[Madrid, February 8, 2025] – Bridge for Billions, in collaboration with EDP and Ashoka, is excited to announce the launch of the second edition of the EDP Hope Fund Investment Program. Designed to support social entrepreneurs driving a just and inclusive energy transition, this program equips participants with specialized mentorship, strategic training, and the opportunity to secure investment from EDP.
Building on the success of the first edition, which provided funding and investment readiness training to high-impact social enterprises, the program is set to scale its reach and impact in 2025.
Empowering entrepreneurs for a just energy transition
The EDP Hope Fund Investment Program was created to address key challenges faced by social entrepreneurs in the energy sector, including:
- Limited access to strategic business development and investment readiness training.
- Difficulty navigating investor relationships and securing funding for scaling impact.
- The need for clear financial strategies and measurable social and environmental outcomes.
Through this program, entrepreneurs will gain essential tools to communicate their impact, refine their financial strategies, and present a compelling case for investment.
A joint commitment to sustainable impact
EDP, a global leader in energy transition, launched the Hope Fund with the mission to ensure no one is left behind in the shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions. Together with Ashoka and Bridge for Billions, this initiative fosters the development of social enterprises that are making a tangible difference in underserved communities.
Selected participants will receive:
- hands-on investment readiness training
- one-on-one and group mentorship
- the opportunity to pitch their businesses to the EDP investment committee.
All participants will gain invaluable insights, mentorship, and skills to attract future funding opportunities.
Looking ahead
The Hope Fund offers two program tracks designed for entrepreneurs at different stages of their journey:
- Incubation Program: Designed for early-stage social entrepreneurs looking to validate and build a strong foundation for their businesses. Participants will receive hands-on training, expert mentorship, and a structured framework to refine their business models.
- Investment Program: Aimed at entrepreneurs with established businesses seeking investment to scale their impact. This track provides investment readiness training, financial strategy support, and the opportunity to pitch for direct funding from EDP.
In this edition, the program aims to:
- Engage entrepreneurs from Latin America, Spain, and Portugal in a 2.5-month intensive training program.
- Provide funding of up to €500K to selected projects driving impact in clean energy, energy efficiency, upskilling for the energy transition, and environmental restoration.
- Offer mentorship from investors and industry experts who have helped businesses raise up to $3M.
- Build stronger connections between entrepreneurs, impact investors, and ecosystem leaders to foster long-term, sustainable change.
Who can apply?
The EDP Hope Fund Investment Program is open to social entrepreneurs who:
- Operate in Latin America, Spain, or Portugal, or have solutions impacting these regions.
- Work within one of the following sectors:
- Access to clean energy: Solutions that provide reliable, safe, and affordable energy to communities.
- Energy efficiency: Innovations that enhance energy efficiency and affordability.
- Upskilling and reskilling: Training programs that equip individuals with skills for the energy transition.
- Environmental restoration: Projects focused on forest and biodiversity conservation with social impact.
- Are at the growth stage, looking to refine their business models and scale their impact.
- Are committed to a fair and inclusive energy transition.
Applications now open
Applications for the Incubation Program close on March 30, 2025, while applications for the Investment Program close on May 5, 2025. Entrepreneurs ready to take their ventures to the next level are encouraged to apply.
About Bridge for Billions
Bridge for Billions is a global organization that supports entrepreneurs by providing the tools and guidance they need to turn their ideas into functional and sustainable businesses. Founded in 2015, Bridge for Billions has developed one of the largest networks of online entrepreneurship programs worldwide, focusing on accessibility and innovation. Their structured, step-by-step incubation programs connect entrepreneurs with mentors from around the world, aiding the development of viable ventures. With a mission to democratize access to entrepreneurship, Bridge for Billions has supported thousands of entrepreneurs in over 100 countries, helping to transform communities and create significant impact.
About EDP
EDP is a global energy company committed to accelerating the transition to a cleaner and more inclusive energy system. As one of the world’s leading renewable energy producers, EDP invests in innovation and sustainability, working to create positive social and environmental impact. The EDP Hope Fund reflects the company’s mission to drive long-term change by supporting entrepreneurs who are making energy accessible, efficient, and equitable for all.
About Ashoka
Ashoka is a pioneer in the field of social entrepreneurship, supporting changemakers who drive systemic impact. By connecting social entrepreneurs with resources, expertise, and networks, Ashoka fosters innovation in key sectors, including climate action, education, and economic development. Through the EDP Hope Fund, Ashoka collaborates with EDP and Bridge for Billions to equip social entrepreneurs with the knowledge and funding necessary to scale their solutions.
For more information about the program or how to get involved, please contact Stephanie Esprester, Program Manager at Bridge for Billions: stephanie@bridgeforbillions.org
