The Social Innovation Tournament established by the EIB Institute in 2012 is the flagship initiative of its Social Programme. Encouraging entrepreneurship and new thinking to tackle social challenges is at the heart of the Social Innovation Tournament. The competition rewards innovative projects that create social value and combat social exclusion.

Fifteen finalists were selected by EIB experts from 171 candidates in 26 countries. The finalists will present their proposals at the final event, to be held in Madrid on 16 October, organised in cooperation with IE Business School.

All 15 projects will compete for the General Category 1st and 2nd Prizes of EUR 25 000 and EUR 10 000 respectively. Projects falling under the Special Category of Environment will also compete for the Special Category Prize of EUR 25 000. Some of the 15 projects, not necessarily prize winners, may receive a voucher entitling the team to benefit from subsequent coaching/mentoring services.

Over two days in July, the 15 finalists will participate in a mentoring bootcamp in Budapest, organised in cooperation with the European Entrepreneurship Foundation and Demola-Budapest, at which experts will offer practical advice aimed at improving all aspects of each project.