Celebrating Women’s Entrepreneurship: The Cartier Women’s Initiative

A Global Platform for Female Entrepreneurs

The Cartier Women’s Initiative (CWI) is an annual awards program designed to celebrate and support female entrepreneurs worldwide. Established in 2006, the initiative has expanded its reach to include 33 finalists from 23 countries, representing a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, education, and food systems. The CWI awards program not only offers cash prizes, but also provides business education services and access to a community of like-minded entrepreneurs facing similar challenges.

The 2023 Edition: Expanding and Diversifying

This year, the Cartier Women’s Initiative has expanded its scope by recognizing women entrepreneurs from Armenia, Bulgaria, the Dominican Republic, and Singapore for the first time in its 16-year history. Additionally, the program has added two new regional categories, Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa and Oceania, as well as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award, which is open to all genders.

A Comprehensive Support System

The Cartier Women’s Initiative offers a wide range of support to its finalists and awardees, including financial capital, human capital, and social capital support. The program provides grants ranging from $30,000 to $100,000, one-on-one training sessions and workshops, international exposure, and access to an extensive network of experts and peers.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

To be eligible for the Cartier Women’s Initiative Regional Awards, applicants must meet specific criteria such as having a woman in a leadership position within the company, being in the early stages of development, generating revenue, and demonstrating a positive impact on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The application process is open to women entrepreneurs worldwide, with the deadline for the 2023 edition being June 30, 2022.

The Impact of the Cartier Women’s Initiative

The Cartier Women’s Initiative has had a significant impact on female entrepreneurs worldwide, providing them with the necessary resources, education, and networking opportunities to scale their businesses and create lasting social and environmental impact.