Bayer Foundation Women Entrepreneurs Award 2026

About

A 6-month accelerator program designed for women entrepreneurs that provides customized capacity building, mentorship, and a chance to win a €25,000 cash award, along with opportunities for global exposure and networking. Participants will engage in tailored training and receive support to enhance their business operations while connecting with a network of like-minded entrepreneurs and industry experts.

Benefits

• 💼Customized Capacity Building
• 6months of tailored business capacity building and investor matchmaking training
• 👩‍🏫 One-on-One Mentorship
  Access to one-on-one mentorship and monthly expert group sessions
• 💰Cash Prize
  €25,000 in equity-free cash award
• 🌍Global Exposure
  Opportunities for global outreach and visibility
• 🎉Award Ceremony Invitation
  Invitation to attend the award ceremony in Amsterdam from October 26 to 30, 2026
• 🤝Alumni Network
  Join the Bayer Women Founders alumni network and Impact Hub global innovation network

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to female founders, co-founders, or senior executives with decision-making power
• Must have a business that has moved beyond the idea stage and is operational (startup, growth, or expansion phase)
• Annual revenue must not exceed $1 million, or if not profitable, must show strong growth evidence
• Must be a social enterprise, hybrid model, or a nonprofit with a clear plan to transition to a for-profit entity within 12-24 months
• Organization must be registered before January 1, 2025

Participation Commitments

• Must participate in all scheduled training sessions and mentorship meetings
• Attendance at the award ceremony in Amsterdam is required
• Submission of progress reports as per the program's requirements
• Engagement in networking activities with other participants and mentors

Target Sector

Focused on health and food security sectors

Target Location

Open to businesses operating in Asia, Latin America, Africa, or the Middle East