WE Empower UN SDG 2026 Challenge for women social entrepreneurs

The WE Empower UN SDG 2026 Challenge represents a unique opportunity for women entrepreneurs in Cape Verde who are building businesses with social and environmental impact. Promoted through a partnership between UN Women, the United Nations Global Compact, and other international stakeholders, this initiative aims to recognize and expand women-led projects that directly contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Importance of the SDGs in the Cape Verdean Context

Cape Verde has demonstrated a consistent commitment to the 2030 Agenda, excelling in areas such as renewable energy, sustainable tourism, and gender equality. However, challenges persist, particularly in promoting economic opportunities for women in rural areas and in including innovative business models. SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) are critical pillars for the country's development, but they require tangible actions. This is where women social entrepreneurs come into play: by combining innovation, sustainability, and community impact, they become irreproachable agents of change.

The Impact of Women Social Entrepreneurs

In Cape Verde, women-led projects have transformed local realities: from agricultural cooperatives that combat poverty (SDG 1) to tech startups that democratize access to education (SDG 4). These initiatives not only generate income but also create support networks, empower other women, and strengthen community resilience. The WE Empower Challenge recognizes this potential, offering visibility, training, and resources to scale these solutions.

What the Challenge Offers

The selected candidates will have access to:

• Specialised mentoring in management, finance and sustainability.
• Global networking with leaders from NGOs, the private sector, and UN agencies.
• Seed financing to accelerate projects.
• International visibility during the UN General Assembly in 2026.

Furthermore, participating in this challenge allows you to join a community of women who share values of social innovation and economic justice.

Who can take part?

The WE Empower UN SDG 2026 Challenge is aimed at women residing in Cape Verde who:

• Lead a social or environmental enterprise that has been operating for at least 2 years.
• Have a business model aligned with one or more of the SDGs.
• They demonstrate growth potential and measurable impact on the community.
  Regardless of the sector: sustainable agriculture, health, clean energy, or education — all areas are welcome.

A Call to Action

This is the moment for Cape Verdean women social entrepreneurs to gain visibility and resources to transform their ideas into lasting realities. In a post-pandemic world, where inequalities have deepened, women-led initiatives are not only necessary, but vital.

Don't miss this opportunity! The application deadline is... March 8, 2026.
🔗 Apply here: https://globalfutures.asu.edu/we-empower/

Together, we can accelerate the path towards a more just, sustainable and equitable Cape Verde.