The Sage Impact Entrepreneurship Program, created through a collaboration between the Sage Foundation and Village Capital, is now accepting applications for its 2026 intake.

The initiative supports early-stage startups that are building solutions at the crossroads of environmental sustainability, social equity, and economic inclusion.

The program is open to founders based in the UK, France, Germany, Portugal, and Spain, with applications closing on January 5, 2026. A two-day program summit is scheduled for June 11–12, 2026 in London.

About the Program

Now entering its next cycle, the program seeks to strengthen mission-driven startups by offering tailored guidance, strategic support, and access to a broad network of partners. Twelve ventures will join the Core Cohort, receiving intensive mentoring, grant funding, and hands-on investment readiness training. Another fifteen startups will be included in the Community Cohort, gaining access to useful tools, visibility, and peer networks.

All selected participants—across both cohorts—will benefit from two years of continued backing to help grow their solutions and expand their impact.

Priority Themes

Startups operating in the following areas are encouraged to apply:

• Clean and renewable energy

• Biodiversity and nature-based solutions

• Sustainable and low-carbon mobility

• Circular economy and resource recovery

• Green and ethical manufacturing

• Health systems that can adapt to climate impacts

• Climate finance and insurance innovation

• Sustainable food and agriculture

• Social equity and environmental justice

• Climate intelligence and data solutions

Startups located near Sage’s offices—London, Paris, Frankfurt, Lisbon, and Barcelona—may receive added consideration. Founders who do not meet every criterion are still encouraged to apply, as both cohorts are designed to support a range of early-stage companies.

Why This Matters

The program aims to elevate ventures that are tackling some of the most urgent environmental and social challenges facing Europe. As climate impacts worsen—stretching from extreme weather to public-health risks—there is a clear need for innovative, market-driven solutions. By backing founders at an early stage, the initiative helps accelerate ideas that can strengthen communities, reduce emissions, and create green economic opportunities.