Funding opportunity for women-focused tech solutions (Up to $100,000)
Funding opportunity for women-focused tech solutions (Up to $100,000)
The UNICEF Venture Fund is calling for applications from start-ups developing cutting-edge tech solutions to improve access to quality health care and services. Deadline: 8 May 2025
The UNICEF Venture Fund is calling for applications from start-ups developing cutting-edge tech solutions to improve access to quality health care and services, and ensure the socio-economic participation of women and girls.
The Fund is offering up to USD100,000 in equity-free funding to early-stage, for-profit startups leveraging frontier technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), data science, and blockchain for social impact.
Who can apply?
Applications are open to start-ups in low and middle-income economies developing Open Source technology that improves health outcomes, economic participation, or access to essential services for women and girls. Women-led startups and young founders (under the age of 35) are strongly encouraged to apply.
UNICEF is especially seeking applications from companies:
- Registered in a UNICEF programme country
- Working with a functional prototype
- Committed to Open Source licensing and principles
The UNICEF equity-free funding opportunity seeks early-stage, for-profit startups that use frontier technologies in three key areas:
1. Improve health outcomes for women and girls i.e
Digital health solutions for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment
AI-driven or data-powered platforms for maternal, reproductive, and adolescent health
On-demand referral services for access to healthcare and culturally relevant information
2. Address unique challenges faced by women and girls i.e
Closing the gender data gap to drive inclusive decision-making
Improving accessibility of platforms for underserved communities, including persons with disabilities
Designing solutions that address gender-specific challenges in different cultural and economic contexts
3. Empower women and girls socially and economically i.e.
Expanding financial inclusion and access to economic opportunities
Enabling safe access to education, training, and skill-building
Supporting agency, decision-making power, and workforce participation
Deadline: 8 May 2025