For the fourth consecutive year, 27pilots is bringing the coveted Venture Client Track to Slush 2024, reinforcing its critical role in transforming corporate venturing. This year’s theme, “Metamorphosis of Corporate Venturing,”spotlights a fundamental shift in how corporations engage with startups. Rather than simply investing in startups, more corporates are embracing the Venture Client Model, where they act as early customers, directly integrating startup innovations to address business challenges.
Gregor Gimmy, pioneer of the Venture Client Model, views this shift as a natural response to the limitations of traditional corporate venturing:
“Since I developed and implemented the Venture Client Model at BMW in 2015, it has become the new standard in corporate venturing because it delivers immediate business impact.”
In this model, corporations act as early adopter clients of startups rather than investors, which makes all the difference. First, it gives access to the very best startups, even those heavily funded by top VCs. Second, by eliminating the need for capital investments in the millions, companies can focus their resources on realizing the strategic advantages. Finally, this approach allows companies of any size to participate in corporate venturing, leveling the playing field across industries.
Ushering the New Era of Corporate Venturing
The Metamorphosis of Corporate Venturing is already underway, with many companies recognizing the need for a shift. This year’s Venture Client Track will celebrate and amplify this positive trend by fostering deeper collaborations between Venture Client Units, startups, and venture capitalists.
Aino Bergius, CEO of Slush, highlights the unique value the track offers to startups:
“The Venture Client Track offers something truly special for founders. While Slush is already known for connecting startups with investors, this track is where corporates come together. It’s the one place where startups can engage with corporates who are excited to become their early adopters, providing real market opportunities and growth.”
The Venture Client Track offers unparalleled networking opportunities for startups to meet potential corporate customers like Airbus, BMW, Siemens Mobility, Holcim, Equinor, Otto, MTU, Helm, and Zurich Insurance. On the dedicated stage, these companies will discuss their industries’ current and future challenges and how startups can help solve them.
Additionally, 27pilots will provide a preview of the State of Venture Client Report 2024 which will be published later this year. This comprehensive report, based on quantitative data, explores how corporates are benefitting from startups and adopting their solutions. The survey is open to both startups and corporates until October 25th, and you still have time to share your insights: take the survey for startups here and for corporates here.
One of the key highlights for corporates at Slush will be the side event co-hosted by Deloitte Finland and 27pilots on Tuesday, November 19th, the night before Slush. Corporates interested in exploring the future of corporate venturing and the role of the Venture Client Model can register for the event here.
As Slush 2024 unfolds, the Venture Client Track will help shape the future of corporate venturing, driving meaningful collaboration and innovation that benefits both startups and established businesses.
For more information on the Venture Client Track, visit here.
Contact person: Sylvia Paersch, [email protected]