Unilever unveils new digital marketing partnership programme

Unilever has announced the launch of a new project that will help up-and-coming digital marketing firms to expand into new territories.

The Go Global project will see the company contribute $100,000 (61,200 pounds) in cash, mentorship and in-kind services to innovative digital companies that have been deemed ready for international expansion.

These firms will be able to work with seven of Unilever's global flagship brands – Unilever, Clear, Surf, Magnum, Flora/Becel Pro Activ, Hellmann's and Vaseline – and run customised digital marketing pilots in the fields of content, mobile or connected devices.

Applications for the programme are open until January 17th 2014, with successful applicants set to be notified on March 1st.

Olivier Garel, managing director at Unilever Ventures, said: "We are seeing a lot of really exciting digital marketing businesses … Go Global will allow us to identify the best amongst these, to work closely with them and help them take their business to the next level."

Last month, the company refined the focus of its business by selling off its Soft and Beautiful, TCB and Pro-Line Comb-Thru personal care brands to hair care specialist Strength of Nature.