Introduction
Reckitt Catalyst is a global social impact initiative launched by Reckitt to support entrepreneurs developing innovative solutions in health, hygiene, water, and sanitation. Introduced in 2025, the program aims to help social innovators scale their ventures and improve access to essential health and hygiene services for millions of people worldwide.
Background
Reckitt Catalyst builds on Reckitt’s long-standing commitment to social entrepreneurship. Since 2020, the company has supported more than 60 entrepreneurs across 13 countries, helping expand access to health, clean water, and sanitation for underserved communities. The Catalyst initiative significantly expands this effort through a five-year commitment focused on empowering women and underrepresented founders.
The program is delivered in partnership with organizations such as Acumen America, Yunus Social Innovation, and Health Innovation Exchange (HIEX), which provide expertise in entrepreneurship, impact investing, and innovation acceleration.
Funding Support
Reckitt Catalyst offers a range of support mechanisms, including:
- Flexible funding for selected ventures
- Business acceleration and capacity-building programs
- Mentorship from industry leaders
- Technical and strategic expertise
- Access to global networks and partnerships
- Visibility and market expansion opportunities
- Support for scaling health and hygiene innovations
For entrepreneurs in several participating countries, the program may provide investments of up to US$30,000 alongside accelerator support and mentoring.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants generally include:
- Social entrepreneurs
- Women-led startups
- Underrepresented founders
- Early-stage and growth-stage ventures
- Organizations working in healthcare
- Water and sanitation innovators
- Hygiene-focused enterprises
- Businesses addressing community health challenges
The program has supported entrepreneurs across countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the United States.
Benefits and Impact
Reckitt Catalyst aims to support up to 200 entrepreneurs by 2030 and improve access to health and hygiene services for five million people worldwide. The initiative combines funding, mentorship, and business expertise to help innovators scale impactful solutions within their communities.
The program focuses particularly on addressing barriers faced by women and underrepresented entrepreneurs, helping them access resources, networks, and opportunities that are often unavailable through traditional funding channels.
Conclusion
Reckitt Catalyst represents a significant investment in social entrepreneurship and health innovation. By supporting entrepreneurs working in healthcare, hygiene, water, and sanitation, the program helps accelerate solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities worldwide. Through funding, mentorship, and strategic partnerships, Reckitt Catalyst is helping create a new generation of impact-driven businesses with the potential to deliver lasting social change.
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