Webinar #1 – Venture Building and Platform Organizations: Summer of Platform Organizations Series
In the first webinar from the Summer of Platform Organizations series, we brought together industry experts to explore the evolving relationship between venture building and platform organizations.
Boundaryless Team
Hosted by Luca Ruggeri, along with Shruthi Prakash, the session was filled with deep insights from Valentina Primo, founder of Startup Without Borders, and Ilaria Fava, managing partner at B-yond Ventures. This discussion centered around how organizations can leverage the principles of venture capital and platform thinking to drive sustainable innovation and growth. It serves as an intriguing conversation, especially for those interested in that intersection.
Intersection of Platforms and Venture Capital
Luca set the stage by emphasizing the power of platform thinking, highlighting how this approach allows organizations to create interconnected structures where value-producing units are effectively linked to both internal and external consumers.
Discussions extended on how venture capital principles can be applied within corporations, urging them to adopt a competitive, resource-driven environment that mirrors the startup ecosystem.
One of the key takeaways from Ilaria was the importance of aligning corporate goals with the fast-paced innovation typical of startups. She pointed out the challenges that arise due to the differing expectations and timelines between corporations and startups and stressed the need for standardized frameworks that could bridge these gaps, ensuring that both parties benefit from the collaboration.
“The mismatch in expectations and timelines between startups and corporations, stresses the need for standardized frameworks that could bridge these gaps.” – Ilaria Fava
She further highlighted the significance of maintaining a long-term vision in venture capital investments, which often determines the success of these partnerships.
Valentina Primo brought in a global perspective, focusing on the critical role that communities play in the startup ecosystem.
“Connecting startups with a broad network of mentors, investors, and partners is essential for unlocking new opportunities and fostering innovation.” – Valentina Primo
She shared insights from her personal experience with her work at Startup Without Borders, where she has built diverse, cross-border networks that have been instrumental in driving growth for emerging market startups.
Trust as a Tool for Growth
Trust in startups and venture capital ecosystems was highlighted as a foundation for successful collaborations. Whether through standardizing contracts and processes to reduce transaction costs, or allowing flexibility to innovate, trust remains the key driving factor for growth.
Key Points to Remember:
- Platform Thinking: Corporations can benefit from adopting platform thinking, which creates interconnected organizational structures that link value-producing units with consumers internally and externally.
- Venture Capital Principles: Applying venture capital principles within corporate environments can foster a competitive, resource-driven atmosphere that drives innovation.
- Standardization and Flexibility: While standardized frameworks are essential for reducing transaction costs and building trust, there must be room for innovation and flexibility in these agreements.
- Community and Networking: Building strong, diverse communities and networks is crucial for startups, especially in emerging markets. Cross-border connections can unlock new opportunities and drive growth.
- Long-Term Vision: Success in venture capital often hinges on maintaining a long-term vision that aligns with both corporate and startup goals.
This discussion was filled with valuable insights and learnings from two leaders who have questioned, challenged, and grown organizations by keeping platforms and innovation at the forefront.
It’s certainly not an episode to miss. By adopting these principles, organizations can create ecosystems that are not only inclusive and globally connected but also poised for long-term success. Tune in.
Upcoming Webinars
You can read about our upcoming webinars and sign up here.
The topics of the webinar include:
- Webinar #2: Data Products & the Platform Org
- Webinar #3: Leadership in Entrepreneurial and Ecosystemic Platform Organizations
- Webinar #4: Effective Team Dynamics to Support Platform Organization Strategies
Workshop on Strategies and Structures for Product Portfolio Innovation
For those eager to explore these concepts further, and understand how to design and build your own strategies for product or portfolio innovation, here’s something for you:
Boundaryless, after its successful feat in an offline event, is organizing its first-ever online workshop on “Strategies and Structures for Product Portfolio Innovation.” This event is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively manage and innovate within product portfolios.
The program delves into strategic frameworks that align product development with overarching business goals, helping you achieve adaptability in dynamic markets. It focuses on building a culture of continuous innovation, ensuring that organizations remain competitive and forward-thinking.
