Applications are now open for the 2025 WE Empower UN SDG Challenge:Empowering Women Entrepreneurs to Drive Global Change

Application Deadline: April 11, 2025

Women entrepreneurs and social innovators across the globe now have an extraordinary opportunity to gain international recognition and expand their impact. Applications are open for the 2025 WE Empower UN SDG Challenge, a prestigious global competition designed for women business leaders advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This initiative highlights women-led enterprises that are creating meaningful change and inspiring communities toward a more sustainable future by 2030.

About the WE Empower UN SDG Challenge

The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge is an annual initiative that celebrates and supports women entrepreneurs who are making significant contributions to the SDGs through their businesses or social enterprises. Selected awardees will gain access to an exclusive leadership training program, networking opportunities, and high-profile events that amplify their impact on a global scale.

This initiative is led by Arizona State University and supported by leading organizations and partners dedicated to advancing gender equality, sustainability, and economic development worldwide.

Exciting Opportunities for Awardees

Successful applicants will be notified by July 2025 and will be granted the opportunity to participate in a transformative program in New York City during UN Global Goals/Climate Week (September 21–28, 2025). During this week, awardees will engage in:

• Tailored training sessions led by global experts and supporting partners
• High-profile networking events with UN officials, business leaders, and policymakers
• Exclusive mentorship and collaboration opportunities to scale their businesses and initiatives

Additionally, participants may also be required to take part in a virtual program running from August to December 2025 to further develop their leadership skills and impact strategies.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this prestigious challenge, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Identify as a woman entrepreneur and have decision-making authority within their entity.
• Have an operational business or organization for at least three years (as of August 1, 2024).
• Employ a minimum of three full-time employees or full-time equivalents.
• Generate an annual revenue of at least $75,000 (for nonprofits, this includes donations, grants, and fundraising revenue).
• Be at least 21 years old by August 1, 2024.
• Be professionally proficient in English.
• Be available for in-person participation in New York City (September 21–28, 2025) and for a potential virtual program from August to December 2025.

Global Representation and Impact

Women entrepreneurs from all regions of the world are encouraged to apply. Applicants must indicate their primary region of business operations from the following:

• Europe & North America
• Middle East & North Africa
• Sub-Saharan Africa
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America & the Caribbean

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Selection Considerations

Applications will be evaluated based on various factors, including:

• Commitment to fully participating in the program, either in person or virtually.
• Demonstrated impact on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and a clear vision for the future.
• Influence and leadership in advancing women’s empowerment and sustainable solutions within their communities.

For entrepreneurs managing multiple businesses or organizations, applications should focus on the enterprise that they wish to develop through the challenge if selected.

Apply Now!

This is a unique opportunity to showcase your business, gain international recognition, and be part of a global movement advancing sustainability and gender equality. Don’t miss the chance to elevate your impact and connect with influential leaders in the field.

Deadline for Applications: April 11, 2025

For full details and to submit your application, CLICK HERE