Opportunities
Strive Community Innovation Fund 2023
Big ideas for small businesses
Seeking innovative solutions that support small businesses’ growth in the areas of Environmental Sustainability and Data for Market Access.
The application period is now closed.
Overview
Innovative solutions to support small business growth at scale
This fund invites proposals for digital and data-first solutions that support small businesses in two specific areas:
- Data for Market Access: Using data to enable small businesses to reach more customers
- Environmental Sustainability: Driving positive impact for small businesses and the environment
Read more about the areas of focus using the links above.
Successful applicants will receive up to $150,000 to develop and test their solutions over a 12- to 18-month period.
What will Strive Community Innovation Fund winners receive?
Strive Community Innovation Fund winners have the opportunity to build and test innovative and experimental solutions that they may not have otherwise been able to pursue. In addition to funding, they have access to Strive Community and Mastercard expertise, as well as a great opportunity for exposure and publicity.
Funding
Mentorship
Visibility
Who should apply?
Applicants can be startups, established companies, nonprofits, social enterprises, academic institutions, or other organization types. Strive Community does not fund government entities. Projects must be implemented outside of the USA and Canada. Applicants can apply as single entities or as a consortium of multiple organizations. See more details in the Eligibility Criteria.
What are we looking for?
We are looking to test new products, features, services, and business models that help organizations better support small businesses; we will not consider any proposals that are seeking funding for the scale up of business-as-usual solutions. Applying entities must have been operational for at least one year prior to applying. We are seeking solutions that have potential for impact at scale. We will not fund the development or delivery of training programs.
Want to learn more?
Have a look at our FAQs.