The tech team at HypoVereinsbank (HVB) provides tips on growth financing for companies with digital business models in startUPdate, the magazine of BayStartUP. The bank is breaking new ground in corporate banking, especially for startups and tech companies: The HVB Tech team is fully geared to the challenges of ambitious young companies with digital business models. In the tech industry, everything moves faster—including internationalization, for example.
Frank Nicolaisen from the HVB Tech team explains what’s behind it.
Growth financing for companies with digital business models
What is special about “startup banking”?
We deliver pragmatic solutions—and do so with exceptional speed. This is how high-growth tech companies operate, and that's why we provide the right banking services. Entrepreneurs can focus on their core business—their products, sales, operations, etc.
We know the tech scene, we share the work culture, and we're available during typical working hours, for example. But we also bring the advantages of a large, established institute.
How do you leverage HVB’s advantages as a large and international financial partner for startups?
We leverage our networks in international financial markets and the economy, as well as the experience of our employees. Our experts can assess early on in a business model, for example, when currency issues or foreign trade solutions will become important, and how the investor structure functions.
Through the UniCredit Group's international network in around 50 countries, we offer a truly unique position for the rapid implementation of the internationalization strategy.
Who are your customers?
We currently support approximately 140 tech companies with digital business models that are growing internationally. Some of these companies are in the startup phase or are already on the verge of going public. Our team in Berlin has been in existence since 2014 because we recognized the need early on. And our success proves us right: We grow primarily through word-of-mouth.
Where is the greatest need for advice among startups?
I would recommend every startup team to fully embrace sales and operations. We're building a professional financial infrastructure behind the scenes, from daily payment transactions and simple interfaces to international cash management and investment banking initiatives.
A sophisticated structure may not be crucial at the beginning, but with rapid growth you realize how important it is to be properly positioned in the financial area.
Getting to know each other personally is important
How does consulting for startups work in practice?
At the beginning of a business relationship, getting to know each other in person is important. Later, many issues can be resolved quickly and easily over the phone and via email. We also offer video consultations and virtual conferences across multiple locations.
As I said, our focus is on fast and pragmatic solutions, and we focus entirely on our tech customers.
Do you want more tips, background information and exciting news about Bavarian startups, financing & Co.? Then take a look at Online magazine from BayStartUP over.
