Empowering Women Entrepreneurs to Create a Sustainable Future
The WE Empower UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Challenge is a groundbreaking global competition dedicated to recognizing and uplifting women social entrepreneurs who are advancing the UN SDGs. Launched in 2018 at the UN General Assembly by the UN Secretary-General, the President of the World Bank, and the Council of Women World Leaders, this initiative is the first of its kind to celebrate the transformative leadership of women in business who are building a better world.
About the Challenge
The WE Empower Challenge honors women entrepreneurs whose innovative work is not only making a positive impact on their communities but also inspiring global change. Through this platform, Awardees receive:
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Global recognition for their efforts and achievements.
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Tailored capacity-building training to enhance their impact.
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Unmatched networking opportunities with a worldwide community of leaders, experts, and influencers.
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A platform to elevate women’s voices in high-level forums including the UN General Assembly.
The WE Empower Challenge is co-convened by the ASU Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory and Vital Voices Global Partnership.
Apply for the 2025 WE Empower Challenge
Applications for the 2025 Challenge open on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 12:01 AM ET and close on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure you meet all of the following requirements:
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Identify as a woman entrepreneur.
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Hold a lead decision-making role within your enterprise.
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Your business/organization must have been in operation for at least three years by August 1, 2025.
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Employ a minimum of three full-time employees or full-time equivalents.
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Generate at least $75,000 USD in annual revenue. (For nonprofits, this includes donations, grants, and other fundraising income.)
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Be professionally proficient in English.
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Be at least 21 years old by August 1, 2025.
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Be available to travel to New York City and participate in all events from September 21–28, 2025, and, if needed, participate in a virtual program from August through December 2025.
Successful Awardees will be notified by July 2025 and invited to attend the UN Global Goals/Climate Week in New York City from September 21–28, 2025. There, they will participate in a series of exclusive trainings and high-profile engagements with UN officials and partners.
🌟 Five awardees from around the world will be selected to:
✅ Receive customized trainings and executive coaching
✅ Attend high-level events during the 80th UN General Assembly in NYC
✅ Pitch live at a special event hosted by Diane von Furstenberg—with a chance to win a grant!
✅ Connect with global leaders in business, tech, media, and venture capital
✅ Speak at high-profile panels hosted by top international organizations
A Message from a Past Awardee
“The WE Empower Challenge gave me a powerful platform to showcase my work, connect with global leaders, and grow my impact.”
— Tatiana Estevez, Founder & CEO, Permalution
Be part of a movement that empowers women to lead, innovate, and change the world.
Applications open soon—don’t miss your chance to apply!
