Selection criteria
the NN Group and Rubio Impact Ventures
We’re backing early-stage, tech-driven startups with a clear mission—and the potential to scale.
Mission-first
Your venture improves mental, physical, or financial well-being for whom this is under pressure or at risk, or creates equal opportunities
Tech-enabled
You use technology as a key enabler—through a live product or validated proof of concept.
Impact-driven
Your solution creates measurable, positive change for individuals and society.
Impact-driven
Your solution creates measurable, positive change for individuals and society.
Scalable
Your business model balances impact and commercial growth potential.
Reach
You’re operating in one or more of these countries: Belgium, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Romania, Spain or Japan.
What happened last year?
In 2024, the award drew hundreds of applications from 17 countries. The winner, The Linghos from Poland, developed an AI-powered speech therapy platform that makes care for young children more engaging and accessible. Since winning, the team has accelerated growth, entered new markets, and secured key partnerships. The runners-up - Whispp from the Netherlands, with their AI-powered app that unlocks clear communication for those with impaired speech, and Bugeto from Poland, who empowers a generation with vital financial literacy through immersive simulations - demonstrated the transformative power of technology to address critical societal needs.
In 2024, the award drew hundreds of applications from 17 countries. The winner, The Linghos from Poland, developed an AI-powered speech therapy platform that makes care for young children more engaging and accessible. Since winning, the team has accelerated growth, entered new markets, and secured key partnerships.
“The award gave us more than recognition—it gave us the confidence and backing to grow faster, and with more focus. We gained access to people who understood both our mission and our business potential, and that combination is rare. Since winning, we’ve been able to expand into new markets, refine our go-to-market strategy, and reach more children with our technology. The impact is not just in numbers—it’s in the stories of kids gaining confidence, and parents finally feeling supported,” says co-founder Mariusz Pitura of The Linghos.
The other three finalists— ChatLicense, Amaia, and Merova Health—have each gone on to grow their reach, secure partnerships, and scale their solutions across Europe. Together, they show what’s possible when well-being meets technology—and when early-stage innovation gets the support it deserves.
"The impact is not just in numbers—it’s in the stories of kids gaining confidence, and parents finally feeling supported,”
co-founder Mariusz Pitura of The Linghos.
"The impact is not just in numbers—it’s in the stories of kids gaining confidence, and parents finally feeling supported,”
co-founder Mariusz Pitura of The Linghos.