The Gap in Between Startup Challenge

Deadline: Jul 14, 2025

other

partially funded

Spain

To Apply

Please visit the application link below to apply.

Opportunity Overview

The Startup Challenge of The Gap in Between is an international initiative aimed at boosting entrepreneurship as a driver of social and environmental transformation. This challenge seeks to identify and showcase startups developing innovative solutions to today’s most pressing challenges. It connects impact-driven entrepreneurs with resources, capital, and strategic allies, placing them at the center of a global conversation about building a fairer, more inclusive, regenerative, and collaborative future.

📅 Key Details

Date Published: June 25, 2025
Application Deadline: July 14, 2025
Category: Contest, Entrepreneurs
Opportunity Location: Spain
Sponsor Organization: Social Nest Foundation

🌍 Focus Areas

In 2025, the challenge focuses on three key innovation verticals:

1. Cities of Tomorrow

Smart cities
Urban planning
Climate-resilient architecture
Emergency-ready cities
Bioconstruction
Energy justice
Energy transition
Mobility and transport
Digital infrastructure for sustainable cities
Urban governance and citizenship
Sustainable urban life
Future housing

2. From Extraction to Regeneration

Regenerative agriculture
Composting
Sustainable protein alternatives
Rural empowerment
Supply chains
Reforestation
Agroforestry
AgTech
Biodiversity
Regenerative materials

3. Socio-Economic Resilience

Ethical AI
Impact investing
Green funds
Rural digitalization
Digital literacy
Inclusive design
Mental wellbeing
Community and neighborhood cohesion
Art for social change
Youth-led change
Crisis-resilient infrastructures
Social protection
Cultural and religious harmony

🏆 Benefits

For the 20 Early Stage semifinalists and 10 Growth Stage finalists, the following benefits are offered:

Personalized physical booths at the event
Early Stage Winner: €5,000
Growth Stage Winner: €10,000
Access to a network of investors, mentors, and top-tier events (e.g., 4YFN, South Summit)
Matchmaking with key ecosystem players

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To participate, startups must:

Be legally incorporated for at least one year.
Have a validated MVP and a sustainable business model.
Fit within one of the Challenge’s thematic verticals.
Generate positive social or environmental impact.

🚀 Application Process

1. Early Stage Startups

Application

Complete an online form providing key information about the solution, business model, team, and vision.

Evaluation and Initial Selection

A panel of experts from Social Nest and ecosystem partners will assess the applications.
Up to 20 Early Stage semifinalists will be selected, each receiving a physical booth at the event.

Acceleration Program

The semifinalists will participate in a three-week online acceleration program (September 10–26, 2025), including training sessions, tailored mentoring, and pitch development.

Mid-Stage Evaluation

Deliverables and progress will be assessed, and 10 finalists will be selected to pitch at the event and compete for the category prize.

Pitch Competition

The 10 finalists will present their pitch to an expert jury during the event on October 21, 2025.
One winner will be chosen and awarded a €5,000 prize.

2. Growth Stage Startups

Application

Complete the same online form, detailing the proposal, traction metrics, business model, impact, and team.

Direct Selection

The evaluation committee will select 10 finalists directly based on their level of development and alignment with the Challenge criteria.

Pitch Competition

The 10 finalists will pitch their projects on October 21, 2025, competing for the €10,000 prize for Best Growth Stage Startup.

📅 Important Dates

Application Deadline: July 14, 2025
Acceleration Program: September 10–26, 2025
Pitch Competition: October 21, 2025

🌐 Application Portal

View more details about The Gap in Between Startup Challenge.
Apply directly via this link.

This challenge is a unique opportunity for startups to showcase their innovative solutions, gain access to valuable resources, and make a meaningful impact on the world. Don’t miss out—apply now!

Benefits

Personalized physical booths at the event
Early Stage Winner: €5,000
Growth Stage Winner: €10,000
Access to a network of investors, mentors, and top-tier events (4YFN, South Summit, etc.)
Matchmaking with key ecosystem players

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