Women founders and social impact leaders around the world are invited to apply for the VV Visionaries Program 2026, a prestigious virtual leadership initiative hosted by Vital Voices Global Partnership in partnership with the Estée Lauder Emerging Leaders Fund.
With applications closing on March 13, 2026 (10:00 AM ET), this program is designed to cultivate the next generation of women leaders driving measurable social impact across communities and industries.
About the VV Visionaries Program
The VV Visionaries Program is a 7-week immersive virtual leadership development experience for women who are redefining leadership in everyday life.
Built on over 25 years of research and engagement with women leaders worldwide, the program operates under a simple but powerful belief:
When women advance, the world succeeds.
Participants gain:
- Advanced leadership training
- Peer-to-peer collaboration opportunities
- Access to global mentors and industry leaders
- Entry into a powerful international alumni network
About Vital Voices Global Partnership
Founded more than 25 years ago, Vital Voices Global Partnership identifies, invests in, and supports women leaders tackling global challenges such as:
- Climate change
- Systemic injustice
- Gender-based violence
- Social and economic inequality
With a network of 47,000+ changemakers across 195 countries, Vital Voices acts as a “venture catalyst,” equipping women with the tools, mentorship, and connections needed to scale bold visions for change.
Program Structure and Dates
Selected participants will:
- Join a cohort of 50 women leaders
- Complete the 7-week Vital Voices Leadership Journey
- Engage in small-group discussions and peer learning
- Interact with guest speakers, including Estée Lauder executives
- Receive a certificate of completion
2026 Cohort Dates
- Cohort 12: June 11 – July 23, 2026
- Cohort 13: August 20 – October 1, 2026
- Cohort 14: October 29 – December 10, 2026
Sessions are held weekly on Thursday mornings (2 hours each).
Key Outcomes
By the end of the program, participants will gain:
- Clarity on their leadership style and strengths
- Tools to lead inclusive and equitable communities
- Confidence to drive measurable social impact
- Ongoing access to the Vital Voices global network
Who Should Apply?
The VV Visionaries Program is looking for women leaders who demonstrate:
- Community-Based Leadership – Proven dedication to social impact
- Innovative Problem-Solving – Creative solutions to community challenges
- Track Record of Action – Measurable initiatives and results
- Commitment to Engagement – Willingness to remain active in the alumni network
- Potential for Scalable Impact – Ability to create a multiplier effect
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Identify as a woman
- Be 18 years or older by May 2026
- Be proficient in English
- Be a founder or co-founder of a social sector organization (NGO, foundation, or social enterprise)
- Not have participated in another Vital Voices leadership program in 2025 or 2026
Program Commitment
Participants must:
- Attend all 7 live virtual sessions
- Dedicate 3–4 hours weekly for assignments and peer collaboration
- Have no more than two absences
- Complete surveys during and up to 12 months post-program
- Remain engaged in the alumni network
Technical Requirements
- Reliable internet connection
- Computer or smartphone with camera
- Ability to participate fully in virtual sessions
How to Apply
Applicants must:
- Complete the online application in English
- Submit before March 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM ET
- Use the “Save and Continue Later” feature to avoid data loss
- Draft responses offline before submission
- Ensure the application is submitted by the intended applicant (non-transferable)
AI Policy
AI tools may be used ethically for clarity and editing but must not generate false or misleading information.
Why This Program Matters
For women founders and social entrepreneurs — especially those building impact-driven organizations in emerging economies — this program offers global exposure, structured leadership development, and a powerful support ecosystem.
If you are building a social impact initiative and ready to scale your influence, the VV Visionaries Program 2026 could be your next strategic leadership step.
