The Santander X Global Challenges are one of Banco Santander’s flagship programmes to support the most innovative startups and scaleups across their footprint countries in Europe, the USA and Latin America. Every year, three themed Challenges call for innovative, technology-driven businesses to compete for a cash prize, mentoring support and access to Santander X 100 – a prime community of entrepreneurs established by the bank offering access to resources, training and connection.
So far, the themes of the Challenges have revolved around sustainability, healthcare, new technologies, such as AI and IoT, and trademark areas that Banco Santander is known for, such as supporting the education and employability of younger generations. The Challenges have also seen collaborators such as Microsoft, Telefonica, Formula 1, Hitachi and Philips – offering the winners connections and access to networks that they would otherwise not be able to achieve.
Oxentia has been the chosen delivery partner for the Challenge since 2021, delivering impact at scale for Banco Santander. Since 2021, the Global Challenges have attracted more than 6,000 companies and crowned 84 winners. Winners have received a total of €1.6 million in cash prize, access to Santander X 100, and a plethora of additional perks and benefits. Most importantly, the Challenges have raised the Bank’s profile as one of the strongest supporters of innovation and entrepreneurship across the globe.
