In a quest to find the UK’s best digital social ventures, Wayra UnLtd has called for applications to its second class. London-based Wayra UnLtd is a partnership between UnLtd, a UK-based charitable organisation committed to supporting social entrepreneurs, and Wayra, Spain-based telecom company Telefónica’s global technology start-up acceleration programme.
“We are thrilled to be announcing our second call for applicants after a very busy and successful first year of Wayra UnLtd,” said David de San Benito Torre, head of Wayra UnLtd.
“We are looking for entrepreneurs with a sustainable business model based on technology and digital solutions that can have a positive impact in the community combining both business and social profitability. We are looking forward to seeing the variety of startups that will apply for a stint in the Wayra UnLtd Academy.”
Up to nine digital social ventures have a possibility of receiving funding of up to £40,000 from Wayra UnLtd. Entrepreneurs will be provided with seed funding, space in the purpose-built Wayra UnLtd Academy in central London and access to Telefónica’s skills, expertise and 300 million customer base.
Experts from Wayra, Telefónica and UnLtd will review submitted applications. Shortlisted applicants are be invited to participate in the wayraWeek from 9th to 11th April, pitching their ideas to an independent panel, for matriculation on 12 May.
Cliff Prior, UnLtd’s chief executive, said, “We have been working closely with the businesses in cohort one with many choosing to apply for our own Big Venture Challenge, our programme through which we invest in social enterprises through a matched-funding approach.”
The deadline for applications is 11.59 PM on 9th March 2014.