Swiss Re Foundation launches Shine Extended Support Programme to help climate enterprises scale

Swiss Re Foundation has launched the Shine Extended Support Programme , an initiative designed to help promising Shine enterprises who have since their participation in the first phase, moved beyond early-stage growth by combining tailored technical assistance with catalytic funding.

Building on the Foundation's flagship Shine programme, which has supported early-stage entrepreneurs since 2018, the Extended Support Programme addresses the "missing middle" that many enterprises face after demonstrating initial traction. While too advanced for traditional grant funding, these enterprises often remain too early for commercial investment.

Delivered in partnership with Intellecap, the first six-month cohort has selected three Shine alumni Carbon Craft, Hydrogreens, and Sunbird Straws after careful evaluation. Through customised diagnostics, strategic advisory, leadership support and growth planning, the programme aims to strengthen each enterprise's readiness for its next phase of financial and impact growth.

The Shine Extended Support Programme reflects Swiss Re Foundation's commitment to supporting entrepreneurs not only at the point of innovation, but throughout their scaling journey helping locally developed climate solutions achieve greater impact and reach the communities that need them most.