Singtel will support social impact startups with new program

Photo credit: Terence Lee.

Do-gooding certainly feels good, but can it be a successful business? A growing number of social entrepreneurs in Singapore and around the region seem to think so. The same goes for incubators like Tech For Good that focus on helping such companies grow.

The six-month program is aimed at young entrepreneurs and startups that focus on social impact.

Singaporean telco Singtel wants to make its own mark in that space with Future Makers. The six-month program is aimed at young entrepreneurs and startups that focus on social impact. Startups have until August 14 2016 to apply.

Up to seven startups will be accepted into the program and will receive funding of up to US$15,000 each. As with many other similar corporate initiatives, participants will have access to mentoring, workshops, and networking with industry players and investors. Singtel will also offer ways to market for promising ideas.

“Social impact start-ups want to bring about meaningful and impactful change to society,” Singtel’s vice president of group corporate social responsibility, Andrew Buay, says in a statement.

“However, roadblocks in funding support, lack of experience in commercializing business ideas sustainably, and missed partnership opportunities can often hamstring even the best idea. Through Singtel Future Makers, we want to play a part to help them turn their ideas into reality,” he adds.

Converted from Singapore dollars. US$1 = S$1.35