Munich Startup: Before we delve deeper into the topic of startups at the IAA, what can visitors expect at this year's IAA Mobility? What highlights shouldn't they miss?
Christine von Breitenbuch, Project Manager of IAA Mobility: A lot, in any case! Alongside the world's largest mobility and tech companies, nearly 100 international startups will present their ideas for digital and climate-friendly mobility solutions. That's the focus. Our Startup Area is the ideal platform for young companies and their business ideas in the field of mobility.
Munich Startup: Nearly 100 international startups will have the opportunity to present their ideas for digital and climate-friendly mobility during the IAA Mobility. Can you give us a few examples of innovative ideas from the participating startups that could sustainably transform the automotive industry?
Christine von Breitenbuch: The majority of startups provide products for charging, Electromobility or AI solutions for autonomous driving. New drive technologies will also be presented. Which of the products will ultimately succeed depends on the evaluation of investors and business angels, as well as on the customers or companies that are enthusiastic about the startups' products. The competition is fierce – even among the startups themselves – and internationally. One thing is for sure: There are some very exciting ideas.
Direct exchange with international decision-makers and investors
Munich Startup: Which Munich startups are participating? And where can they be found?
Christine von Breitenbuch: We have eight startups from Munich, which we are really pleased about. The majority of Munich's startups focus on e-mobility and charging solutions. But they also focus on supply chain management. At the IAA Mobility, almost 100 startups in four sectors will meet experienced and inspiring investors at the exhibition center. These up-and-coming young companies with creative mobility ideas are one of the highlights of the IAA Mobility and will be presenting themselves alongside established players in the industry in Halls A3, B1, B2, and B3 of the exhibition center.
Munich Startup: What can startups specifically gain from participating in the IAA?
Christine von Breitenbuch: The startups present themselves in close proximity to the larger IAA Summit exhibitors on the exhibition grounds. This virtually guarantees visibility and direct interaction with international decision-makers and investors. The startups are primarily looking for international contacts in their industry, but also in similar sectors, as well as more and better access to investors. We establish these contacts directly and indirectly at the IAA Mobility, for example, at the Founders Night in cooperation with Bits & Pretzels.
Munich Startup: The participation of startups at this year's IAA has increased significantly compared to 2021. Has anything generally changed in the relationship between established companies in the industry and startups during this period?
Christine von Breitenbuch: Startups are increasingly interested in showcasing their exhibits at the event, not just digital concepts. This is something we've learned from 2021. An international meeting place for mobility companies of all kinds is the perfect place for startups registered for the IAA Mobility to present their innovative technologies, business models, and products to the relevant specialist audience.
IAA Mobilitython: Follow-up orders of 50,000 and 150,000 euros
Munich Startup: In the run-up to the IAA, startups were also able to apply for the IAA Mobilitython. What exactly is this all about, and how can startups benefit from this competition?
Christine von BreitenbuchThe answer is quite simple: Established companies present a small group of startups with a real-world development challenge, which they are expected to solve. This benefits both sides: The company doesn't have to wait long for an internal solution or search for an external service provider. And the participating startups gain valuable experience and contacts, and in the best case scenario, win a follow-up contract.
The IAA Mobilitython and the collaboration with Prototype.club were already launched at the IAA Mobility 2021. As part of the IAA Mobility 2023, two renowned companies will present challenges to the ambitious startups: TÜV Nord and Robert Bosch GmbH. Both companies have presented questions from their everyday business, which they intend to implement with the best teams following the IAA.
The challenges will then be presented to the startups at a digital kickoff. The solutions will then be presented to the clients at the IAA Summit. This gives the participating teams greater exposure and allows them to establish additional contacts. The team that wins the follow-up contract will be chosen on-site. Follow-up contracts typically range between €50,000 and €150,000.
