BMW Startup Garage: Turbocharging innovation.

The BMW Group, a global leader in automotive manufacturing, is renowned for its premium vehicles and motorcycles. In 2015, BMW launched the BMW Startup Garage to identify and integrate cutting-edge technologies from startups into its products, services, systems, and processes. This initiative allows BMW to stay at the forefront of automotive innovation by leveraging the agility and creativity of startups.

Unlike traditional venture capital, where companies invest in startups, BMW focuses on purchasing innovative solutions directly from startups, ensuring quicker integration and less risk. Each year, the program assesses over 1,000 startups globally, focusing on those that have graduated from accelerators. Startups gain access to mentorship, opportunities to build their networks, and guidance on business strategies. They also work directly with BMW’s engineers and managers on real-world projects, ensuring immediate practical impact.

Noteworthy Startups.

• AirConsole: This Swiss startup developed an in-car gaming feature that was quickly integrated into BMW vehicles. The partnership exemplifies the rapid innovation cycle facilitated by the BMW Startup Garage.
  

• Kinexon: Specializing in real-time location-based services, Kinexon’s technology has been utilized by BMW to enhance manufacturing and logistics processes, demonstrating significant operational improvements.

B. Braun New Ventures:

Healing one startup at a time.

B. Braun is a leading global provider of healthcare solutions and services, offering products and systems for anesthesia, intensive care, cardiology, extracorporeal blood treatment, and surgery. The company’s venture clienting initiative, B. Braun New Ventures, focuses on accelerating healthcare innovations by collaborating closely with startups.

B. Braun New Ventures partners with startups by becoming their early customer, which allows for faster access to innovative solutions. This model helps B. Braun develop new technologies and improve existing ones more rapidly. They leverage partnerships with technology providers, such as MuleSoft, to enhance digital healthcare solutions, enabling the development of new experiences 50% faster.

Noteworthy Startups.

• Monidor: This Finnish startup developed a remote monitoring system for infusion therapy, which has been integrated into B. Braun’s portfolio, enhancing patient care and operational efficiency.

• AdjuCor: Focused on cardiovascular innovations, AdjuCor’s solutions have been accelerated through B. Braun’s support, demonstrating the company’s commitment to advancing medical technology.

Vattenfall’s InCharge: Supercharging collaboration.

Vattenfall is one of Europe’s largest producers and retailers of electricity and heat, focusing on becoming fossil-free within one generation. To drive innovation in e-mobility, Vattenfall established InCharge in 2018. InCharge aims to create a comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, supporting the transition to sustainable transportation by providing robust and accessible charging solutions across multiple markets.

InCharge operates by partnering with startups to develop and expand their charging network. Vattenfall’s green team supports internal units in driving innovation through these collaborations, facilitating the development of solutions like AI-based heating, involving startups such as QuantCo, Eliq, and Nuvia Smart Energy Technologies. Vattenfall simplifies terms and conditions for startups to attract innovative solutions and facilitate smoother partnerships.

Noteworthy Startups.

• QuantCo: This AI startup collaborated with Vattenfall to develop an AI-based heating solution, showcasing how innovative technology can enhance energy efficiency.

• Eliq: Specializing in customer engagement platforms for energy companies, Eliq’s solutions have been integrated into Vattenfall’s offerings, improving customer experiences and operational efficiency.

Your next step in innovation.

These stories from BMW, B. Braun, and Vattenfall showcase how venture clienting transforms industries, making innovation faster, more affordable, and more effective. The best part? This model isn’t limited to large corporations—any company can benefit. Venture clienting is more than just a buzzword but a powerful strategy that is helping big companies stay agile and innovative. By partnering with startups as customers, these industry giants are driving rapid advancements, boosting efficiency, and staying ahead of their competition.

The best part? This approach isn’t limited to tech giants or specific industries. Whether you are in automotive, healthcare, energy, or any other field, there is potential to leverage venture clienting to drive your business forward. So, what’s next for your company? Are you ready to explore the world of venture clienting? It might just be the key to unlocking your next big innovation. Remember, in today’s fast-paced business world, standing still is moving backward. Embrace the power of startups, become a venture client, and propel your company into the future!

What can we learn from these success stories?

1. Don't Just Invest: Become a Customer It's less risky than traditional investing, and it lets you scale your innovation efforts more effectively. Plus, you get to test new tech in real-world situations.

2. Speed is Key: These companies aren't just talking about innovation - they're making it happen fast. Develop processes that let you quickly validate and integrate new technologies.

3. Make It Easy for Startups: Big companies can be intimidating for startups. Simplify your terms and conditions. Create clear pathways for collaboration. The easier you make it, the more great ideas you'll attract.