We invite those who want to make a positive impact in this world but need an extra helping hand and the resources to do so. We are looking for initiatives that have already taken the first steps and looked deeply into the domain in which they operate.
An initiative which addresses this year's theme
Team of at least 2 members who are committed full time
Able to work in Berlin's timezone
In 2015, world leaders agreed to a framework of 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals to get to a better world by 2030. Following this framework, we decided to invest this year's resources once again to tackle the undeniable threat to our planet embodied in the following goals:
If your initiative does not tackle these goals, do not worry. Our theme can change next year, so check back for the next round!
Take advantage of our extensive track record of product and venture building.
Accommodate your entire team at our office in Berlin Mitte, and get access to our infrastructure and tools.
Get connected with corporate partners, industry experts and investors, and gain exposure through our marketing activities.
Work closely alongside our full-time expert team of 5-15 people, ranging from design to engineering and business.
Tell us about your social initiative by filling out the application form with an intro video of the team. We want to know why this is important to you, society, and planet.
The top 10 initiatives will get the chance to be reviewed in a bigger group, and fine-tune their pitch. We will pair you with a dedicated coach from DV.
The final 3-5 initiatives will be invited to pitch their initiative to the entire BCGDV Berlin office. We will take in the votes and decide the best-fitting initiative(s) afterwards.
After the announcement of the winner, we will closely align on the desired outcome, timeline, and staffing of the program to make sure that the team can kick off as soon as possible.
Company donation marketplace for green ventures in Africa
Deposit-based system for reusable containers for restaurants and coffee shops
Helping companies build a decarbonised and sustainable economy
Using data to verify product's sustainable production claims and tracking individual supply chain
BCG Digital Ventures is an early-stage growth platform comprised of a diverse, multidisciplinary team of innovators, entrepreneurs, engineers, creatives, growth architects and investors. Together with corporations, we rapidly invent, launch, scale, and invest in revolutionary new businesses.
DV Social Ventures is an employee-led initiative. We are looking to make as much of a positive contribution to social and environmental causes as we can by leveraging our methodology, network, and talent.
The ownership of the initiative is with the applicant. BCG Digital Ventures has no intentions to take ownership of any ideas. Be aware though that there might be other applicants or other stakeholders, including DV, with similar ideas. Also, DV is a venture builder and we may have or will build ventures which operate in the same field of your submitted ideas. If you think your idea needs specific protection, please do not submit it here but rather get in touch with us. We’ll be happy to clarify.
You certainly can! Feel free to submit multiple initiatives. But make sure that your application forms are complete and comprehensive.
We are accepting applications from initiatives in different stages of maturity and will adjust our support package accordingly. If you only have a brilliant idea but haven’t done any research or work on it so far - it will not be sufficient unfortunately. We are looking for initiatives that already took the first step (at least) and have looked deeply into the domain in which they are playing. Ideally, you have a clear understanding of your vision, value proposition and USPs. Also more mature initiatives, that have already gained first traction, are more than welcome to apply!
Since we are an international company, the application process will be held in English. Nevertheless, we encourage you to submit your initiative, as we will support you in any way possible.
Idea fit: Innovative and scalable digital solution that helps protecting our planet. Clear opportunity to generate significant and measurable impact. Proof-of-concept within 6-12 weeks possible.
Team fit: A core team that will be fully dedicated to the venture during the work with DV (and ideally after). Relevant experience and expertise to support the idea.
BCG Digital Ventures fit: Set-up a social business or accelerate an existing one. Clear benefit from DV talent and methodology. Willingness to commit resources to work jointly with DV in Berlin in an agile way.
If you can't meet this submission deadline, there'll be another round in 6 months. But be aware that the theme of the program in next round might change as well.
We will run most of the process virtually including the day to day once the venture kicks off. We also want to be cautious and respectful of what everyone is comfortable with, so we would take the selected team’s preference into how we collaborate. We hope to do some of the activities and meetings in-person depending on the situation.
We look forward to hearing about your initiative!
