The UNFPA Equalizer Challenge is a global initiative aimed at empowering women-led enterprises to scale innovative solutions that address critical gaps in women’s health. Launched by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in collaboration with MIT Solve, IE University, and Women of Wearables, the challenge seeks to provide catalytic support to ventures that have demonstrated the potential for significant impact in areas such as early detection of cervical and breast cancers, improved menopause care, and advancements in infertility treatment.
The challenge offers equity-free funding, mentorship, and capacity-building resources to help these enterprises move beyond the pilot phase and achieve meaningful, scalable impact on women’s health. With generous support from the Governments of Germany and Luxembourg, the Equalizer Challenge aims to accelerate the reach of transformative solutions for women and girls worldwide.
Name of Organizer
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
MIT Solve
Requirements & Eligibility
Eligibility Criteria:
– Applicant Type: Open to women-led social enterprises and startups that are already operating in the field of women’s health.
– Geographic Focus: Enterprises based in UNFPA programme countries, which include a wide range of low- and middle-income countries.
– Innovation Stage: Applicants should have a proven concept that has moved beyond the pilot phase and is ready for scaling.
– Health Focus Areas: Innovations should address critical women’s health needs, such as:
– Early detection of cervical and breast cancers.
– Improved menopause care.
– Advancements in infertility treatment.
– Impact Potential: Solutions should have the potential to reach underserved communities and contribute to closing the health gap for women and girls.
Application Requirements:
– Proposal Submission: Detailed description of the innovation, including its objectives, target population, and expected outcomes.
– Business Model: Clear articulation of the business model, including revenue streams and sustainability plans.
– Scalability Plan: Strategy for scaling the innovation to reach a larger population.
– Team Composition: Information about the founding team, their roles, and relevant experience.
– Financial Information: Budget and financial projections to support scaling efforts.
Prize
The Equalizer Challenge offers the following support to selected winners:
– Equity-Free Funding: Each winner will receive up to $20,000 in non-dilutive funding to support their scaling efforts.
– Capacity-Building Support: Winners will participate in a six-month accelerator program, which includes:
– Biweekly coaching sessions.
– One-on-one mentorship from seasoned experts in health innovation and entrepreneurship.
– Access to a global network of investors, partners, and stakeholders.
– Exposure and Recognition: Opportunities to showcase innovations at international forums and events, gaining visibility and credibility in the global health innovation ecosystem.
– Technical Assistance: Support in areas such as product development, market entry strategies, and impact measurement.
Deadline:
The deadline for submitting applications is May 4, 2025.
No responses yet