FAST Program: Funding and Acceleration for Sustainable Transformation

Unique in its holistic and integrated approach, the organization provides (1) research and education programs, (2) ecosystem activism events, as well as (3) acceleration, investment and governance for ESG Start-ups and SMEs, driving ecological, social, and economic progress. Through innovative vehicles, initiatives and partnerships, Fondation Diane empowers individuals and organizations to adopt sustainable practices and to make a lasting impact on the community and the environment.

Selection process

The two-step selection process involves:

1. Evaluating Start-ups/MSMEs’ online applications based on the ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA section mentioned below
2. Shortlisted companies will be invited for a one-to-one interview after which a select few will be retained

Eligible sectors

We are looking for innovative solutions in the following sustainable sectors:

SDGs Considered:

Directly:

Indirectly:

Key Dates

• Applications open on: Friday, 16 August 2024
• Applications will close after receiving 25 eligible candidates
• Final results will be disclosed during an event to be determined and communicated later on

Comprehensive Acceleration journey (total duration of 6 months):

One to two day-session per topic, per company:

• Business Coaching sessions (1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd month): Topic 1: Innovation, Topic 2: Brand, Topic 3: Offer
• Sustainability Transition sessions (4^th month): Topic 1: Resources, Topic 2: Operations, Topic 3: Supply & Distribution
• Funding Readiness sessions ((5^th, 6^th month): Topic 1: Financials, Topic 2: Governance, Topic 3: Presentation Deck

Due Diligence and Industry Mentorship sessions will as well be held during the program.

Final pitching event and results: date to be determined after the end of the acceleration journey

Notes: 

• The active presence of the company founders during the coaching sessions is mandatory and absence to these sessions will penalize the chance of being selected
• Our prerequisite to investing in a given company, if we choose to do so, is for us to join its board while co-signing an investment agreement
• For any finalist company that we may provide equity funding for, we charge an additional 5% in equity for the participation in the acceleration program

Eligibility Criteria

• Impact alignment: clear mission and objectives with reference to specific SDGs
• Innovation: value proposition with unique technologies or methodologies
• Annual revenue: minimum of 50,000 USD net of grants
• Market opportunity: concise market research which demonstrates market potential
• Roadmap: clear milestones showing plan to viability
• Management team: Lebanese, expert and experienced team
• Legal and regulatory compliance: updated legal documents as well as audited financials
• Financial health: revenue evidence, market growth and conservative debt

Disclaimer

By applying to the FAST (Funding and Acceleration for Sustainable Transformation) program, applicants acknowledge and agree to the following terms and conditions:

• Application to the FAST program does not guarantee selection for coaching, investment, or any other form of support from Fondation Diane or Viridis Investment Fund Holding S.A.L.
• The selection of Start-ups based on the ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA defined for the FAST program is at the sole discretion of Fondation Diane and Viridis Investment Fund Holding S.A.L.
• Selected Start-ups may receive coaching, mentorship, and/or investment opportunities as determined appropriate by the program administrators
• By applying to the FAST program, applicants waive any right to file claims, lawsuits, or any legal actions against Fondation Diane, Viridis Investment Fund Holding S.A.L., their owners, employees, officers, directors, or affiliates, regarding the application process, selection decisions, program participation, or outcomes

By submitting an application to the FAST program, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to this disclaimer.

Where to Apply