Applications for the WE Empower Un SDG challenge are now open. The WE (women entrepreneurs) Empower UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Challenge is a 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. It was introduced at the UN General Assembly in 2018 by the UN Secretary General, the President of the World Bank, and the Council of Women World Leaders.

In addition to recognizing their creative work, this opportunity offers Awardees capacity-building training sessions and chances to network with an unparalleled global community to grow their businesses. This program highlights and raises the significant contribution that female corporate leaders and social entrepreneurs can make to achieving the SDGs and addressing the most pressing global issues. The 79th UN General Assembly celebrated in 2024, and the WE Empower Challenge Awardees had the opportunity to network with international business leaders.

Important Details

• Application Deadline: April 11, 2025 (11:59 PM United States Eastern Time)
• Result Announcement Dates: July 2025
• UN Global Goals/Climate Week participation: September 21 – 28, 2025
• Funding Type: Fully funded travel and training opportunity
• Organizer: Arizona State University ASU
• Partner: Julie Ann Wrigley, Global Futures Laboratory & Vital Voices Global Partnership
• Eligible Countries: All countries
• Eligible Gender: Female
• Target Group: Women social entrepreneurs
• Focus Areas: United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Duration: One-week in-person program (September 2025) and virtual program (August – December 2025)
• Program Language: English
• Host Country: United States (New York, NY)

Benefits

• Fully funded travel and participation in high-profile events during UN Global Goals/Climate Week in New York City.
• Capacity-building training sessions led by global business experts.
• Opportunity to connect with an unparalleled international network of entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers.
• Recognition as a WE Empower Challenge awardee, increasing visibility and credibility.
• Exclusive mentorship and leadership development sessions.

Eligibility Criteria

Before starting an application, please be sure you meet all of the qualifying requirements listed below:

• Applicants must identify as a woman entrepreneur.
• Must have a lead decision-making role within their business or organization.
• Their business or organization must have been operational for at least three years as of August 1, 2025.
• Must employ at least three full-time employees (or full-time equivalents).
• The business or organization must generate a minimum annual revenue of $75,000 (for nonprofits, revenue may include grants and fundraising contributions).
• Must be professionally proficient in English.
• Must be at least 21 years old by August 1, 2025.
• Must be available to travel to New York and participate in all events from September 21 – 28, 2025, with possible virtual participation from August to December 2025.

What to Expect

Applicants must provide basic details about themselves, their business, and their primary country of operation. They must also select their world region from the following:

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

The application requires insights on how your work aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), your vision for a sustainable future, and how you promote gender equality. Additionally, applicants must answer security questions, share social media profiles (if applicable), and agree to the contest’s terms and conditions.

Video Submission Guidelines

A two-minute video in English is required. Content quality matters more than video quality—smartphone recordings are acceptable. Videos exceeding two minutes will not be judged.

What to Include in Your Video?

• Your full name, business/organization name, and job title
• Your primary country of operation
• Your business/organization’s mission
• How does your work support the selected UN SDGs and their impact
• What do you aim to achieve if selected as a winner

How to Submit Your Video?

• Upload to YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc. (ensure link access or provide a password if needed)
• Direct file upload (MP4, MOV, WMV; max 20MB)
• Promotional or written materials will not be considered

How to Apply?

To apply, applicants must follow the following steps:

• Visit the official WE Empower UN SDG Challenge website using the link below.
• Complete the online application form with the required details.
• Prepare and submit a two-minute video responding to specified questions.
• Attach supporting financial documents as needed.
• Apply before the deadline: April 11, 2025.
• Await notification of results in July 2025.

Apply Now

Visit the official website for more details or to inquire. Applicants can also contact [email protected] with the subject line “WE Empower UN SDG Challenge Application.”

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