Open Applications for the Tenth Cycle of the Start Your Own Program

Applications are now open for the tenth edition of the ‘Start Your Own‘ program aimed at micro impact entrepreneurs developing business ideas with measurable social or environmental impact.

This year’s cycle has secured a total fund of approximately 90 thousand euros, which is distributed as grants for ten selected entrepreneurs and a six-month mentoring and educational program that assists entrepreneurs in business development, strengthening market position, and measuring the social impact of their projects.

The program, which combines financial support with intensive and personalized mentoring, is conducted by ACT Group and Philip Morris Zagreb, and in this jubilee year, it has been further strengthened by a partnership with the Croatian Employers’ Association (HUP) as an institutional partner and the Faculty of Economics in Zagreb as an academic partner that will participate in knowledge transfer, with applications from entrepreneurs accepted until April 12, 2026.

Interest in the program is continuously growing, as last year’s competition received over 300 applications from across Croatia, and the results of the program are also visible through concrete social returns on investment.

According to an analysis by ACT Group, in 2025, every euro invested in the program generated 4.86 euros of social good, through new jobs, the development of innovative products and services, and solutions that contribute to society and the community.

– Entrepreneurs who enter the program undergo six months of intensive work, from developing a business model and market testing to clear measurement of social impact. Our goal is for them to exit the program with concrete tools for growth and long-term business sustainability – stated Ana Brigović, head of entrepreneur support and business development at ACT Group, which implements Start Your Own.