Aspen is a place for leaders to lift their sights above the possessions which possess them. To confront their own nature as human beings, to regain control over their own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and hence more self-fulfilling.
Launched in fall 2025, the Workplace Innovation Now (WIN) Challenge is a new initiative led by Aspen Digital, a program of the Aspen Institute. Aspen Digital will leverage its expertise in emerging technology and narrative change to unlock new opportunities and partner with the Institute’s Economic Opportunities Program, drawing on its long experience helping people thrive in a changing economy.
Supported by Pivotal, a group of organizations founded by Melinda French Gates, the WIN Challenge aims to discover and scale innovative ideas that will help women thrive and everyone win in a rapidly changing workplace. The $60 million grant competition is focused on three key pillars: Culture & Practices, AI, and Narrative. It will look for scalable solutions to improve workplace culture and practices, leverage AI to build a workplace that supports everyone, and reshape narratives and norms. Up to eight innovative awardees per pillar will each receive grants of either $2.5 million or $5 million to implement their solution.
“As the workplace goes through profound shifts, driven by rapidly emerging new technologies, it is critical that we make sure that everyone has the opportunity to realize their full potential. The WIN Challenge reflects the Aspen Institute’s deep commitment to strengthening economic opportunity and trust across society by investing in workplace innovations that serve the needs of all. We are grateful to Melinda French Gates and Pivotal for their leadership in this vital effort.”
Dan Porterfield President & CEO of the Aspen Institute
“Women—especially mothers of young children—are leaving the workforce at an alarming rate, driven out by inflexible policies, rising childcare costs, bias, and harassment. Now is the time to invest in better workplaces: ones that support balance, ensure safety for all workers, and recognize women as essential leaders. When we remove barriers for women, we unlock potential across the entire economy.”
