Applications are now open for the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards 2027, a globally recognized program supporting women entrepreneurs with up to $100,000 in grant funding, alongside mentorship, training, and international exposure.
The initiative is designed to empower women-led, impact-driven businesses that are addressing social and environmental challenges through scalable solutions.
About the Program
The Cartier Women’s Initiative is a global entrepreneurship program that supports women founders who are leveraging business as a force for good.
Launched in 2006, the program identifies and funds high-impact, women-led businesses across multiple regions, including Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Each year, fellows are selected from different regions and thematic categories, forming a global network of changemakers committed to sustainable development.
Funding and Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- $100,000 grant for first-place winners
- $60,000 grant for second-place winners
- $30,000 grant for third-place winners
In addition to funding, participants will gain access to:
- Leadership training and executive coaching
- Business and financial mentorship
- INSEAD Women’s Impact Entrepreneurship Program
- Global exposure and media visibility
- Access to a lifelong network of over 500 entrepreneurs
The program combines financial capital, human capital, and social capital to support long-term business growth.
Focus Areas
The initiative supports businesses that:
- Address social or environmental challenges
- Contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Deliver measurable impact and scalable solutions
There are no strict sector limitations, making it open to a wide range of industries.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, applicants must:
- Be women entrepreneurs in a leadership role (e.g., CEO, Founder, Managing Director)
- Own or co-own a for-profit business
- Have a business generating between $50,000 and $5 million in annual revenue
- Employ between 5 and 250 team members
- Have raised less than $2 million in funding
- Demonstrate measurable social or environmental impact
- Be at least 18 years old and proficient in English
The business must be independent, scalable, and impact-driven.
Program Structure
The fellowship runs throughout 2027 and includes:
- Leadership and communication training
- Workshops and coaching sessions
- Global networking opportunities
- Awards ceremony and recognition event
Fellows are also required to track and report their impact over time.
Why You Should Apply
The Cartier Women’s Initiative is one of the most prestigious global programs for women entrepreneurs, offering not just funding but world-class mentorship, training, and international visibility.
For African women founders, this is a rare opportunity to access global networks, scale impact, and position their businesses on the world stage
Application Deadline
- Deadline: June 16, 2026
Applications opened on April 16, 2026, and will close strictly on the deadline.
METHOD OF APPLICATION
Interested and Qualified candidates should use link below to Apply.
Follow these steps to successfully apply:
Step 1: Visit the Official Application Portal
Start your application here:
Apply here:
https://www.cartierwomensinitiative.com/awards
Step 2: Choose Your Category
Select the regional or thematic award that best fits your business.
Step 3: Review Eligibility Criteria
Ensure your business meets all requirements before proceeding.
Step 4: Prepare Your Application
Gather details about your business model, impact, and financials.
Step 5: Complete the Online Form
Fill in all required sections carefully.
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