The EQUALS in Tech Awards 2027 are now open for applications worldwide. This contest recognizes initiatives, programmes, projects, products, or services that use technology to advance digital gender equality.
Organized by the EQUALS Global Partnership, the awards highlight practical work across inclusion, digital skills, leadership, and safer digital spaces. If your organization is running an ongoing project in this area, this may be a strong opportunity for global visibility and network-building.
Application Deadline:
7 November 2026 (23:59 CET)
Tell Me About The Award:
The 2027 EQUALS in Tech Awards, organized by the EQUALS Global Partnership, recognize outstanding initiatives, programmes, projects, products, and services that use technology to advance digital gender equality and help close the digital gender divide. Operating under the renewed EQUALS 2.0 framework, the awards celebrate impactful efforts at global, regional, and national levels across three core categories:
- Emerging Tech for Inclusion Award: For initiatives promoting equitable access to and benefits from emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence and climate tech—for women and girls.
- Digital Skills & Leadership Pathways Award: For initiatives equipping women and girls with digital skills, leadership capabilities, and pathways to leadership roles in the digital economy.
- Safe and Inclusive Digital Spaces Award: For initiatives promoting safe, inclusive, and empowering digital environments free from online violence, harassment, and exclusion.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Digital Inclusion, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Gender Equality, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Skills, EdTech, Cybersecurity, and Social Innovation.
Type:
Global Technology & Gender Equality Award / Recognition Programme
Who can Apply?
- Eligible Entities: Open worldwide to civil society and non-governmental organizations, government institutions, international organizations, academic/research institutions, private-sector entities, multi-stakeholder initiatives, social enterprises, and entrepreneurial ventures.
- Project Status: The specific programme, initiative, or project must be ongoing and must not have concluded at the time of application. (Note: Applications focusing on an organization as a whole, rather than a specific project/initiative, are not eligible).
How are Applicants Selected?
Eligible applications are independently reviewed and assessed based on:
- Impact and reach
- Scalability and replicability
- Innovation
- Collaboration
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Global (open worldwide to initiatives from all regions).
Where will the Award/Event be Taken?
Global recognition by the EQUALS Global Partnership (founding partners include ITU, UN Women, International Trade Centre, GSMA, and United Nations University).
How Many Awards?
Multiple category awards across the three established workstreams.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Global recognition from a multi-sectoral partnership committed to digital gender equality.
- Integration into a strong supportive community of digital gender advocates.
- Opportunities to expand professional networks, visibility, and project scale.
How Long Will it Last?
Annual award cycle for the 2027 edition.
How to Apply:
- Review the award criteria and choose the appropriate category (Emerging Tech, Digital Skills & Leadership, or Safe and Inclusive Digital Spaces).
- Prepare details regarding your ongoing project or initiative’s impact, reach, and innovation.
- Submit your application through the official EQUALS in Tech online portal before 7 November 2026 (23:59 CET).
Application Form: Apply here
👉 Visit the official contest page for details
