Applications for SEAM Cohort 2 are now closed
The selection process is now underway. All applicants will be notified directly of their outcome by end of July 2026. In the meantime, follow our channels for general programme news and updates. We look forward to sharing more soon.
Social Enterprise Accelerator Malaysia
Empowering Impact-Driven Organisations to Scale Sustainably
SEAM is an accelerator programme designed to strengthen impact-driven organisations that are building solutions to social and environmental challenges in Malaysia, directly impacting to community livelihoods. This programme is initiated through a dynamic partnership between Biji-biji Initiative and IKEA Social Entrepreneurship, with the support of IKEA Malaysia.
Expanding the Impact Ecosystem
SEAM is expanding its reach to support not only organisations that formally identify as social enterprises, but also mission-led SMEs, inclusive businesses, NGOs with revenue-generating arms, and purpose-driven ventures that embed measurable impact within their core operations. The programme is intended for organisations that have validated their models, are generating revenue, and are seeking structured support to scale sustainably while remaining anchored in their mission.
A Pathway to Sustainable Growth
At SEAM, we are committed to catalysing social innovation and driving positive change across Malaysia. As a selected organisation, you will embark on a one-year journey with us, focused on scaling your impact and fostering inclusive growth. Through a curated combination of strategic mentorship, corporate engagement, advisory support, and ecosystem collaboration, you will strengthen internal systems, refine growth strategies, diversify revenue streams, and deepen measurable impact.
You will also be paired with thought partners who are IKEA co-workers, offering supportive guidance, and working alongside you to refine strategies and address specific challenges. By sharing their expertise and building connections, they aim to guide you in growing your impact at a pace that fits your unique journey. This collaboration is about learning and growing together, with the hope of creating meaningful, lasting change in the communities you serve.
Thematic Priorities
The programme aims to empower impact organisations in Malaysia to address these challenges through internal capacity building for impact businesses tackling these main issues:
Circular Economy and Waste Management
We support enterprises that are rethinking how resources are used — moving beyond take-make-dispose towards more circular systems. This includes efforts to reduce waste, extend the life of products through repair or reuse, and transform discarded materials into new value. At its core, this work is about designing systems where resources stay in use for as long as possible.
Sustainable Agriculture and Renewable Materials
We support enterprises working to build more resilient food and material systems. This can take the form of regenerative farming practices, agroforestry, or approaches that restore soil health and biodiversity. It also includes developing alternative, bio-based materials that reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-derived resources.
Raw Materials and Reforestation
We support enterprises focused on restoring and protecting natural ecosystems — from reforestation and responsible sourcing of natural materials, to efforts that protect against further environmental loss. This work plays an important role in rebuilding biodiversity and strengthening the natural systems that communities depend on.
Aquaculture and Marine Conservation
We support enterprises working to protect marine ecosystems while sustaining the communities that rely on them. This includes responsible aquaculture practices, as well as initiatives that restore and conserve coastal environments such as mangroves and coral reefs. It’s about protecting the environment while ensuring communities can sustain their livelihoods for the long term.
Inclusive Employment
Across all thematic areas, we recognise the importance of inclusive and equitable economic participation. We support enterprises that create meaningful work opportunities, particularly for communities that are underserved or marginalised. This includes efforts to build skills, open up access to employment, and create more inclusive workplaces that enable people to thrive.
Programme Benefits
Catalyst Opportunity
The SEAM Programme offers ten spots to organisations that show promising potential to scale. By joining our programme, your organisation gains enhanced recognition in the marketplace, showcasing your commitment to social impact. SEAM positions your organisation for future success by refining your business model, strategy, and investor readiness. Additionally, as part of our alumni network, you’ll continue to receive support and opportunities even after the programme ends.
Tailored Business Growth Roadmap
Our programme is designed to empower impact organisations with personalised guidance and support from seasoned business experts, including IKEA co-workers and industry leaders. These experts offer invaluable insights, advice, and connections tailored to the specific needs of each participating organisation. Through close collaborations, they assist in navigating challenges, developing effective strategies, and maximising impact. Whether it’s refining the business model, expanding market reach, or enhancing operational efficiency, our tailored support programme ensures that participating organisations have the tools and expertise required for sustainable growth and lasting success.
Thought Partner & Mentorships
Participants will be paired with IKEA coworkers as Corporate Thought Partners and gain access to experienced mentors who provide strategic guidance throughout the programme. Through regular engagement and collaborative discussions, they support organisations in refining strategies, navigating operational challenges, and strengthening their path toward sustainable growth and impact. This close partnership creates space for reflection, practical problem-solving, and informed decision-making as organisations prepare for their next stage of growth.
Ecosystem Connection
SEAM is a platform to foster collaboration with other impact leaders and stakeholders in the field. It is curated to nurture a dynamic ecosystem between impact organisations, industry experts, private corporations, government agencies, and more, to effectively grow the impact landscape in the country. Being part of this ecosystem grants you access to valuable resources and collaborative opportunities that can amplify your impact. Engage in peer-to-peer learning sessions, participate in advocacy platforms, and tap into a wealth of knowledge and support to guide your organisation thrive.
Access to Funding
Selected participants will unlock tailored financial support to cover essential business development expenses, empowering them to effectively grow their impact. The funding is designed to fuel their journey, enabling these participating organisations to accelerate growth initiatives with greater efficiency. Each selected organisation will receive funding from a pool of USD 200,000 based on their submitted business plan, improved together with the industry experts.
Catalyst Opportunity
The SEAM Programme offers ten spots to organisations that show promising potential to scale. By joining our programme, your organisation gains enhanced recognition in the ecosystem by showcasing your commitment to social and environmental impact that directly contributes to the community livelihoods. SEAM positions your organisation for future success by refining your business model, strategy, and investor readiness. Additionally, as part of our alumni network, you’ll continue to receive support and opportunities even after the programme ends.
Tailored Business Growth Programme
Our programme is designed to empower impact organisations with personalised guidance and support from seasoned business experts, including IKEA co-workers and industry leaders. These experts offer invaluable insights, advice, and connections tailored to the specific needs of each participating organisation. Through close collaborations, they support in navigating challenges, developing effective strategies, and maximising impact. Whether it’s refining the business model, expanding market reach, or enhancing operational efficiency, our tailored support programme ensures that participating organisations have the tools and expertise required for sustainable growth and lasting success.
Thought Partner & Mentorships
Participants will be paired with IKEA coworkers as Corporate Thought Partners and gain access to experienced mentors who provide strategic guidance throughout the programme. Through regular engagement and collaborative discussions, they support organisations in refining strategies, navigating operational challenges, and strengthening their path toward sustainable growth and impact. This close partnership creates space for reflection, practical problem-solving, and informed decision-making as organisations prepare for their next stage of growth.
Ecosystem Connection
SEAM is a platform to foster collaboration with other impact leaders and stakeholders in the field. It is curated to nurture a dynamic ecosystem between impact organisations, industry experts, private corporations, government agencies, and more, to effectively grow the impact landscape in the country. Being part of this ecosystem grants you access to valuable resources and collaborative opportunities that can amplify your impact. Engage in peer-to-peer learning sessions, participate in advocacy platforms, and tap into a wealth of knowledge and support to guide your organisation thrive.
Access to Funding
Selected participants will unlock tailored financial support to cover essential business development expenses, empowering them to effectively grow their impact. The funding is designed to fuel their journey, enabling these participating organisations to accelerate growth initiatives with greater efficiency. Each selected organisation will receive funding from a pool of USD 200,000 based on their proposed business growth roadmap, improved together with the industry experts.
Our Partners
Want to be part of the SEAM journey?
Get in touch with us at [email protected] to learn more about the programme and how you can contribute to strengthening Malaysia’s impact ecosystem.
Partner with SEAM