Cartier Women’s Initiative

The Cartier Women’s Initiative Regional Awards 2026 offers a significant opportunity for women entrepreneurs around the globe. Since its inception in 2006, this prestigious international program has been driving change by supporting women-led businesses that deliver both social and environmental impact. The awards are designed to scale early-stage ventures, providing financial grants, mentorship, and access to a global network of experts.

If you're a women-identifying entrepreneur with a passion for making a difference, this program could be your ticket to scaling your business and gaining the recognition it deserves.

What the Cartier Women’s Initiative Offers

The Cartier Women’s Initiative Regional Awards provide a comprehensive support package that includes:

• Financial Grants: Depending on the stage of the business, the program offers tiered financial grants of USD 100,000 (approx. AUD 153,000), USD 60,000, or USD 30,000.

• Leadership Coaching: Tailored coaching sessions to help founders navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses.

• Business Training: Workshops and resources designed to enhance business strategies and improve operations.

• International Exposure: A chance to showcase your business on the global stage, helping you attract new investors, customers, and partners.

• Mentorship: Access to experienced mentors who provide invaluable guidance on everything from business strategy to sustainability.

• Global Network: Become part of a global community of impact-driven women entrepreneurs and leaders.

Who is Eligible?

The Cartier Women’s Initiative Regional Awards are open to women-identifying founders in key leadership roles, such as CEOs, who meet the following criteria:

• Age: 18 years or older.

• Business Type: The applicant must lead a for-profit business that has been incorporated between June 2019 and June 2024.

• Revenue: The business must generate recurring revenue for at least one year.

• Funding History: The business should have raised less than USD 2 million in dilutive funding.

• Ownership: The business must be majority-owned by the founders or the founding team.

• Social or Environmental Impact: The business must contribute to at least one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• Application Language: English proficiency is required (minimum CEFR B2+).

• Commitment: Applicants must be able to commit to the fellowship program throughout 2026.

Additionally, the Cartier Women’s Initiative focuses on businesses that address social or environmental challenges and demonstrate scalability and sustainability. While the initiative accepts projects from various sectors, the businesses must integrate innovative, impact-driven solutions into their operations.

Why Apply?

The Cartier Women’s Initiative provides more than just financial support - it offers a platform for women entrepreneurs to propel their businesses into the international spotlight. As the world increasingly turns its attention to sustainable business practices, this initiative offers a unique opportunity to not only grow your business but also make a lasting impact on society.

Whether you are looking for funding to expand your operations, access to world-class mentors, or the chance to network with like-minded entrepreneurs, the Cartier Women’s Initiative Regional Awards can provide the tools and resources you need to succeed.

How to Apply

The application window for the Cartier Women’s Initiative Regional Awards 2026 is open from April 18, 2025, to June 24, 2025. To apply, you’ll need to submit a complete application along with the necessary documentation to demonstrate your business’s alignment with the eligibility criteria.

In preparation, ensure that your business:

• Has been incorporated within the specified time frame.

• Demonstrates clear social or environmental impact.

• Is majority-owned by the founding team.

• Has at least one year of recurring revenue.

• Has not raised over USD 2 million in dilutive funding.

Final Thoughts

The Cartier Women’s Initiative Regional Awards is more than just a funding opportunity; it is a platform for women entrepreneurs to make a difference. If you are a women-led business aiming to scale with a focus on positive social or environmental impact, this is your chance to be recognised and supported on a global scale.

With a financial grant, mentorship, and access to an international network, this program empowers women entrepreneurs to achieve their vision while making a tangible difference in the world. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity - apply before June 24, 2025!