A total of 85 social projects participated in the call, demonstrating that the emerging ecosystem of social entrepreneurs in Spain continues to grow. At FdF Impacto, we are thrilled to witness this avalanche of innovative initiatives, all with a common goal: to contribute to the improvement of our society. Below, you can enjoy a summary video of the Demo Day:
What is an Impact Foundations Fund?
Con over 30 foundations which are already part of, FdF Impacto is a pioneering initiative in Spain, the objective of which is offer to foundations and other non-profit entities, the knowledge and the necessary support to delve into the world of impact investing and Venture Philanthropy with certainty and confidence. Its aim is to highlight that contributing to societal improvement and achieving financial returns are compatible.
One of the fundamental pillars of this initiative is the collaborative learning and co-investment in projects that are in stages where funding is scarce. Over these years we have realised that support in the early stages of project development can be crucial for its long-term success. Therefore, our intention is to continue providing resources and assistance to those social entrepreneurs who are in the early stages of their journey, where financial and strategic support can make a significant difference.
What was the meeting about?
The day began with Peter Cafferkey, one of the members of Impact Europe, who spoke to us about the important role of foundations in impact investing. Following this, we heard from “speech” from the seven finalists, who, in truth, made it very difficult to make a final decision. We heard Guille from Help me3D, a Spanish entity that designs, manufactures and delivers 3D arms to amputees worldwide, free of charge. Also to Isabel, from Bleta, a tablet for older people seeking to break down the digital barriers they face with current technology. And Alba from Cartes, social enterprise that recovers and treats non-organic waste for the creation of objects.
And then came the most anticipated moment of the day, the recognition of the four winners of this call for entries, whom we are incredibly proud to be able to support:
Filantrópico: A non-profit social enterprise that produces 100% Arabica speciality coffee. It is shade-grown, with no capsules or bags, and uses a circular packaging system. Furthermore, all its revenue is reinvested in the project and in generating social impact, and a large proportion of the workforce are people with disabilities.
Mixed: A non-profit social enterprise offering a training and socio-employment inclusion pathway in the HORECA (Hotels, Restaurants, and Catering) sector. It is aimed at residents of Barcelona who are at risk of social exclusion, particularly migrants in an irregular administrative situation. They currently have 4 restaurants in Barcelona.
Soulém: It is a social enterprise that strives to transform the lives of brave women who have survived violence in all its forms, including trafficking and forced migration. To achieve this, they help them specialise in different traditional and essentially artisanal trades that they have previously learned.
Vacapop: It is a free mobile app where you can post and find advertisements for buying and selling livestock and related items. They provide cattle farmers with a space to publish their livestock offers, as well as to buy, and where buying and selling transactions can be carried out immediately.
Finally, we enjoyed the round table discussion. “Can you start a business and create impact?” where distinguished speakers such as Raúl Sánchez, PhD from COFIDES, Ana Dubois from Ashoka Spain, Jose Alfredo Martín Piñas from apadrinaunolivo.org, and Rebeca Pastor Berezo from Nesi Forum debated. A very enriching discussion that left us all reflecting on the power of social entrepreneurship.
“Social entrepreneurship comes in to solve things that the administration isn't managing to reach, which is why there should be greater collaboration between the two.” José Alfredo Martín.
Looking to the future, we reaffirm our commitment to continue supporting and fostering social entrepreneurship in Spain and encourage more foundations and non-profit organisations, that are looking to innovate in how they solve social problems, to join FdF Impacto.
