Purpose of the Research Prize
The HWHE Research Prize invites evidence-based projects that explain how women’s health supports economic participation across APEC economies. It promotes robust data and analysis to guide policy and business decisions region-wide.
Core Themes for Submission
Applicants must address one or more pillars of the Healthy Women, Healthy Economic Policy Toolkit.
These pillars include workplace health, health access, sexual and reproductive health, and gender-based violence.
Work-life balance and safety at work also qualify as key research categories.
Who Can Apply
Individuals or teams from APEC member economies may submit entries. Applicants do not need to be from academic institutions.
Awards and Recognition
The top research project receives a USD 20,000 prize. Two runner-ups each earn USD 5,000. Winners are honored at an APEC Women and the Economic Forum event.
Impact of Past Winners
Past winners have generated insights into priority health topics across economies. One past project contributes to reducing maternal mortality in China through data-driven policy guidance.
Support and Partnership
Merck Healthcare sponsors the prize, emphasizing private-public cooperation in women’s health. Health and life science sectors are encouraged to help implement research solutions.
Timeline and How to Apply
Applications opened 16 February 2026. Submissions close 6 March 2026.
Why it Matters
The prize underscores that women’s health is central to economic growth and inclusion. It aims to generate actionable evidence shaping public policy and employer practices regionwide.
Source:
APEC Policy Partnership on Women and the Economy. (2026, 16 de febrero). Applications open for the 2026 APEC Healthy Women, Healthy Economies research prize. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. Recuperado de https://www.apec.org/press/news-releases/2026/0216_hwhe