enabling them to share best practices, learn from each other, and amplify their collective voice.
The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge selects finalists through a competitive application process, with criteria including the business’s alignment with the SDGs, its potential for impact and scalability, and the leadership and innovation demonstrated by the entrepreneur. Finalists participate in a series of events and activities, including pitch competitions, workshops, and mentorship sessions, culminating in the selection of winners who receive funding, recognition, and support to further their work.
The Funded WE Empower UN SDG Challenge plays a crucial role in elevating the visibility and impact of women entrepreneurs who are driving positive change in their communities and beyond. By empowering women to leverage their businesses as vehicles for sustainable development, the challenge contributes to the achievement of the SDGs and the advancement of gender equality and economic empowerment worldwide.
The WE Empower Challenge is co-convened by ASU Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory and Vital Voices Global Partnership
Eligibility Requirements For The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge
- You must identify as a woman entrepreneur.
- You must have lead decision-making ability within your entity.
- Your business or organization must have been in operation for at least three years as of August 1, 2024.
- You must employ at least three full-time employees or full-time equivalents.
- Your business or organization must generate a minimum of $75,000 USD 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, 2024.
- You must be available to travel to New York, NY, and participate in all events from September 22 – September 29, 2024, and if necessary, able to participate in a virtual program from August through December 2024.
Selection Criteria
- The successful Awardees will be notified by July 2024 and will receive the opportunity to travel to New York City, New York (NY) during the UN Global Goals/Climate Week September 22 – 27, 2024 to participate in a series of tailored trainings contributed by leading and supporting partners and engage in high-profile events with UN Officials.
Application Deadline: Friday, April 12, 2024.
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