The Visa Everywhere Pioneers Programme 2026 is a powerful initiative designed to support and celebrate women entrepreneurs with refugee backgrounds across Europe. Organized by Visa Inc., this programme highlights innovative women who are creating meaningful impact in their communities through business and entrepreneurship.
Now in its fourth year, the programme continues to expand its reach and influence, offering selected participants funding, mentorship, and growth opportunities to scale their ventures and strengthen their entrepreneurial journey.
About the Visa Everywhere Pioneers Programme
The Visa Everywhere Pioneers Programme focuses on empowering female founders from refugee or displaced backgrounds who are building businesses in Europe. These women are recognized not only for their innovation but also for their resilience, leadership, and ability to drive change.
Also Apply For: UNDP Pan-African Incubation Programme for AgriTech Startups 2026
The initiative shines a spotlight on entrepreneurs working across multiple sectors, including:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Technology
- Social impact
- Advocacy and community development
By supporting these founders, the programme contributes to economic inclusion and helps create sustainable opportunities for underserved communities.
What Winners Will Receive
For the 2026 edition, the programme will select 30 outstanding female entrepreneurs. These winners will receive a combination of financial and non-financial support, including:
1. Cash Grants
Each winner will receive a €2,000 (or £2,000) grant, contributing to a total pool of over €60,000 distributed across the cohort.
2. Business Mentorship
Participants will gain access to expert mentors who will guide them on business growth, strategy, and scaling.
3. Language Training
To further support integration and expansion, winners will also receive access to language courses.
These benefits are designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their operations, expand their reach, and build sustainable businesses.
Who Can Apply?
The Visa Everywhere Pioneers Programme is open to women who meet the following eligibility criteria:
Basic Requirements
- Must be a woman aged 18 or older
- Must reside in eligible European countries, including EU member states, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, Turkey, Iceland, Georgia, Moldova, or Ukraine
- Must have an active business or product already in the market
- Must have been operating for at least 12 months
- Must own at least 51% of the business
- Must have a physical or digital presence (e.g., website, store, or platform)
Refugee or Displacement Criteria
Applicants must also meet at least one of the following:
- Hold official refugee status
- Be an asylum seeker with the legal right to work
- Be under humanitarian protection
- Be from a high-risk country (as defined by global indices) and have relocated within the last five years
This ensures the programme targets women who have overcome displacement challenges and are actively contributing to their new communities.
Key Dates for 2026
Applicants should take note of the following timeline:
- Applications Open: March 17, 2026
- Application Deadline: May 1, 2026 (23:59 GMT)
- Winners Announcement: June 20, 2026 (World Refugee Day)
Early application is strongly recommended due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Programme Partners
The Visa Everywhere Pioneers Programme is delivered in collaboration with leading organizations that support refugee entrepreneurship:
- The Entrepreneurial Refugee Network (TERN) – supports refugee founders in building businesses
- SINGA – promotes social and economic inclusion
- Odyssea – provides skills training and job access
- Delitelabs – supports entrepreneurship and career development
These partners bring valuable expertise and resources, ensuring participants receive well-rounded support throughout the programme.
Why You Should Apply
The Visa Everywhere Pioneers Programme offers more than just funding—it provides a platform for growth, visibility, and long-term success. By participating, you will:
- Gain recognition as a leading female entrepreneur
- Access mentorship from industry experts
- Strengthen your business skills and strategy
- Expand your professional network
- Increase your chances of scaling your venture
For women entrepreneurs with refugee backgrounds, this programme represents a unique opportunity to turn challenges into success stories.
Apply Now!
The Visa Everywhere Pioneers Programme 2026 is a meaningful initiative that celebrates diversity, innovation, and resilience. Supporting female entrepreneurs from refugee backgrounds, it helps build inclusive economies and empowers women to lead change through business.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready to take your business to the next level, this programme could be the breakthrough opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
For more information, visit the Visa Everywhere Pioneers Programme.
