Applications are open for the 2026 cohort of the Cartier Women’s Initiative (CWI), a prestigious global entrepreneurship program designed to empower women impact entrepreneurs. Founded in 2006, this annual initiative supports women-led and women-owned businesses that are using business as a force for good, with a strong commitment to creating sustainable social and environmental impact. The application deadline is June 24, 2025, at 2 p.m. CEST.

This highly competitive program provides a unique combination of financial, human, and social capital support to help early-stage, impact-driven women entrepreneurs grow and scale their businesses. Selected fellows will benefit from up to $100,000 USD in grant funding, international visibility, world-class mentorship, and tailored training opportunities. The initiative spans across nine global regions and includes two thematic awards, namely the Science & Technology Pioneer Award and the General Thematic Award, both of which are open to women innovators from all sectors and geographies.

To be eligible, businesses must be for-profit, incorporated between June 2019 and June 2024, and must have been generating revenue since at least June 2024. Applicants must be women founders or co-founders who hold a significant leadership position within their company, such as CEO, COO, or Managing Director. The business must also be majority-owned by the founders and not have raised more than $2 million USD in dilutive funding. Only one application per business is allowed, and each business can only apply to one award category. Fluency in English at a B2 level or higher is required, as all program activities, training, and networking are conducted in English.

Fellows will commit to a 12-month fellowship journey from January to December 2026, which includes a mix of virtual and in-person engagements such as intensive training at INSEAD, leadership coaching, media training, and exposure to an active global community of over 500 alumni. The program is especially tailored to support impact entrepreneurs advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making it a standout opportunity for women founders committed to sustainability, climate action, social justice, gender equality, and inclusive growth.

The Cartier Women’s Initiative encourages applications from women of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, and strives to build a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative global community of mission-driven changemakers. If you are a woman entrepreneur with a vision to transform your community and the world through impactful, scalable business solutions, this is your chance to gain the recognition, resources, and support you need to thrive.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity