We’ve already shared the results of the first phase of our impact evaluation: a SROI analysis that measured the overall value generated by the GoBeyond program. Now, we take a step further with a new perspective: assessing the impact of the startups that benefitted from the program between 2020 and 2024. The analysis was conducted by PROMOS Srl SB in collaboration with Social Innovation Monitor (SIM) and Social Innovation Teams (SIT), under the scientific coordination of Professor Paolo Landoni. This second phase goes beyond measuring our direct contribution: it explores how the supported startups are, in turn, creating positive effects on their communities, the environment and the sectors in which they operate.
A custom-built evaluation tool enabled the assessment of five key areas – Environment & Energy, Society & Institutions, HR & Inclusion, Leadership & Governance, Business model & Clients, plus a “materiality” area to explore each startup’s capacity to make a positive impact on the most critical issues in their industry. Examples include a startup focused on packaging, showing attention to biodegradable materials and chemical safety, and an IT startup investing in cloud data protection and responsible IP management. A total of 14 startups supported or awarded by GoBeyond were involved in the analysis, covering a wide range of sectors from technology and energy to health and education.
The analysis highlighted:
- Strong collaborations with universities and Third Sector organizations;
- A focus on governance, data protection, technology, and innovation;
- Widespread sustainable and inclusive practices, with young teams composed on average of over 40% women, clear signs of innovation and inclusion driven work environments.
All startups offer flexible hours and remote work opportunities, and half conduct formal employee satisfaction assessments at least once a year.
The picture is positive, but challenges remain:
- While many startups operate according to ethical principles, they have not yet formalized governance processes or codes of conduct;
- Non-financial reporting is still rare: only 2 startups have Benefit Corporation status, and none publish a sustainability report;
- The capacity to monitor energy use and emissions is still limited, a common barrier for early-stage ventures.
Perhaps the most telling insight comes directly from the startups themselves: on average, they attribute about 40% of their social and environmental impact to the support received from GoBeyond. In some cases, this figure rises to 70–80%, underscoring how mentorship, training, and network-building were true enablers of transformation. This result reaffirms our purpose: to support projects that spark broader change. This evaluation is a tool for growing alongside startups and strengthening our commitment to ever more responsible innovation. We will continue to invest in mentorship, training programs and new networking opportunities to help startups enhance and communicate their impact in an increasingly structured way.
