September 16, 2024
NN Group and Rubio partner to boost Europe’s most promising early-stage people tech startups
International financial services company NN Group and Rubio today announce a unique collaboration with the launch of the NN Social Innovation Startup Award. This new pitch event, which will take place during Impact Week, is designed to discover and support Europe’s and Japan’s early-stage people tech startups, fostering collaboration and innovation. The NN Social Innovation Startup Award invites startups from 11 countries focusing on equal opportunities and mental and physical well-being to apply. Finalists will receive a supporting grant of €50,000, while the winner will be awarded €100,000, along with tailored support and a year-long venture development program.
Collaboration between corporate and venture capital
The NN Social Innovation Startup Award offers not only financial support but also access to a broad network of experts, mentors, an investor-readiness program and a potential investor. The focus is on empowering entrepreneurs in NN markets (Belgium, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Romania, Spain, Turkey, and Japan) who are developing innovative solutions to complex social challenges. By combining corporate strength and venture capital, NN Group and Rubio are offering complementary expertise to accelerate societal solutions and innovation in this space.
A movement to empower people through innovation
Fleur Hudig Head of Corporate Citizenship at NN Group, remarks: “At NN, we are committed to making a positive impact in society. That’s why we created the NN Social Innovation Fund. Our fund champions early-stage social enterprises that provide solutions for improving people’s financial, physical, and/or mental well-being. By partnering with Rubio Impact Ventures, we’re not only providing financial support but also combining our resources to ensure these start-ups receive the guidance and support they need to maximize their potential and create lasting societal impact.”
Driving systemic change
Ilonka Jankovich, Venture Partner at Rubio Impact Ventures, emphasizes the importance of providing both funding and support to early-stage startups: “Early-stage people tech startups focused on equal opportunities, mental and physical well-being are key to driving systemic change. However, many of these startups lack the financial resources and support necessary to reach their full potential. The support we’re offering in collaboration with NN Group could truly be a game-changer for several impactful startups, especially given the breadth of this initiative across various countries in Europe.
I am eager to see the innovative solutions that will emerge and look forward to announcing the winners on November 28th during Impact Week in Bilbao. This initiative represents a significant step forward in empowering social enterprises to make a lasting difference.”
Apply now!
Startups interested in participating in the NN Social Innovation Startup Award can apply until October 15, 2024. To be eligible, startups must focus on advancing equal education, sustainable livelihoods, and well-being. For more information on application criteria and to submit your application, please visit https://socialinnovationaward.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your innovative solution and make a significant contribution to social impact.
