Apply Now: Cartier Women’s Initiative 2026 – Regional Awards & Science & Technology Pioneer Award

The Cartier Women’s Initiative 2026 is now accepting applications for two major award categories: the Regional Awards and the Science & Technology Pioneer Award. This global entrepreneurship program empowers women entrepreneurs leading purpose-driven businesses across the world. If you’re a woman founder committed to social or environmental change, this is your chance to gain funding, visibility, and support on a global stage.

About the Cartier Women’s Initiative

Founded in 2006, the Cartier Women’s Initiative is an annual international entrepreneurship program that supports women-run and women-owned businesses making strong, sustainable contributions to society and the environment. Open to entrepreneurs from all countries and industries, the initiative has recognized and supported hundreds of changemakers worldwide.

Award Categories

1. 2026 Regional Awards

The Regional Awards recognize women entrepreneurs from nine regions worldwide, including Latin America, North America, Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, Middle East and North Africa, East Asia, South Asia & Central Asia, Oceania, and Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa.

Ideal for:
Businesses at early-to-growth stages from any sector that address pressing social or environmental issues in their local communities or regions.

2. 2026 Science & Technology Pioneer Award

This award category is designed for women entrepreneurs leveraging deep science or advanced technology to tackle global challenges. Businesses must be science- or tech-based and committed to delivering measurable impact.

Ideal for:
Innovative startups or companies led by women in fields such as biotech, clean energy, AI, quantum computing, sustainable agriculture, and beyond.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a woman founder (or co-founder) who owns and runs the business.
• Operate a for-profit business with a strong social or environmental mission.
• Apply to only one award category (Regional or Science & Technology). Multiple entries will result in disqualification.
• The business must be incorporated and in early or growth stage.
• Open to applicants from any country or region.
  

Key Dates

• Deadline to Apply: June 24, 2025, at 2:00 PM (Central European Summer Time – CEST)
• Initial Notifications: By August 1, 2025
• Final Results: All applicants will be notified by December 1, 2025

How to Apply

• Applications must be submitted online. More information and the submission forms via Submittable can be found on the CWI Award website.
• Create a free Submittable account to start.
• Save your draft and return anytime before the deadline.
• If you need to edit a submitted application, request edit access (processing takes up to 2 business days).
• Use updated versions of Chrome, Firefox, or Safari for the best experience.
• A PDF version of your application will be available after the deadline.

For more awards, explore the Opportunities for Youth page.