Applications for social impact award 2026 are officially open!
- Impact Hub Slovenia
Ljubljana, 23 April 2026 — The Slovenian Youth Agency (SLOAM) and Impact Hub Slovenia are announcing the launch of the sixth season of the international Social Impact Award (SIA) programme in Slovenia. The programme empowers young entrepreneurs working in the field of positive social and environmental impact to turn their ideas into lasting societal change and build a future on their own terms.
“The sixth season of the Social Impact Award in Slovenia confirms that young people not only recognise the challenges in their environment, but also actively respond to them with bold and sustainable solutions. We are looking for projects that push boundaries and demonstrate that entrepreneurship in the hands of young people truly has the power to create change,” emphasises Gal Krajnčič, Coordinator of Social Impact Award Slovenia 2026.
WHAT IS THE SOCIAL IMPACT AWARD?
The Social Impact Award is an international programme for young people who are shaping a better future through innovation and entrepreneurship. After five successful years, during which more than 250 individuals developed over 100 bold projects — ranging from sustainable food to digital inclusion — SIA, now in its sixth season in Slovenia, remains a key launchpad for new social change. The programme is entirely free of charge for participants.
WHO CAN APPLY?
- Young people aged 15 to 30 inspired by the world of entrepreneurship
- Teams or individuals with an idea or project addressing social or environmental challenges
- Creatives who believe that entrepreneurship is a key tool for positive societal change
WHY JOIN?
- 1-to-1 mentoring: Individual support from experts to help turn ideas into reality
- Practical workshops: Free training on business model development, sustainability, and funding opportunities
- Global network: Access to an international community and connections with successful social entrepreneurs
- Financial boost: An opportunity to secure cash prizes and gain access to a substantial award pool designed to support the further development and growth of your idea.
PROGRAMME TIMELINE
The programme will run from May to September 2026, with most activities happening over the summer, when young people have more time to focus on developing their ideas. The best ideas will be selected for the final stage, where participants will benefit from in-depth incubation, production of a pitch video, and intensive mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and other experts.
The programme will conclude with a final presentation of ideas to an expert jury, accompanied by a nationwide online public vote to determine the winners of the Social Impact Award Slovenia 2026.
KEY DATES (DETAILS TO FOLLOW):
- Applications open: 22 April 2026
- Application deadline: 15 May 2026
- Announcement of selected teams: 25 May 2026
- Incubation phase: 1 June–31 August 2026
- Final event: 18 September 2026
WHO CAN APPLY?
The application form and all detailed information are available on the website.
For additional questions, please contact: [email protected].
PROGRAMME TIMELINE
The programme will run from May to September 2026, with most activities happening over the summer, when young people have more time to focus on developing their ideas. The best ideas will be selected for the final stage, where participants will benefit from in-depth incubation, production of a pitch video, and intensive mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and other experts.
The programme will conclude with a final presentation of ideas to an expert jury, accompanied by a nationwide online public vote to determine the winners of the Social Impact Award Slovenia 2026.
