For start-ups & companies
Take advantage of the first Swiss «for impact» network. The Impact Catalyst sees itself as an innovation pool for financing impact-oriented start-ups and companies. The program offers you various touchpoints with investors and foundations that provide access to financing solutions and valuable networking opportunities.
What exactly can you expect
- Modular and individually tailored investment readiness program (divided into 2 streams: early stage / growth phase, total of approx. 3 days)
- Support with setting up the (next) financing round
- 1:1 investor matchmaking
- Support with deal-making
- Impact Catalyst Night and final pitch to investors and foundations
- Chance of receiving prize money from the award ceremony
- Coaching credits with experts
Schedule 2026
Ready for the next growth step?
Interested startups can apply by the end of March. A high-caliber expert jury selects 12 finalists who then go through the Impact Catalyst.
The program begins with the Investment Readiness Program – a modular capacity building program that lasts approximately three days. It supports startups in refining their growth strategies, including their business and impact models, as well as financial planning for the upcoming funding round. Participation in the workshop days and expert coaching are tailored to the individual needs of the startups, with the aim of optimally preparing the investment proposal and investor pitch.
The first direct touchpoint with potential investors and foundations is speed dating, which is carried out as part of 1:1 matchmaking.
An der öffentlichen Impact Catalyst Night am 3. September in Zürich können sich die Start-ups einem breiten Publikum präsentieren. In den Showrooms werden ihre Produkte und Dienstleistungen konkret erlebbar gemacht. Ziel ist es, weitere passende Investor:innen und Stiftungen zu gewinnen und den aktiven Austausch zu stärken.
The dates for the Investment Readiness Programme are:
- Day 1: Wednesday, June 10, 2026
- Day 2: Wednesday 24 June 2026
- Day 3: Speed Dating: Thursday, July 2, 2026
Touchpoints with investors
At its core is networking with potential investors and foundations. A first point of contact is the speed dating at the end of the Investment Readiness Program. The highlight is the Impact Catalyst Night with company presentations and showrooms in the presence of our cross-sector donors.
Requirements for the application
Application window closed!
The registration deadline was March 31, 2026