WE Empower UN SDG Challenge 2023 for Women Social Entrepreneurs (Funded to UN Global Goals/Climate week in New York, USA)

Application Deadline: April 16, 2023

Follow us on Facebook

The WE (women entrepreneurs) Empower UN SDG Challenge is the first-of-its-kind global competition for women social entrepreneurs who are advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals and inspiring entire communities to create the world we want by 2030. The WE Empower Challenge honors innovative women leaders from around the world who are pushing the SDGs forward through sustainable business practices and inspiring others to follow suit. 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 2023, the WE Empower Challenge Awardees will participate in events surrounding the 78th UN General Assembly as well as connect with renowned business experts from around the world. Awardees will also participate in a dynamic pitch competition, hosted by fashion designer, activist and Vital Voices Board Member Diane von Furstenberg, to present their business for the opportunity to receive a $20,000 grant.

Our objectives

Honor

Honor innovative women entrepreneurs who are supporting and achieving the SDGs through sustainable business practices and inspiration for others to follow suit.

Invest

Invest in the most inspiring and transformational women entrepreneurs – providing access to seed capital, unique trainings, capacity building, a network of their peers, visibility and credibility for their work.

Ignite

Ignite awareness among a global community of stakeholders of the valuable contribution women entrepreneurs can make in contributing to the SDGs and the obstacles they still face.

Eligibility

To be eligible to enter this competition, applicants must meet all of the following criteria. Finalists will be required to provide evidence of sales (i.e. tax returns and/or audited financial records).

I am a woman entrepreneur with lead decision making ability in a business or organization

My business/organization has been in operation for more than three years

I employ at least three full time staff (or full time equivalent)

I am proficient in spoken and written English

I am at least 21 years old

I am available to travel to New York, NY and participate in all events from Monday, September 18 through Saturday, September 24 2023 (COVID-19 travel restrictions permitting) and if necessary, I am able to participate in a virtual program from August through October 2023.

Benefits

In 2023, the WE Empower Challenge Awardees will participate in events surrounding the 78th UN General Assembly as well as connect with renowned business experts from around the world.

The successful awardees will be notified by June 30, 2023 and will receive the opportunity to travel to New York City, New York (NY) during the UN Global Goals/Climate week September 16 – 23, 2023 (COVID-19 Travel restrictions permitting) to participate in a series of tailored trainings contributed by leading and supporting partners and engage in high-profile events with UN Officials.