Fifteen finalists have been selected for the 2021 edition of the Social Innovation Tournament, the flagship initiative of the Institute’s Social Programme recognising and supporting Europe’s best social entrepreneurs.

From innovative solutions for kidney failure, or multi-organ treatment methods to an aero-generator which needs no blades, or a sustainable alternative to leather, the finalists’ primary purpose is to generate a social, ethical or environmental impact. They are coming from Denmark, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain and Sweden, and were selected from an outstanding group of 280 candidates in 28 countries, making the work of the EIB Group experts very challenging.

The 15 high impact ventures, from nine countries, will participate in a tailor-made training programme (mentoring bootcamp, e-training on pitching, one-to-one coaching sessions) to provide them with the necessary guidance to finalise their proposals. This will prepare them for the pitching competition – taking place this year in Lisbon on 7 October – in which they will present and defend their project before a jury of social innovation specialists from the academic and business worlds.

Four prizes will be awarded: General Category and Special Category 1st and 2nd Prizes of €75,000 and €30,000 respectively and an Audience Choice Award of €10,000. This year, the Special Category Prizes will go to projects focusing on sustainable living. All prizes have been increased to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Social Innovation Tournament.

Finalists from all SIT editions become members of the SIT Alumni Network. As such, they are able to benefit from numerous training opportunities, an innovation grants programme, and attend conferences around Europe, networking with investors, venture philanthropists and foundations that can help them scale their impact.