Cartier Marks 20 Years of Supporting Women Entrepreneurs

Over the past two decades, Cartier has built one of luxury’s most consequential philanthropic programs. While the Maison is known for exceptional jewelry and watchmaking, the Cartier Women’s Initiative has become an equally enduring expression of its values—investing not in precious materials, but in women whose businesses create measurable social and environmental impact.

That milestone was celebrated in Bangkok this June, where Cartier marked the Initiative’s 20th anniversary with its annual awards ceremony at Chulalongkorn University. Under the theme “Women Lighting the Path,” the event honoured 30 fellows from 19 countries selected for ventures addressing challenges ranging from healthcare and education to sustainability, circular economies and scientific innovation.

Founded in 2006, the Cartier Women’s Initiative has evolved from an awards programme into a global entrepreneurial network. It has supported 330 women entrepreneurs from 67 countries, distributed more than US$14.1 million in grants, and cultivated a community of over 520 members spanning more than 80 countries.

The Bangkok ceremony welcomed more than 700 guests, including entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and members of Cartier’s international community. Hosted by broadcaster and author Sandi Toksvig, the evening featured keynote addresses from Amal Clooney, chairman of Cartier Culture and Philanthropy Cyrille Vigneron, and Thai business leader Nualphan Lamsam, all underscoring the importance of courageous leadership and expanding opportunities for women.

This year’s 30 fellows competed across ten categories, including nine regional awards and the Science & Technology Pioneer Award. First-place winners each received US$100,000, while second- and third-place recipients were awarded US$60,000 and US$30,000, respectively. Beyond financial support, every fellow enters a year-long development programme and gains lifelong access to the Cartier Women’s Initiative’s global network.

The anniversary programme extended beyond the awards. Cartier Dialogues brought together leaders including Amal Clooney, Olympian and filmmaker Ramla Ali, psychologist Lisa Orbé-Austin, and Cyrille Vigneron to examine authentic leadership, imposter syndrome and the evolving definition of strength. An accompanying exhibition traced two decades of the Initiative through the stories of women whose businesses have improved lives across sectors including biodiversity, healthcare, education and economic inclusion.