HIGHLIGHTS & LEARNINGS - OUR Partner Brunch 2024

IMPORTANCE OF STRONG NETWORKS & GLOBAL EXPANSION

At MotionLab.Berlin, we believe in the power of connections and a strong network to drive innovation and foster collaboration for a more sustainable future globally.

Following the success of our very first Partner Dinner in January 2024, where stakeholders gathered to strengthen connections and build a purpose-driven ecosystem, we continued our journey with our next #NetworkInMotion event on the topic of global expansion: Our Partner Brunch!

On the 16th of April, it was finally time to continue our #NetworkInMotion event series with another highlight. The Partner Brunch served as a platform to delve deeper into the theme of “Global Expansion: Unlocking New Markets”. But we not only wanted to exchange insights, share knowledge, and opinions, our main goal was to further strengthen a network of like-minded stakeholders committed to drive positive change in the hardtech sector. Let’s look back into the highlights and key takeaways.

That was out MotionLab.Berlin partner dinner with a lot of highlights like delicious food and a insightful panel on global expansion
Our Highlights and key takeaways of our Partner Brunch 2024 at MotionLab.Berlin to build a purpose driven network to help hardtech startups in areas like global expansion.
The highlight of the day: Our Panel discussion of global expansion for startups.

OUR COMMITMENT TO A PURPOSE-DRIVEN NETWORK

Building a purpose-driven network to support hardtech startups in areas like product development, business growth and global expansion, to work together towards a more sustainable future.

Building a purpose-driven network for a more sustainable future.

In January 2024, we hosted our very first event of this series, our special Partner Dinner. It was a memorable evening with a lot of insights, culinary highlights and networking possibilities. This event marked the start of our dedication to creating a purpose-driven network focused on supporting startups and their hardtech solutions for achieving a carbon net-zero future. With over 60 of our key network partners, the dinner served as a catalyst for discussions on shaping a climate-positive ecosystem and fostering innovation globally within the hardtech startup community.

That was our MotionLab.Berlin Partner Dinner 2024, where we invited all core partners to conntect each other to work together towards a more sustainable future.
That was our MotionLab.Berlin Partner Dinner 2024.
That was our MotionLab.Berlin Partner Dinner 2024, where we invited all core partners to conntect each other to work together towards a more sustainable future
We have the vision of building a professional network and a purpose-driven ecosystem where people support each other and connect to work together towards a more sustainable future.

EXPLORING OUR #NETWORKINMOTION PARTNER BRUNCH

Yesterday, we were able to successfully continue pursuing this goal during a captivating brunch at our event location at MotionLab.Berlin in Alt-Treptow. The Partner Brunch aimed to deepen connections, introduce our partners to our community and share insights. It was the perfect basis for building up collaborations and knowledge exchange. This time, we dedicated the event to another very relevant topic: “Ready to Scale? The Power of Ecosystems in Market Expansion”. Rene Giese introduced the topic perfectly with a short keynote about how SMEs and corporates can profit and grow through our curated ecosystem. Following the keynote, the stage was set for the centerpiece of the event, our panel discussion on the topic of “Global Expansion: Unlocking New Markets”.

Choosing the topic of this event was not difficult this time. In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, the pursuit of global expansion holds significant relevance for businesses, particularly those in the hardtech sector. The choice of topic for the Partner Brunch underscores the imperative for startups to transcend geographical boundaries in order to realize their full potential and make a tangible impact. By understanding market demands, overcoming logistical challenges, and leveraging ecosystems, businesses can unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.

THE CENTERPIECE: A PANEL DISCUSSION ON GLOBAL EXPANSION

The centerpiece of the brunch was undoubtedly our panel discussion, featuring a distinguished lineup of industry leaders and experts.

Delving into topics ranging from market entry strategies to intellectual property protection, our panelists provided deep insights drawn from their own experience in global growth. On stage, we welcomed 4 important partners and mentors from our close network:

  • Dan Shor, Research Director at Innovobot, who brought a wealth of knowledge in tech-driven market innovation, 
  • David Riding, CTO and Co-Founder at Heatle, offered insights from the forefront of product development and technological integration, 
  • Dr. Corinna Sinzig, Chief Venture Officer at Next Big Thing AG, with her expertise in venture building and corporate innovation, and 
  • Tim Dieryckx, CEO at Voxdale, who shared his journey of leading a company through phases of exponential growth and the role ecosystems have played.

One of the key discussions revolved around the importance of strategic partnerships in facilitating international expansion. Our panelists emphasized the need for startups to cultivate alliances with manufacturers, suppliers, and investors early on to access resources and market opportunities effectively. Furthermore, the panel delved into the complexities of navigating regulatory environments, safeguarding intellectual property rights in global markets, the significance of understanding and adapting to local markets’ nuances, and the role of technology and innovation in driving sustainable growth.

Our highlights and key takeaways of our Partner Brunch 2024 at MotionLab.Berlin to build a purpose driven network to help hardtech startups in areas like global expansion.
David Riding, CTO and Co-Founder at Heatle, offering insights from the forefront of product development and technological integration.
Dr. Corinna Sinzig, one of our panelists shared her insights and experience on global market expansion for startups.
Tim Dieryckx, CEO at Voxdale, who shared his journey of leading a company through phases of exponential growth and the role ecosystems have played.

GLOBAL EXPANSION - THE 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS

Drawing from the insights, knowledge and discussions of our panelists, guests and community shared on stage and afterwards during the brunch, we were able to summarize 5 most important takeaways and tips for you.

  • Build Strategic Partnerships Early:
    Form alliances with manufacturers, suppliers, investors, and other stakeholders early in your scaling journey. These relationships can provide critical support, resources, and market access in the process of global expansion and as you grow.
  • Understand Local Markets:
    Understanding and adapting to local markets' nuances is critical for successful international expansion. Each market has its own regulatory, cultural, and business nuances. Invest time in understanding these aspects to tailor your approach effectively, ensuring smoother entry and expansion efforts.
  • Leverage Technology and Innovation:
    Utilize the latest technologies and innovative practices not only in your product development but also in your scaling strategies. This can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and create new opportunities for growth.
  • Focus on Sustainable Growth:
    While rapid global expansion is appealing, prioritize sustainable growth that ensures long-term success. Consider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors to build a resilient and responsible business.
  • Engage with Local Ecosystems:
    Actively participate in local ecosystems and networks. This engagement can offer invaluable insights, foster partnerships, and open doors to new opportunities that might not be apparent from the outside.

THE EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

For our team, the answer to the question on the highlights of the partner brunch is very clear: “At our #Network-in-Motion Brunch, the real star of the show was our amazing community. Imagine starting your day with a smoothie prepared by the community startup Open Funk, then sitting down to a tasty breakfast prepared by the founders of MAD and SPAIA (Manuela, Marta & Brodie). It’s not just about eating and learning from our panel talks on global expansion; it’s about seeing our community in action, supporting and learning from each other.”

This event is a perfect snapshot of what makes MotionLab.Berlin special: people coming together, sharing skills, and having a good time. It’s our community’s spirit and collaboration that makes us stand out, and this brunch is all about celebrating that.

Our Highlights and key takeaways of our Partner Brunch 2024 at MotionLab.Berlin to build a purpose driven network to help hardtech startups in areas like global expansion.
network-in-motion_motionlab-berlin_global-expansion
Open Funk, a startup located at MotionLab.Berlin, was part of our Partner Brunch to serve fresh smoothies.

NEXT STEPS & CONCLUSION

While the #NetworkInMotion brunch on global expansion was coming to an end, this eventful day was far from ending for us at MotionLab.Berlin.

Immediately afterwards, we were able to start our new bootcamp “How to Bring a Hardware Product to Market” with a great masterclass by our expert, mentor and important network partner Tim Dieryckx, CEO at Voxdale. The bootcamp is designed to equip startups with the essential skills they need to tackle the complexities of hardware product development. The masterclasses will take place daily from 16.04. to 22.04. You can still register for one of the masterclasses led by our experts on eventbrite.de. Here you can find all masterclasses and events of the bootcamp: https://www.eventbrite.de/cc/hardware-prototyping-bootcamp-3182409

In conclusion, our Partner Brunch, as part of our #NetworkInMotion series, served as another platform for collaboration, learning, and growth within the hardtech ecosystem. By fostering a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and knowledge exchange, we continue to empower startups, industrie experts and entrepreneurs to realize their full potential and drive positive change in the world by addressing topics like global expansion. As we look towards the future, let us remain committed to the values of community, collaboration, and sustainability, ensuring a better and more sustainable tomorrow. 

Your next chance to meet our hardtech network at a great event is coming soon. Secure one of the limited tickets to our Hardtech Innovation Accelerator Demo Day now! P.S. The event tickets are selling fast, so don’t wait too long!

GET YOUR TICKET FOR DEMO DAY 2024!