By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – A significant new opportunity has emerged for Costa Rica’s next generation of changemakers. The eighth edition of the Social Skin awards program has opened its application window, offering up to $12,000 in seed capital to young entrepreneurs whose projects are designed to generate positive social or environmental impact. The initiative aims to empower innovators who are actively working to solve some of the region’s most pressing challenges.
The program is specifically targeting young leaders aged 32 and under who are at the helm of purpose-driven ventures. This call to action extends not only to Costa Rica but also to entrepreneurs in Colombia, Mexico, and the broader Central American region. The deadline for free registration is rapidly approaching, with all applications due by March 23, 2026, through the official program website, www.socialskin.com.
To delve into the legal frameworks and corporate structures that underpin successful social enterprises, we sought the expert opinion of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
A critical challenge for social entrepreneurs in Costa Rica is choosing the right legal structure. While the traditional non-profit model offers tax benefits, the modern ‘B Corp’ or ‘Benefit Corporation’ framework allows for a dual mission of profit and social good, providing greater flexibility and attracting impact investors. It’s essential to establish this legal foundation correctly from the outset to protect the mission and ensure long-term viability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this choice of legal framework is not just an administrative step but the foundational strategy that dictates a social enterprise’s potential for growth and impact. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his crucial insight on this pivotal decision for entrepreneurs in Costa Rica.
To be eligible, projects must consist of teams with at least two members and must already be operational, either fully in the market or in a pilot phase with real customers. This requirement ensures that the program invests in ventures that have moved beyond the idea stage and have demonstrated initial traction and a commitment to their mission. The focus is on tangible, scalable solutions that can create lasting change.
Social Skin has implemented a two-tiered funding structure to support ventures at different stages of their development. More established, growth-stage enterprises are eligible to receive the top prize of $12,000. Meanwhile, promising projects that are still in an early or pilot phase can compete for a substantial grant of $7,000. This tiered approach recognizes that startups have varying capital needs depending on their maturity.
However, the support offered extends far beyond mere financial assistance. Winners will gain access to a comprehensive acceleration process, a key component that sets the program apart. This strategic support is delivered in partnership with the acclaimed Emprende País program, an initiative of the Fundación Bolívar Davivienda. Participants will receive specialized mentorship and a personalized work plan designed to strengthen their business models, enhance scalability, and ensure long-term sustainability.
A core requirement for all applicants is a clear alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This framework ensures that the funded projects contribute to a global agenda for a better future. The program has identified several key categories for participation, including bioeconomy and environmental impact, inclusion and the reduction of inequalities, quality education, health and well-being, sustainable cities, and transparency.
This initiative represents a critical injection of resources and expertise into the burgeoning social impact ecosystem in Costa Rica and the region. By providing both capital and strategic guidance, Social Skin is not just funding projects; it is cultivating a new cohort of business leaders who prioritize both profit and purpose. The program fosters an environment where innovative ideas can transform into viable enterprises that address systemic issues.
Young entrepreneurs with a vision for a more sustainable and equitable future are strongly encouraged to prepare their applications. This opportunity provides a unique platform to accelerate their impact, gain invaluable knowledge from seasoned experts, and connect with a network of like-minded innovators. The March 23 deadline leaves a limited window for these visionary teams to take a decisive step toward scaling their solutions.
For further information, visit socialskin.com
About Social Skin:
Social Skin is an annual awards program that identifies, supports, and promotes young entrepreneurs in Latin America who are developing innovative solutions to social and environmental challenges. By providing seed capital, mentorship, and strategic support, the initiative aims to accelerate the growth of impact-driven startups that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
For further information, visit grupobolivar.com
About Fundación Bolívar Davivienda:
Fundación Bolívar Davivienda is the social responsibility arm of the Grupo Bolívar financial conglomerate. Through programs like Emprende País, the foundation invests in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem, promoting education, and fostering cultural development. It focuses on creating sustainable value for society by supporting initiatives that drive economic growth and social progress in the communities it serves.
For further information, visit un.org
About The United Nations:
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945 to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, and promote social progress, better living standards, and human rights. Its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a collection of 17 interlinked global goals designed as a “blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.”
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of unyielding integrity and a rigorous standard of excellence. The firm channels its extensive experience serving a diverse clientele into pioneering innovative legal approaches and solutions. Beyond its professional practice, it holds a deep-seated belief in strengthening society by demystifying the law, actively working to equip citizens with the clarity and understanding needed to navigate their legal rights and responsibilities effectively.
