Pilot
Access market-ready startup solutions and implement concrete proof-of-concept projects with clear KPIs.
INNOVATION –ACCELERATORBWMittelstand meets Start-ups
The Innovation Accelerator BW promotes targeted collaboration between medium-sized companies from Baden-Wurttemberg and startups.
free
ekipa GmbH is funded by the Baden-Wurttemberg Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism as part of Start-up BW.
Why startup collaborations are especially relevant for medium-sized companies
Medium-sized companies face rising innovation demands while internal teams are often already at capacity. Venture clienting provides a structured way to integrate external solutions and address concrete business needs faster.
Focused problem solving
Startups specialize in solving clearly defined problems with full focus. They work with a concrete product, an aligned team, and strong execution momentum. Venture clienting makes this way of working accessible to medium-sized companies without permanently tying up internal resources.
Access to innovation without building internal innovation infrastructure
What used to be mostly reserved for large corporations with dedicated innovation units is now practical for medium-sized companies as well. Venture clienting enables collaboration with startups through clear customer-supplier relationships, without equity stakes or long-term upfront commitments.
Structured process with clear pilot logic
Clearly defined pilot projects and measurable outcomes allow new solutions to be tested in a controlled way. The Innovation Accelerator BW provides a structured framework to systematically learn venture clienting and translate initial experience into concrete applications.
A program for structured collaboration between Baden-Wurttemberg medium-sized companies and startups.
The Innovation Accelerator BW is designed for companies that want to test and implement innovation in a structured way.
Structure
ekipa leads scouting, matching, and process execution as a neutral external innovation unit, reducing internal resource load for companies.
Low-threshold entry
The program is publicly funded. Entry barriers are lowered while commitment is built step by step.
How the program works
The Innovation Accelerator BW follows a proven venture clienting logic. From free initial access to implementing concrete pilot projects.
1
Free open webinar
Companies receive an introduction to venture clienting, reflect on initial needs, and, without obligation, learn about the process, requirements, and framework conditions.
2
Setup & commitment
Together with ekipa, companies identify concrete business problems and prioritize relevant use cases. On this basis, they make a well-founded decision on program participation.
3
Scouting & curated matching
ekipa identifies and validates suitable startups with market-ready solutions, handles first contact, and organizes targeted 1:1 matching sessions.
4
Pilot & capability building
Structured support for feasibility studies and proof-of-concept (PoC) pilots in real company environments, including method guidance and parallel capability building for sustainable internal adoption.
Your entry point to the Innovation Accelerator BW
The Innovation Accelerator BW promotes targeted collaboration between medium-sized companies from Baden-Württemberg and startups.
Free initial access
The open webinar provides a clear introduction to venture clienting and the program structure.
Commitment only at implementation
A moderate own contribution only applies once companies commit to the program after this initial phase and launch concrete pilot projects with startups.
Publicly funded & neutrally delivered
The program is publicly supported and operationally managed by ekipa as a neutral implementation partner.
free