The Cartier Women's Initiative Awards are an international business plan competition for women created in 2006 by Cartier and the Women's Forum with the support of the consulting firm McKinsey & Company and INSEAD business school. Five female entrepreneurs, one per continent, are awarded annually. Each of them receive coaching support for a full year, a US$ 20 000 grant and an exclusive Trophy designed by Cartier. The competition comprises two rounds: the selection of the Finalists in June based on their short business plans and the selection of the Laureates in October based on their detailed business plans.

December 24, 2008 Interview with Mame Diene, Karistal, Senegal The 2008 Laureate for Africa speaks about her nomination last October and its impact on her business so far. October 17, 2008 Watch the Ceremony video The Awards Ceremony took place on Friday October 17, 2008 in Deauville, France.