We live in fascinating, yet demanding, times when it comes to technology and global development. Better solutions are needed for both social and environmental challenges, as outlined by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Technology not only has the potential to solve some of these challenges but often, also the scalability needed to meet their magnitude, with the potential of large-scale positive impact on our society and environment.
Great potential for impact driven tech entrepreneurs
The UN SDGs not only present our global challenges, but also open up significant business opportunities. A worldwide growing demand for better and more sustainable solutions creates great potential for impact driven tech entrepreneurs to develop profitable businesses while creating a better world for all.
According to the Business and Sustainable Development Commission, the SDGs open up global business opportunities of more than USD 12 trillion, with the potential to create 380 million jobs by 2030. Agriculture, health, education, construction, food, waste management and transport are just a few examples of sectors where Tech for Impact solutions have great potential.
Success Stories & Switzerland as a leading hub for impact driven tech
Looking at the success of former SEIF Award Tech for Impact winners Carbon Delta (successfully acquired by MSCI), Pristem (raised CHF 14 million), or this years finalist Planted (raised CHF 7 million in their recent seed round), we should be even more encouraged to foster the Tech for Impact movement in Switzerland and Europe. Making Switzerland a leading hub for impact driven tech ventures.
What is next?
Of course, technology alone may not be the answer to all issues at hand, but how we choose to develop and implement tech solutions, today and in the coming years, will have a significant impact on our future. This brings opportunities as well as challenges, and it is crucial to proactively foster a positive Tech for Impact movement to make sure we are going in the right direction.
At SEIF, we are currently developing new programs and investing opportunities with a Tech for Impact focus. Get in touch if you want to be part of the change, supporting the leading companies of tomorrow.