Advancing Science Through Women’s Leadership

The UNESCO WINGS Caribbean (Women Inspiring New Generations in Science) fellowship program has been officially launched, opening new opportunities for women scientists and innovators across the Caribbean region. The initiative aims to strengthen the leadership and visibility of women in science while supporting research and innovation projects that address key regional challenges.

Launched by the UNESCO Office for the Caribbean on September 7, WINGS Caribbean is being developed under the theme “Advancing Science. Advancing Women. Transforming the Caribbean.” and will award two fellowships of USD 10,000 each: one in STEM fields and one focused on social impact.

Funding Opportunities for Caribbean Researchers

The fellowship is targeted at mid-career and advanced-career women researchers, innovators and professionals whose work contributes to addressing pressing Caribbean priorities. Eligible projects may focus on areas such as climate and environmental resilience, disaster risk reduction, digital innovation, applied scientific research, governance, social development, social entrepreneurship and community-based research. Fellows will have up to 12 months to develop and implement projects designed to generate measurable societal benefits.

WINGS Caribbean builds on UNESCO’s broader commitment to promoting the participation of women and girls in science throughout the region. The program is being implemented by the UNESCO Office for the Caribbean in technical collaboration with the Caribbean Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, Faculty of Science and Technology. Together, the partners aim to promote scientific excellence, increase the visibility of women in research and innovation, and foster a growing regional network of women leaders contributing to a more resilient, innovative and sustainable Caribbean.

Call for Applications

Applications are now open to eligible women nationals of UNESCO Member States and Associate Members in the English-speaking and Dutch-speaking Caribbean. The application deadline is September 30, 2026 at 23:59 Jamaica time (UTC−5). For additional information and application details, prospective candidates should consult the official WINGS Caribbean call and application materials available through UNESCO.

The WINGS Caribbean initiative seeks to empower women scientists and innovators whose work can contribute to sustainable development and evidence-based solutions for Caribbean societies. By investing in women’s leadership in science, the programme aims to help strengthen regional research capacity and accelerate progress toward a more inclusive and resilient future.