Cartier Women's Initiative Regional Awards

Overview of the Cartier Women's Initiative Regional Awards program:

The Cartier Women’s Initiative DEI Award seeks to empower entrepreneurs leading for-profit, early-stage businesses that address systemic inequities faced by marginalized groups. Open to all genders and all geographic locations, the award prioritizes companies focused on delivering measurable, positive social or environmental impact. The DEI Award targets businesses addressing disparities caused by factors such as age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, abilities, geographic location, or religion. Applicants must demonstrate a proven business model with operations lasting between one to six years and at least one year of revenue generation. This initiative aligns with Cartier’s broader mission of fostering an equitable and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award of the Cartier Women's Initiative is looking for businesses offering products or services designed to close gaps of access, outcome or opportunity for communities that have been underrepresented or underserved. Entrepreneurs across all sectors and geographies are encouraged to apply. While the other regional and thematic awards of the Cartier Women’s Initiative focus on supporting women, this pilot award is open to all genders.

Benefits of the Cartier Women's Initiative Regional Awards program:

• Access to grant funding of up to $100,000.
• Participation in tailored business coaching and financial mentoring sessions.
• Inclusion in the Cartier Womens Initiative community, fostering peer networking and collaboration.
• Increased visibility through Cartiers global platform.

Eligibility criteria of the Cartier Women's Initiative Regional Awards program:

• Business Type: Operate a for-profit business that addresses systemic inequities affecting marginalized groups.
• Business Stage: The business must have been in operation for 1-6 years and demonstrate at least one year of revenue generation.
• Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old by the application deadline.
• Language Proficiency: A strong command of English is required, as all program activities are conducted in this language.
• Geographic Scope: The program is open to entrepreneurs globally, including Canadians, provided they meet the program's qualifications.
• Social Impact Focus: Businesses must address inequities experienced by underserved or underrepresented groups, such as disparities caused by age, gender, geographic barriers, or discrimination.