The BRICS Women’s Startups Contest 2026 is a prestigious global competition aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs from BRICS and partner countries. This initiative provides a platform for innovative women-led startups to gain global visibility, mentorship, and access to investment opportunities.
The contest is organized under the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance to promote women entrepreneurship and innovation across emerging economies. It aims to strengthen collaboration among women entrepreneurs globally and support scalable startups in key sectors.
BRICS Women’s Startups Contest Benefits
- Mentorship from global experts
- Networking with international investors
- Business growth and scaling support
- Visibility in global markets
- Potential funding and partnership opportunities
BRICS Women’s Startups Contest Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of BRICS nations (Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the UAE)
- Must hold a key leadership position (Founder, Co-Founder, or equivalent)
- Must play an active role in the startup’s operations & strategy
- Demonstrate the long-term social, economic, or environmental impact and sustainability of the solution
- Provide evidence of a viable business model, market demand, and any existing traction or growth
- Clearly describe the solution, the problem it addresses, and its innovative and scalable features
- Demonstrate alignment with BRICS priorities and the potential to scale, replicate, and create impact across BRICS countries
How to Apply for BRICS Women’s Startups Contest
- Submit online application via the official website
- Provide business pitch (maximum 5 pages, PDF format)
- Include link to a short video presentation (maximum 3 minutes)
- Submit financial and operational summary (if available)
- Provide proof of eligibility (citizenship/residency or business registration document)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the BRICS Women’s Startups Contest 2026. These answers cover eligibility, application requirements, evaluation process, and key deadlines to help you prepare a successful submission.
Who can apply for the contest?
The contest is open to women entrepreneurs who are citizens or permanent residents of BRICS nations (Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, UAE). Applicants must hold a key leadership position at their startup and demonstrate Impact, Sustainability & Commercial Viability & Traction etc.
What documents do I need to provide when applying?
Applicants are required to submit: Business pitch (maximum 5 pages, PDF format), link to a short video presentation (maximum 3 minutes), financial and operational summary (if available), and proof of eligibility (citizenship/residency or business registration document).
Can I apply under more than one category?
No, applicants must select the category that best aligns with their project’s core area of business. Please carefully review the category descriptions to choose the most suitable option.
What happens after I submit my application?
After submission, applications go through a three-stage evaluation process: Qualification Stage (screening for eligibility), Technical Analysis (sector-specific expert evaluation), and Final Review (strategic alignment with BRICS priorities). If eligible, applications progress to Technical Analysis.
Who are the judges and evaluators?
The judging panel includes sector-specific experts from BRICS nations with deep knowledge of respective categories. The final review is conducted by the Chairs of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance chapters, ensuring alignment with BRICS priorities and regional relevance.
Can I modify my application after submission?
No, once your application has been submitted, it cannot be modified. Thoroughly review all documents and information before submission.
How will I be notified if I am selected as a finalist?
Finalists will be notified via the contact information provided during application. An official announcement will also be made on the contest website and through official BRICS WBA communication channels.
What happens if I cannot attend the final event in India?
If unable to attend the final event in India, participation in awards ceremony may be arranged virtually. However, in-person attendance is highly encouraged to take full advantage of networking and promotional opportunities.
What are the business stages for competition?
Startups compete in three development stages: Early Stage (MVP/prototype phase), Growth (established product with market traction), and Scale-up (mature startups expanding into new markets).
What are the evaluation criteria?
Applications are evaluated based on: Impact & Sustainability (25%), Solution & Innovation (25%), Commercial Viability & Traction (20%), BRICS Alignment & Scalability (10%), Technology Readiness & Capability (10%), and Partnerships & Networks (10%).
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