The competitiveness of a company and the health of the communities around it are mutually dependent. That’s why in 2016 Lilly Spain joined forces with UnLtd Spain to develop Emprende inHealth, an innovative programme that supports six social entrepreneurs in developing their business projects in the health sector. Through the programme, participants receive training, advice, mentoring and networking for ten months, as well as a seed capital of €5,000 to convert their initiatives into sustainable businesses.

The initiative supported participants in significantly evolving fundamental areas of their businesses, increasing the total income of the six start-ups that took part in the first edition from €500 to €88,936 per year. Concerning the health and employment of Spanish citizens, the programme improved the lives of more than 14,500 people in areas such as diabetes, fibromyalgia, albinism and functional diversity. Moreover, the companies’ growth led to the creation of 23 jobs in the healthcare sector in 2017.

Lilly employees had the opportunity to accompany the entrepreneurs on their journey, supporting and advising them on technical aspects that are part of their daily work. This collaboration encourages a culture of entrepreneurship, curiosity and innovation. 90% of participating employees said that their involvement enriched them professionally.

This is what shared value projects are about, an exchange of passion and knowledge where everyone benefits: the social entrepreneurs, Lilly employees and most importantly, society. Due to the success of the first two rounds, the programme will start its third edition in the coming weeks.

Read more:

• Real time updates at #EmprendeInHealth on Twitter