New financial perspectives for Munich startups: Several industrial companies and venture capital providers are currently expanding their activities in the startup sector. Bosch, BMW i Ventures and Earlybird want to invest high millions in technology-oriented startups in the coming years. The focus is on artificial intelligence, deeptech and industrial applications.
By 2030, Bosch Business Innovations wants to invest around 200 million euros in building 20 new startups outside its core business. The funds are provided by the Bosch Group. In parallel, BMW i Ventures is launching a new fund with 300 million US dollars. Earlybird in turn closes an early-stage fund of 360 million euros.
Focus on technology and industrial applications
Bosch Business Innovations focuses on three technology areas: remote medical monitoring, software-driven manufacturing and the capture, utilization and storage of greenhouse gases. The goal is to bring technology-driven business models to market maturity. The venture builder works with external founders who take on operational responsibility.
Axel Deniz, CEO of Bosch Business Innovations, says:
“We want to systematically turn ideas into scalable companies.”
To do this, the company combines technological resources with industrial infrastructure.
BMW i Ventures is directing its new fund toward technological developments related to mobility and industry. The focus is on artificial intelligence applications, including systems for process automation and software-based solutions for industrial applications. Investment is made in startups in Europe and North America from the early stage to the growth stage.
Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, says:
“With BMW i Ventures, we are strategically investing in technologies that will shape the future of our industry.”
In addition to artificial intelligence, the fund also addresses topics such as the circular economy and new materials.
Early-stage financing in Europe
With Earlybird, another investor is closing a new fund. The eighth early-stage fund comprises 360 million euros and is the company’s largest fund to date. Earlybird invests in artificial intelligence, software infrastructure, as well as deeptech and hardware.
Part of the strategy is the stronger integration of artificial intelligence into its own processes, such as in the selection and support of portfolio companies. In addition, Earlybird is introducing an investment model in which active partners remain involved in the company long-term.
Earlybird’s previous investments also include the Munich startups Isar Aerospace and Marvel Fusion.
Current developments show that the supply of growth capital for technology-driven startups is expanding. This creates additional contact points for Munich startups in the fields of artificial intelligence, industrial applications and deeptech to international investors.
