The ITU Gender Champions Programme 2026 is inviting applications from young women who are using technology and digital innovation to create positive change in their communities, countries, or regions.
Implemented by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) with support from Australia and Women’s WorldWide Web (W4), the programme aims to recognize and support emerging women leaders working to advance digital transformation and digital inclusion.
For its inaugural cohort, up to four outstanding young women aged 18 to 25 will be selected. Selected Gender Champions will have the opportunity to participate in the AI for Good Global Summit 2027 in Geneva, Switzerland.
At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | ITU Gender Champions Programme |
| Organizer | International Telecommunication Union (ITU) |
| Programme Type | Women in Technology & Digital Leadership |
| Number of Champions | Up to 4 |
| Age | 18–25 years |
| Eligibility | Young women from around the world |
| Main Focus | Digital Transformation & Digital Inclusion |
| Summit | AI for Good Global Summit 2027 |
| Summit Location | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Summit Dates | 21–25 June 2027 |
| Applications Open | 21 September 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 15 November 2026 |
| Selection Period | 16 November 2026 – 7 March 2027 |
| Cohort Announcement | 8 March 2027 |
About the Programme
The ITU Gender Champions Programme recognizes young women who are using technology to address challenges and create positive change.
The programme focuses on supporting emerging women leaders who are contributing to digital transformation, digital inclusion, innovation, and a more equitable digital future.
Selected participants will join a global network of experts, policymakers, innovators, and other women leaders working to expand the benefits of technology.
What Does the Programme Offer?
Selected Gender Champions will have the opportunity to:
- Participate in the AI for Good Global Summit 2027 in Geneva
- Connect with global experts, policymakers, and technology innovators
- Strengthen their leadership skills
- Amplify their work and impact
- Join a global network of young women leaders
- Gain international exposure for their digital inclusion work
- Potentially receive support for a community-level project
Subject to sufficient available funding, selected Gender Champions may also receive support to implement or strengthen a community-level project focused on women's and girls' digital inclusion, access, skills, or empowerment.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is intended for young women who are already using technology or digital innovation to create positive change.
Applicants may be working in areas such as:
- Digital skills development
- Digital inclusion
- Expanding internet connectivity
- Technology and innovation
- Artificial intelligence for social good
- Online safety
- Digital education
- Women's and girls' empowerment
- Inclusive digital policies
- Community technology initiatives
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should:
- Be a young woman aged 18–25
- Be using technology or digital innovation to create positive change
- Demonstrate meaningful impact in their community, country, or region
- Show leadership potential
- Be actively contributing to digital transformation or digital inclusion
- Be available to participate in the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva from 21–25 June 2027
- Meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the official Programme Terms and Conditions
- The final selection will consider diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and geographical representation.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be reviewed by the ITU and programme partners based on the eligibility and selection criteria contained in the official Terms and Conditions.
The selection process will consider factors such as:
- The applicant's leadership
- Demonstrated impact
- Use of technology or digital innovation
- Contribution to digital inclusion
- Potential for further impact
- Overall alignment with the objectives of the Gender Champions Programme
- Diversity of experience and geographical representation
Due to the expected number of applications, only pre-selected candidates will be contacted.
Project Support
In addition to participation in the AI for Good Global Summit, selected Gender Champions may, subject to sufficient available funding, receive support to implement or strengthen a community-level project.
The project should contribute to areas such as:
- Women's digital inclusion
- Girls' access to technology
- Digital skills
- Digital empowerment
- Access and connectivity
- Inclusive digital opportunities
How to Apply
Follow these steps:
- Review the official ITU Gender Champions Programme information.
- Read the Programme Terms and Conditions carefully.
- Confirm that you meet the age and programme eligibility requirements.
- Prepare information about your leadership experience and digital impact.
- Explain how you are using technology or innovation to create positive change.
- Complete the official application form.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Indicative Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 21 September 2026 |
| Applications Close | 15 November 2026 |
| Review & Selection | 16 November 2026 – 7 March 2027 |
| Cohort Announcement | 8 March 2027 |
| AI for Good Global Summit | 21–25 June 2027 |
Application Deadline
The application deadline is:
15 November 2026
Applicants should complete and submit their applications before the deadline.
Ready to Apply?
If you are a young woman aged 18–25 using technology, digital innovation, AI, connectivity, digital skills, or other technology-based approaches to create positive change, the ITU Gender Champions Programme offers an opportunity to gain international exposure, strengthen your leadership, and connect with a global network of digital inclusion leaders.
APPLY NOW
Official ITU Gender Champions Programme:
https://www.itu.int/genderchampions/
