Applications Open: 2026 Westpac Female Founder Awards
The Westpac Female Founder Awards are now open for 2026. (note applications close 30 June 2026)
Award Categories for 2026
The awards recognise women-led Australian businesses across three categories:
Trailblazer Award
For early-stage businesses (three years or less) that are:
- Disrupting an industry or market
- Introducing innovative products, services, or business models
- Demonstrating early traction and strong growth potential
Thrive Award
For established businesses (over three years) that have:
- Achieved sustained financial performance and growth
- Evolved over time to remain competitive
- Built a strong, enduring market position
Greater Good Award
For businesses and social enterprises whose products or services:
- Drive meaningful social or community impact
- Deliver commercial and measurable outcomes
- Embed impact as a core part of their business model
There is also an overall Female Founder of the Year Award selected from the finalists.
Eligibility Criteria for Australian Founders
To be eligible, businesses must be:
- At least 50% women-owned and women-led
- Australian-based
- Operating with a valid ABN
- Majority or wholly Australian-owned
Prizes and Business Support
The awards include:
- Cash prizes ($10,000 to each category winner and $30,000 to the Founder of the Year)
- Mentoring and coaching
- Media training
- Advertising support (up to $120,000 in value for the Founder of the Year)
How to Apply and Key Dates
Apply for the 2026 Westpac Female Founder Awards
Note Applications close on 30 June 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions: Westpac Female Founder Awards 2026
Q: Who is eligible to apply for the Westpac Female Founder Awards?
- Be at least 50% women-owned and women-led.
- Be based in Australia.
- Operate with a valid Australian Business Number (ABN).
- Be majority or wholly Australian-owned.
Q: What are the different award categories?
- Trailblazer Award: For early-stage businesses (operating for 3 years or less) driving industry disruption and demonstrating strong growth potential.
- Thrive Award: For established businesses (operating for over 3 years) that have achieved sustained financial performance and a strong market position.
- Greater Good Award: For businesses and social enterprises that embed measurable social or community impact into their core commercial model.
- Note: An overall Female Founder of the Year winner will be selected from finalists across all categories.
What are the prizes for the winners?
- Category Winners: $10,000 cash prize, plus mentoring, coaching, and media training.
- Female Founder of the Year: $30,000 cash prize, mentoring, coaching, media training, and up to $120,000 in advertising support.
When do applications close for the 2026 awards?
Applications close on 30 June 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.
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