We’ve talked about why corporate venture building (CVB) is essential in today’s world, and the common pitfalls to avoid. Now, let’s look at where all of this is heading. To truly future-proof your company, CVB can’t just be a side project – it needs to be integrated into your strategy for long-term success.
Key Trend #1: Partnerships & Ecosystems
The days of going it alone are over. The most successful ventures will be those built on collaboration between corporations, startups, universities, and even government in some cases. Your company has the resources, the market access…but you may be lacking the agility or niche expertise. CVB is a way to tap into an ecosystem of players who can fill your knowledge gaps, opening up opportunities you could never access solo.
Key Trend #2: Focus on Impact
Profit is essential, of course. But increasingly, investors, customers, and top talent are looking at the social and environmental impact of ventures. CVB can be a powerful tool for tackling the big problems – whether that’s developing sustainable solutions, expanding access to healthcare in underserved areas, or creating products that are inclusive and ethical. The smart companies aren’t just chasing the next dollar, they’re building ventures that make a genuine difference in the world.
Key Trend #3: Emerging Markets
When we think of venture building, it’s easy to default to Silicon Valley models. But some of the most exciting innovation is happening in developing economies. Think about Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America – where rapidly growing populations face a unique set of challenges. CVB allows you to break into these markets, not just by adapting your existing products, but developing tailor-made solutions from the ground up.
Case Study: Innovation Without Borders
I was recently impressed by PwC, a multinational that launched a CVB initiative specifically focused on Venture and Growth Hub. Rather than just exporting their Western ideas, they embedded teams within local communities to understand the needs on a granular level. This led to ventures that are not only commercially sustainable but having a real impact on people’s lives.
The Takeaway
The future of corporate venture building is about being bold, collaborative, and impact-driven. If your company is willing to embrace this kind of long-term vision, CVB can be the engine that powers growth and innovation for years to come.
Thank you for joining me on this deep dive into Corporate Venture Building! I’d love to hear your thoughts – let’s connect on Linkedin
