Marking two decades of impact, the 2026 Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards Ceremony took place in Bangkok, Thailand, on 10 June, recognising 30 outstanding fellows from around the world whose businesses and ideas continue to drive meaningful change across industries and communities.

Established in 2006, the Cartier Women’s Initiative was created to provide women entrepreneurs with the financial, social, and human capital needed to grow their businesses and strengthen their long-term impact. Twenty years later, the programme has evolved into a global platform supporting women-led innovation while creating opportunities that extend far beyond funding alone.

The 30 selected fellows for 2026 will receive grant funding, alongside leadership training, mentorship, and access to an international community of more than 500 changemakers. Today, the Initiative recognises women-led businesses across nine regions and includes a dedicated Science & Technology Pioneer Award, further expanding its reach across sectors and disciplines.

Designed as a long-term support system rather than a single recognition programme, the Cartier Women’s Initiative combines grants, executive coaching, business training, mentorship, and lifelong community support. Its growing network now includes more than 520 active members across nearly 80 countries, creating an ecosystem built on collaboration, shared knowledge, and continued growth.

The impact of this model continues to be reflected in the community’s progress: 66 per cent of fellows’ businesses remain in operation today, while many have expanded into new markets, increased revenues, and secured additional investment following participation in the programme.

During the ceremony, Amal Clooney addressed the 2026 fellows with a message of encouragement, saying:

“To the Cartier Women’s Initiative fellows of 2026, I want to say: congratulations. What you do is not easy. Stay committed, stay courageous, and remember that the only way to fail is not to try.”

Looking ahead, applications for the 2027 Cartier Women’s Initiative are now open, with thirty new fellows set to be selected across ten award categories, continuing the programme’s commitment to empowering the next generation of women entrepreneurs worldwide.