NN Group and Rubio boost early-stage people tech startups

NN Group and impact venture fund Rubio Impact Ventures, announced their collaboration with the launch of the NN Social Innovation Startup Awards. This new pitch event that takes place during Impact Week Europe, is designed to discover and support Europe’s and Japan’s early-stage people tech start-ups, fostering collaboration and innovation. Start-ups from 11 countries focused on equal opportunities and mental and physical well-being are invited to apply for the NN Social Innovation Startup Awards. Finalists will receive a supporting grant of EUR 50,000, while the winner will receive a EUR 100,000 supporting grant, along with tailored support and a year-long venture development programme.

Collaboration between corporate and venture capital

The award offers not only financial support but also access to a broad network of experts, mentors, an investor-readiness programme 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 maximise their potential and create lasting societal impact.’

Driving systemic change

Ilonka Jankovich, Venture Partner at Rubio Impact Ventures, emphasises the importance of providing both funding and support to early-stage start-ups: ‘Early-stage people tech start-ups focused on equal opportunities, mental and physical well-being are key to driving systemic change. However, many of these start-ups 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 start-ups, 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 28 November during Impact Week Europe in Bilbao. This initiative represents a significant step forward in empowering social enterprises to make a lasting difference.’

Apply now!

Start-ups interested in participating in the NN Social Innovation Startup Awards can apply until 15 October 2024. To be eligible, start-ups must focus on advancing equal education, sustainable livelihoods and well-being. For more information on application criteria and to submit your application: https://www.socialinnovationaward.com/. Do not miss this opportunity to showcase your innovative solution and make a significant contribution to social impact across Europe and Japan.