FAQ

Who should apply?

Any early or growth stage for-profit company registered in Europe (including the UK), that has a social and/or ecological impact with at least one underrepresented* founder with significant shareholdership. The startups should ideally be ready for a pre-seed/seed investment round by March 2025. *An underrepresented founder has a broad definition to reflect and acknowledge the many dimensions in which our founders have had to beat the odds. This includes women, people of colour, differently-abled people, people with a migration background, members of the LGBTQAI+ community.
Do I have to have a legal entity?

Preferably yes, but it could also be registered by March 2025.
Do you take equity?

Yes, the investment will be made in exchange for equity. However, we appreciate that your business might be at a very early stage and so we prefer to invest via a SAFE note. We negotiate a valuation per company.
How many companies will you accept?

We will accept maximum 8 companies in this cohort.
What if I'm building a non-profit?

In this programme, we're focusing on businesses that have or will take a for-profit legal form.
How much will you invest?

We will invest €150.000 in a SAFE type convertible note at the start of the programme. We will provide the candidates with all details and help you understand the nitty gritty of our note as well as support you to find co-investors for this round if desired. We ask for a fixed fee of €40.000 (excl VAT) for the support we offer. We chose the model of a fixed fee over a fixed percentage of equity because we believe it's a fairer model and allows for startups with a range of valuations to accept the investment without having to worry about future implications.
How do you select participants? What are the selection criteria?

The choice of projects is made through a rigorous selection and validation process, involving the Impact Shakers team as well as external experts. We added four main pillars we’ll select on: Founder team, Problem & Market, Impact & User focus.
When and how will we participate? How is the programme structured?

We provide extensive support during 6 months consisting of masterclasses, coaching, expert connections, deep fundraising & market research support. Consider us your extended team. Our main support pillars are Founder's Wellbeing & Impact.
When will I hear back?

If you pass to the next round, we will get in touch with you for an interview. Please submit ASAP. We want to get to know you better before we agree to work together for years to come. Submitting early is definitely a good idea! We will notify all applicants before the start of the accelerator.
Can I change my application after submission?

If you believe the new information is crucial, feel free to email us at hello@impactshakers.com.
Which HQ countries can participate?

All countries on the continent Europe (including the UK).
This page will be regularly updated.

Keep an eye on it. Any other questions you need answered before applying, email us at hello@impactshakers.com.