Program Description
The VV Venture – AI for Impact Program is a 6-month virtual global program (July–December 2026) designed for women purpose-driven entrepreneurs to advance their leadership and AI knowledge. Participants gain access to the Vital Voices Leadership Journey curriculum — built on 25+ years of global leadership experience — alongside practical AI training to optimize operations, enhance customer engagement, and improve decision-making.
Program Structure
The program unfolds in two phases:
- Phase 1 (July–September) focuses on the Vital Voices Leadership Journey, where participants deepen core leadership practices through dynamic sessions, small-group discussions, and guest speakers.
- Phase 2 (October–December) shifts to hands-on AI learning, alternating between expert-led AI Workshops and Makers Space sessions where participants apply tools directly to their own ventures through experimentation and peer collaboration.
Benefits
Through participation in the program, participants will gain:
- Leadership Growth—Participants will complete the Vital Voices Leadership Journey curriculum, based on learnings from over 25 years of working with leaders from across the world.
- AI Learning—Build confidence in understanding AI and applying practical tools to optimize operations, enhance customer engagement, and improve decision-making.
- A Global Peer Network—Join a global cohort of 35 women social entrepreneurs — a lasting community built on shared learning, and collaboration. After program completion, participants will also join the Vital Voices Global Network of 49,000 women change makers across 195 countries.
Learning Journey Overview
The 6-month program runs from July through December 2026, meeting bi-weekly in virtual sessions that last between 90-120 minutes each, typically on weekday mornings at US EST.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Age: 18 years old by June 2026
- Gender Identity: identifies as a woman
- Language: Proficient in English
- Program History: Not currently participating in or have recently graduated from another Vital Voices leadership program within the past year.
- Stage of Business: Operates a registered, for-profit purpose-driven business with a minimum of 5 years of consistent operations and demonstrated market traction.
- Social Impact Mission: Owns and leads a for-profit venture that integrates social impact into its core mission—addressing community needs, environmental sustainability, economic inclusion, or other pressing societal challenges.
- Leadership Role: Serve as a key decision-maker within the business (e.g., founder, co-founder, CEO, or executive leader), with the authority to implement strategic changes and drive innovation.
- No technical background is required.
Program Expectations
Participants are expected to commit to the following:
- Attend all virtual sessions from July 2026 to December 2026. Participants can expect to dedicate approximately 5-7 hours per month across sessions and exercises.
- Complete needs assessment pre-program and 4 impact surveys including a mid and post-program, 12-month, and a 24-month survey.
- Global Engagement: Be open to peer learning and cross-cultural collaboration, and willing and interested in engaging with a global network of women entrepreneurs.
Application Deadline
Application Deadline: May 21, 2026
All applicants will be notified about final decisions by June 30, 2026. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Grant Atlas