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Impact is a Web Summit movement that shines a light on startups actively creating positive change for their industries, communities, and the planet through the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Applications for the programme are now open
To submit your application, please complete this form.
How are Impact startups selected?
How are Impact startups selected?
Impact startups are selected based on their innovation in pursuit of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – 17 objectives in the fight against poverty, hunger, inequality, environmental degradation and climate change.
Impact startups must be acting on one or more of these goals in a way that could have a far-reaching effect within their industry and beyond.
Please note that applications to take part in the Impact program are subject to review.
FAQ
FAQ
Is my company an Impact startup?
Is my company an Impact startup?
Impact startups at Web Summit are emerging companies actively pursuing one or more of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We’re looking for startups driving real, meaningful change in their industry, local communities, or the planet.
We are committed to giving these startups an equitable opportunity to showcase their products and elevate their brand awareness across our events.
To be considered, please complete the application form before selecting ‘Confirm for printing’ on your exhibition profile. Our Impact team will then review your application to determine eligibility.
What are the benefits of being an Impact startup?
What are the benefits of being an Impact startup?
There are many benefits to becoming an Impact startup.
Knowledge sharing: The Web Summit 2026 team offers focused content for Impact startups, including Impact-specific Startup Sessions and Mentor Hours.
Strategic exposure: Stand out from the crowd with our Impact startup badge, which you can share on your social channels.
Impact Startup Showcase: The opportunity to apply to Startup Showcase. This activation shines the spotlight on your startup's idea. Expect quickfire presentations, with selected startups showcasing their solutions to the biggest issues in their fields.
Please note: Participation in Startup activations, such as Startup Showcase and Mentor Hours, involves a selection process and applying does not ensure participation.
Our brand and sustainability
Our brand and sustainability
Web Summit 2026 stands at the forefront of the world’s latest developments and discoveries. We are proud to commit to the UN SDGs – which are at the core of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development – as guiding principles for our own sustainability initiatives.
The Earthshot Prize
In 2021, we were invited for the first time to contribute to Earthshot as nominators. We were honoured to be named as Earthshot nominators again for 2026.
This sustainability prize will continue throughout this decade, providing 50 solutions to the world’s greatest environmental problems by 2030. The Earthshot prize will award GB£1 million to the winners of each of the five Earthshot categories every year, with shortlisted candidates also receiving support and contacts to help scale. You can find out more here.
We use Web Summit's Impact startup programme to discover the entrepreneurs and emerging companies that can make key contributions to the aims of Earthshot. Through Earthshot, our exciting startups have a better opportunity to share their vision of the future with the world.
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