Calling all social innovators and change-makers to build a better future with us

BCG X - the tech build and design unit of BCG - is offering a full team of tech, design and business talent to accelerate your impact.
We don’t take equity, and it's free.
Take your Social Impact initiative to the next level!
Applications closed
on 18th of May 2023
We are reviewing submissions

Who is this program for?

Innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders from start-ups, corporations, and NGOs

We invite those who want to make a positive impact in this world but need an extra helping hand and the resources to do so. We are looking for initiatives that have already taken the first steps and looked deeply into the domain in which they operate.

Selection criteria

CONCEPT FIT

Your initiative addresses this year's themes: building a resilient future for people and / or planet

Identifiable opportunity to generate measurable impact in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals

TEAM FIT

You have a team of at least 2 members – committed full time

You can show expertise to implement and grow initiative

BCG X FIT

You are willing to work jointly with BCG X in an agile way

Clear match between your needs and BCG X talent and methodology

Able to work – remotely or face-to-face - together with teams located in one of the European BCG X hubs (Berlin, London, Paris) even if you are not based in these cities

THEME FOR THIS CYCLE:

Building a more resilient future

2023 is a year to build more resilient, robust systems that bring a positive impact on our planet – and the people living on it.  For this reason, we have decided to invest this year's resources to tackle some key themes to make our world more resilient, equitable and future-proof. In particular, we are seeking applications for initiatives working towards:

PEOPLE

Help give individuals and communities financial education and access to resources; enable them to make informed financial decisions and achieve economic stability.

Equip people with knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world, promoting lifelong learning and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Ensure access to the same level of health and well-being, regardless of socio-economic status, race or ethnicity, and other factors that may create disparities.

Address root causes of poverty and hunger, by providing access to nutritious food, empowering communities through job training and education, and creating sustainable economic systems that support equitable growth.

PLANET

Transition towards renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydropower, to mitigate climate change and promote a sustainable future for all.

Advocate for the rights of those disproportionately affected by climate change, such as marginalized communities, and work towards solutions that address systemic injustices that contribute to climate crisis.

Protect diversity of life on our planet, from wildlife and ecosystems to natural resources, by promoting sustainable land use practices, conservation efforts, and responsible consumption.

Enable job creation that contribute to the transition to a sustainable economy, such as those in renewable energy, conservation, and sustainable agriculture, while also promoting social and economic equity.

What the program offers

Dedicated multidisciplinary team

Work closely for 8-12 weeks alongside our full-time expert BCG X team of 5-10 people, ranging from design to engineering and business

Expert advisory

Take advantage of our expertise in venture building. Work side-by-side with senior leaders with an extensive track record of product and venture building across a multitude of industries and sectors

Network and exposure

Get connected with corporate partners, industry experts and investors, and gain exposure through our marketing activities

...and workspace – if you need it

Join us with your team at one of our hubs in Berlin, London or Paris, and access our infrastructure and tools – or work with us remotely if that suits you best

Application process overview

Step 1

Submit your application

Tell us about your social initiative by filling out the application form. Add a short intro video to introduce your team – so we can get to know you better already. We want to know why this is important to you, society, and the planet.

Step 2

Work with a coach to fine-tune

The top 10 initiatives will have the opportunity to be reviewed in a bigger group to fine-tune their pitch. We will pair you with a dedicated coach from BCG X to help.

Step 3

Pitch your initiative to the entire BCG X teams across Europe, Middle East & Africa

Top initiatives will be invited to pitch to the entire BCG X teams across EMESA region¹. We will tally the votes and decide the best-fitting 2-3 initiatives afterwards.

¹EMESA = Europe, Middle East, South America and Africa

Step 4

Align on desired outcomes

After the announcement of the winner, we will closely align on the desired outcome, timeline, and staffing of the program to make sure that the team can kick off as soon as possible.

Applications closed on 18th of May 2023
Coaching sessions happening in June 2023
Pitching sessions scheduled for 6 July 2023
Winners announced in July 2023

Who we already worked with

OTHER IMPACT CASES DONE AT BCG X INCLUDE