Double Victory at the 2025 European Enterprise Awards
In the landscape of social entrepreneurship, there is a fine line between a "good idea" and a "transformative movement." Today, we are incredibly proud to announce that CollectiveUP has officially crossed that line, recognized on the European stage for our commitment to reshaping how business interacts with society.
We are thrilled to share that EU Business News has honored us with two prestigious 2025 titles:
- 🏆 Most Transformative Social Impact Hub – Belgium
- 🏆 Social Innovation Excellence Award
Winning these awards in 2025, after being "the ones to watch" as nominees just a year prior, is a massive milestone. It validates our "Collective" model: a belief that true innovation happens at the intersection of diverse expertise.
A vision from the helm
For our founder, this recognition is proof that the Belgian business ecosystem is ready to trade "business as usual" for "business for good." Liliana Carrillo, Founder of CollectiveUP says:
"These awards aren't just for us; they are for the entire ecosystem we are building,"
"Being named the 'Most Transformative Hub' confirms that our mission to bridge the gap between corporate strategy and social equity is working. We aren't just helping companies change; we’re helping them evolve."
The strategy and growth engine
Social innovation requires more than heart; it requires a rigorous, scalable methodology. Esztella Rostasi, Innovation Strategy Lead, notes that the "Excellence" award is a nod to the framework behind the magic:
"Social innovation shouldn't be accidental. We’ve worked hard to build a strategy where impact is a measurable KPI, not a side effect. This award validates our approach to making social change a core strategic advantage for every partner we work with."
Scaling that impact is where the rubber meets the road. David Varga, Innovation Growth Lead, sees these awards as a launchpad:
“This recognition is not just a pat on the back. It opens up rooms that were harder to get into before, with clients, with partners, with people who are starting to see that social impact and serious growth aren't opposites. That's the shift we've been building towards. We’re not just scaling a consultancy; we’re scaling a new standard for the Belgian economy.”
Tech-enabled, culture-driven
At CollectiveUP, we believe technology should serve humanity. Frederick Ducatelle, Co-founder and Head of AI and Technologies, highlights the role of ethical innovation in their win:
"We are seeing tremendous and highly disruptive advances in technology and AI, which can easily be viewed as a threat to social cohesion. At CollectiveUP, we want to help ensure that society as a whole benefits from these innovations, by focusing on social innovation and leading with ethics and purpose. This award encourages us to continue on this track."
But tools are only as good as the hands that hold them. Ruben Alvarado, Culture Director, reminds us that the "Hub" is made of people first:
"You cannot have external transformation without internal culture. Our 'Transformative Hub' title is a reflection of the radical collaboration and inclusive mindset we live every day. Culture is the soil in which innovation grows."
The art of the message
Finally, the impact must be seen and felt to be believed. Jurate Laugalyte, Creative Director, reflects on the power of the CollectiveUP brand:
"Innovation needs a soul. My goal has always been to ensure that our mission is communicated with the same level of creativity and beauty that the mission deserves. These awards celebrate the fact that social impact can, and should, be the most inspiring story being told today."
What’s Next for CollectiveUP?
As we look back on these 2025 wins from our vantage point in 2026, we aren't resting on our laurels. These trophies are reminders of our responsibility to continue "Transforming Together."
Whether you are a startup looking for a home, a corporation seeking a soul, or a technologist looking for a purpose, there is a place for you in our Collective.
Ready to be part of the next chapter?
