Arizona State University 2022 WE Empower UN SDG Challenge for Women Entrepreneurs

The WE Empower UN SDG Challenge is the first-of-its-kind global competition for social entrepreneurs who are advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals and inspiring entire communities to act 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 entrepreneurs and business leaders can make toward the SDGs and solving the world’s greatest challenges.

In 2022, the WE Empower Challenge Awardees will participate in events surrounding the 77th UN General Assembly as well as will 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.

• Table of Content
• About Arizona State University
• WE Empower UN SDG Challenge
• Aim and Benefits of WE Empower UN SDG Challenge
• Requirements for WE Empower UN SDG Challenge Qualification
• Interview date, Process and Venue for WE Empower UN SDG Challenge
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About Arizona State University

ASU is the only Arizona university with more than 40 degree programs ranked among the nation’s top 25 by U.S. News & World Report.

WE Empower UN SDG Challenge

Aim and Benefits of WE Empower UN SDG Challenge

In 2022, the WE Empower Challenge Awardees will participate in events surrounding the 77th UN General Assembly as well as will 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.

Requirements for WE Empower UN SDG Challenge Qualification

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)
• My business/organization generates at least $100,000 USD in annual sales or revenue
• 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 Friday, September 17 through Saturday, September 25 2021 (COVID-19 travel restrictions permitting) AND if necessary, I am able participate in a virtual program from August through October 2021.

Interview date, Process and Venue for WE Empower UN SDG Challenge

Applicants will be assessed based on a variety of factors, including the following considerations.

1. Commit to the entire week of the in-person program (travel permitting) or a virtual program held from August through October 2021 – no exceptions.
2. Applicant’s business or organization has a substantial impact on the SDGs and a clear vision for how their business will create the future we want in 2030.
3. Help shape the community dialogue about women’s advancement and the SDG’s in their region, and wield the influence necessary.

Applicants with more than one business or organization, please complete the application regarding the business/organization THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO FOCUS ON during this Global Challenge opportunity, if you are selected to participate in the program. 

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Applicants must answer basic identifying information about themselves, their business, and their primary country of business. -Applicants must identify which world region they are located in from the following regions:

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

The application requires answers about how your work relates to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and your vision for a sustainable future.

The application asks you how you will help foster gender equality through your work.

Applicants will be asked to answer several security questions, provide social media profile information (if applicable), and agree to the terms and conditions within the contest entry form.

Finally, applicants must submit a two-minute video using the following guidelines.

For more details, visit the website.