We are now accepting applications for the social entrepreneurship programme “Augšup” (“Up”) with a total grant amount of EUR 56,000

On 2 April, SEB banka in partnership with the municipalities of Kekava, Marupe, Olaine, Ropazi, Sigulda and Jelgava started accepting projects for the social entrepreneurship grant programme “Up”. Existing companies as well as the authors of business ideas that have not yet been implemented can apply for financial support. Grants totaling up to EUR 56,000 will be awarded this year.

In previous years, municipalities in the vicinity of Riga participated in the programme, but this year the programme has expanded to include the Jelgava county. There will be a maximum grant amount of EUR 8,000 available to companies currently operating or planning to operate social businesses in one of the counties as well as new social business ideas. 

Arnis Škapars, a member of the Board of SEB banka: “In recent years, we have seen more and more new businesses around the world, including in Latvia, whose aim is not only to make a profit, but above all to make positive changes to society or the environment. The phenomenon of social entrepreneurship shows that profit and social purpose are not mutually exclusive factors. With the “Up” grant programme, we want to promote the viability of meaningful business ideas that are relevant to different social groups in Latvia. We encourage existing as well as aspiring entrepreneurs to apply for a grant to make positive changes to society.”

The deadline for submitting projects is 30 April. They will then be assessed by a jury of businesspeople, social entrepreneurs and representatives of the local authorities. The results will be announced in June and the winners will be honoured. 

The “Up” grant programme is being implemented for the third time. Last year, six entrepreneurs received support for their idea of social entrepreneurship.