The origins of 'Munich Network eV' began in 1984 as an initiative by Munich companies to bring the knowledge and new technologies necessary in the information age into industry. Since then, the association has made a name for itself as a matchmaker between medium-sized businesses and innovations and startups. Among other things, Munich Network Migros and the Munich startup Emmasbox The members include major corporations such as Airbus, Bosch, Infineon, MAN, and Siemens, as well as numerous medium-sized companies and research institutions such as Fraunhofer and the Max Planck Society. Katharina Hickel, Director of Innovation Scouting & Sourcing at Munich Network, answered our questions.
Please introduce yourselves briefly!
Munich Network is the matchmaker for innovation. On our platforms, we bring together relevant players who wouldn't otherwise find each other. And what's special about it is that, as a non-profit organization, we are 'not for profit,' meaning we are neutral and independent.
In concrete terms, this means that we have established approximately 35,500 contacts worldwide, have more than 2,300 tech industry member contacts, and are personally connected to over 400 of the most important startup hubs in over 40 countries on six continents. Our strongest member group consists of globally active large, established medium-sized, and ambitious young technology companies. Our members also include research institutions, venture capital investors, consulting firms, and entrepreneurial personalities. Together, they represent a large part of the German innovation and technology landscape.
Scouting, sourcing and matchmaking
What do you offer startups?
We connect the world's best startups directly with the decision-makers of established technology companies in our network. We offer two startup services: In our "Innovation Scouting & Sourcing" area, we actively search for the most innovative startups that match the innovation search areas of one or more technology companies. Startups looking for collaboration partners and interested in getting on our members' radar can register on our "Innovation Platform." We also offer startups the opportunity to pitch at all our networking events, thus gaining even greater visibility.
What do you focus on when working with startups?
Fundamentally, personal and direct interaction with founders and transparent communication are our top priorities. Startups interested in our matchmaking services are therefore expressly invited to participate, and we are always happy to listen to their concerns.
In our collaboration with startups, we focus on technology-driven B2B or B2B2C innovations. In our services, we place great importance on intensive preparation for startups before their personal meetings with the innovation managers.
Groundbreaking innovation and a quick-witted founding team
To be successful, a startup must…
… have a groundbreaking innovation, be a smart and agile founding team, and work with Munich Network to have a direct line to the technology industry — and thus to potential partners, customers, and investors.
Why does a startup need Munich Network?
We provide direct access to the decision-makers of the German technology industry.
“Ambitious tech founders can’t make mistakes”
What is the biggest mistake a startup can make?
Ambitious tech founders can't make mistakes; they can only gain valuable experience and, in the best case scenario, become highly successful. However, a clear vision is essential when it comes to collaborating with a large company.
The trend of the year is…
...in the field of technology, the topic of artificial intelligence and its applications across industries. A future trend, because its use will fundamentally change our economy and society in the long term.
What characteristics make the Munich startup scene so special?
Munich is home to world-class technology startups. Munich's universities, in particular, are true talent factories, with over 130,000 students. Furthermore, no other German city is home to more DAX-listed companies.
Last but not least: Who do startups approach when they want to talk to you?
There are no barriers. We are a small, powerful team, and each of us can be contacted at events, by phone, or by email. For all matters relating to matchmaking with our industry members, we are particularly happy to Franziska Huber, Rosanna Günzel and I to contact us.
