The NN Social Innovation Startup Award, powered by Rubio, is back after a successful debut in 2024. Designed to support early-stage startups using technology to improve mental, physical, or financial well-being, the award returns to spotlight innovation with purpose at The Next Web Conference on June 19 in Amsterdam.
About the NN Social Innovation Startup Award
The award is a joint initiative by NN Group, an international financial services company, and Rubio Impact Ventures, a leading Dutch impact investment fund. It aims to empower a new generation of mission-driven founders creating scalable solutions that address Europe’s growing well-being gap.
Selected startups will pitch on stage at The Next Web Conference, one of Europe’s most influential tech events. The winner will receive a €100,000 grant from a total €200,000 fund, and access to a one-year venture development program. This includes tailored mentoring, investor readiness support, and connections to a mission-aligned network of partners and backers.
“Some of the most impactful startups are built by people with deep personal insight into the problems they’re solving. But turning that into a scalable business, especially in sectors like mental health, healthcare access, or financial resilience, is incredibly hard without the right kind of support. This award was created to fill that gap. Not just with funding, but with true partnership. What we’re building is more than a pitch event — it’s a community of innovators and allies committed to changing the system, so that tech-driven solutions for well-being become the norm, not the exception,” Ilonka Jankovich, Venture Partner at Rubio Impact Ventures, comments.
Why is it important
In Europe, well-being is under pressure. Rising health disparities, increasing mental health needs, and uneven financial resilience demand innovative, inclusive solutions. This award helps founders with lived experience and deep insight into these issues gain the resources and connections needed to scale.
Last year’s winner, The Linghos — a Polish AI-powered platform improving pediatric speech therapy — has since expanded its reach with support from NN and Rubio. Runner-ups Whispp and Bugeto also joined the venture development program.
Who should apply
The call is open to early-stage tech startups across Europe building scalable and inclusive solutions to improve mental, physical, or financial well-being. If your startup is driven by impact and ready to grow, this opportunity is for you.
How to apply
Applications are open until April 30, 2025. Startups can apply via the official website: https://www.socialinnovationaward.com.
