On a Mission to Create Social Impact Unicorns - Leslie Labruto, Founding Director of 100x Impact Accelerator

In episode 195 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I speak with Leslie Labruto, Founding Director of 100x Impact Accelerator, on funding and advising early stage social enterprises to create social impact unicorns.In today's rapidly evolving world, social enterprises and impact-focused organizations play a crucial role in driving positive change. However, many of these ventures face numerous challenges when it comes to scaling their impact. That's where 100x Impact Accelerator steps in, providing a world-class platform to empower radical thinkers and amplify their impact at an unprecedented scale.Defining the EndgameThe 100x Impact Accelerator recognizes that impactful solutions require a comprehensive approach beyond traditional fundraising. By working together with social entrepreneurs, the accelerator aims to define the endgame—the ultimate goal that will bring about the most significant positive change. Rather than focusing solely on financial support, 100x Impact Accelerator fosters tangible, results-driven models such as government adoption, digitization, and open-source solutions.Exceptional Research and Access to PolicymakersOne of the key strengths of 100x Impact Accelerator is its emphasis on evidence-based research. Through access to exceptional research resources, social enterprises can build their strategies on a solid foundation. Moreover, the accelerator provides an invaluable connection to policymakers, enabling ventures to navigate regulatory landscapes and create substantial impact at scale. This unique combination of research and policymaker access sets the stage for innovative solutions to address pressing social challenges.Catalytic Capital, Global Connections, and Dedicated SupportThe 100x Impact Accelerator offers catalytic capital, injecting £150,000 into selected ventures. This funding serves as a catalyst for further growth, enabling social entrepreneurs to expand their operations and increase their impact. Additionally, participants benefit from global connections, accessing a network of like-minded social entrepreneurs and mentors. The world-class support and bespoke mentoring provided throughout the program empower ventures to overcome hurdles, refine strategies, and unlock their full potential.Impact Accelerator ProgramThe heart of 100x Impact Accelerator is the 12-week Impact Accelerator program. During this intensive period, selected ventures receive specialized guidance, resources, and mentorship tailored to their unique needs. The program creates a collaborative environment where cohorts of like-minded social entrepreneurs can learn from each other, share experiences, and foster meaningful collaborations. At the end of the program, the Summit Day celebration brings together participants, mentors, and stakeholders to celebrate accomplishments and forge lasting connections.Eligibility and Selection CriteriaThe 100x Impact Accelerator welcomes applications from impact-first organizations, including registered charities, non-profits, and social enterprises. To be eligible, ventures should be operating in one of the eight Impact Areas identified by the accelerator. They should have a proven track record of driving positive change, reaching at least 1,000 customers or constituents through direct or indirect models. Additionally, ventures should have a team of four or more full-time paid employees and have raised at least USD 100,000 in capital from any source.Flexible and Impact-First FundingThe 100x Impact Accelerator offers flexible, impact-first funding to selected ventures. The funding provided comes in the form of catalytic grants and ensuring that financial support aligns with the unique needs of each social enterprise. Upon completing the accelerator program, ventures that have achieved extraordinary impact may be eligible for follow-on funding, further supporting their growth and sustainability.The 100x Accelerator represents a powerful force in driving impactful change at scale. By providing exceptional research, access to policymakers, catalytic capital, and world-class support, the accelerator empowers social entrepreneurs to take their ventures to new heights. Through its Impact Accelerator program and long-term alumni membership, 100x Impact Accelerator fosters a vibrant community of innovators who are dedicated to creating a better world. If you are an impact-first organization ready to take the next big leap, the 100x Accelerator could be your catalyst for driving extraordinary and outsized impact.To learn more about 100x Impact Accelerator and start your application, visit their website: www.100ximpact.org