For immediate release
hiveonline, the digital financial platform empowering the informal economy, has been named one of the top 100 impact startups to watch in 2026 by Change 100, a global campaign launched by the impact platform We Make Change and backed by major partners, including Microsoft Entrepreneurship for Positive Impact, ChangeNOW and Techstars.
Selected from hundreds of applicants worldwide, hiveonline was recognised for its innovative approach to financial and economic inclusion.
Founded in 2016 by Sofie Blakstad and Matthew Mims, the startup is transforming market systems and financial access with its digital ecosystem.
“We’re incredibly proud to be part of Change 100 and stand alongside such an inspiring group of innovators,” said Matt Mims, CEO of hiveonline. “This recognition helps shine a light on our mission to catalyse growth for smallholder farmers and the informal sector across Sub-Saharan Africa, and will help us grow our impact with the support of a global community.”
Change 100 was created to spotlight and accelerate the most innovative solutions to the world’s biggest challenges.
“The world’s challenges are only growing more urgent by the day, so we’re proud to be supporting hiveonline and recognising them as one of the most innovative impact startups leading the way in 2026.” said James Sancto, CEO of We Make Change, “Change 100 may have begun as a campaign last year, but it’s quickly becoming a movement to supercharge the sustainability and social impact solutions the world needs.”
Winners of Change 100 will be connected with critical resources, programmes, and a global talent pool of 50,000+ remote volunteers, including industry experts from global companies like Standard Chartered Bank, PA Consulting, and Grundfos.
The campaign was amplified by support from leading organisations including Microsoft Entrepreneurship for Positive Impact, ChangeNOW, and Techstars.
The 100 winning startups were announced at ChangeNOW in Paris on 30th March 2026, the largest event for solutions for the planet.
Explore the full list of Change 100 winners: https://www.wemakechange.org/change100