Empowering Early-Stage Enterprises for a Resilient Future

The Swiss Re Foundation's Shine program offers a unique opportunity for early-stage social enterprises in the USA focused on climate solutions and healthcare access. This grant aligns directly with the Foundation's mission to support social innovators in developing scalable business models that maximize social impact. The program aims to translate innovative ideas into financially viable businesses, ultimately contributing to a more resilient society. The target beneficiaries are founders of early-stage enterprises who offer market-based solutions. The program is designed for "changemakers" with a strong sense of purpose, a nuanced understanding of social or environmental challenges, and a proof of concept for their solution. The impact goals are to support these entrepreneurs in accelerating their professional and personal development, scaling their solutions, and fostering connections within the social entrepreneurial ecosystem. Shine prioritizes applicants whose impact areas align with the Swiss Re Foundation’s supported topics: nature-based solutions in coastal & urban areas, disaster risk reduction, transformation to Net-Zero (circular economy solutions), access to health, and healthy nutrition. The program's strategic priorities are evident in its three phases: an application process for selecting innovators, an action learning program, and impact monitoring. Expected outcomes include the development of a focused strategy, a viable financial and execution plan, and the scaling of solutions. Participants are partnered with Swiss Re experts, leadership, and business coaches, providing hands-on support and mentoring. A significant measurable result is the opportunity to win a financial award of up to USD 40,000 to fuel enterprise growth after completing the program, further enabling the scaling of their impact. This directly supports the Foundation's theory of change by empowering social innovators to create sustainable solutions that address critical global challenges.