NoSchnickSchnack - The Toolbox of Corporate Venturing

Christian Hüttenhein

Large organizations urgently need to accelerate their transformation, utilizing various innovation and venture tools such as M&A, venture capital, -clienting and -building, incubation, hackathons, and more. Each tool serves a common purpose but comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. This podcast explores how these tools can be distinguished and optimally utilized. Christian, with 15 years of experience working with large corporations and founding and selling his own startups, examines corporate venturing tools and their practical applications - without any SchnickSchnack.

  1. #024 AI, Consumer Trends & Food Startups, EIT Food, Marie Brueser

    05/02/2025

    #024 AI, Consumer Trends & Food Startups, EIT Food, Marie Brueser

    In this episode of the podcast, host Christian Hüttenhein interviews Marie Brueser, a venture manager at EIT Food. They discuss Marie's background in plant genetics and her passion for the food system, as well as the role of EIT Food in driving innovation within the food industry. The conversation covers the challenges faced by startups in the food sector, the impact of AI on food innovation, and the importance of consumer influence and regulation in shaping the future of food. Marie shares insights on the unique characteristics of food startups and the collaborative spirit within the industry, emphasizing the need for partnerships to drive meaningful change. Takeaways Marie Brueser has a PhD in plant genetics and a passion for the food system.EIT Food aims to create a resilient food system that offers healthy food for everyone.Collaboration between corporates and startups is essential for driving innovation in food.The food industry faces unique challenges, including regulatory hurdles and scaling difficulties.Food startups are often driven by personal stories and a desire to make a positive impact.AI can significantly enhance food formulation and innovation processes.Consumer preferences are shaping the food industry towards cleaner labels and healthier options.The future of food may involve more personalized nutrition and sustainable agricultural practices.Startups in the food sector often require partnerships to scale effectively.Legislation and consumer advocacy play crucial roles in driving positive changes in the food system. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marie Brueser and EIT Food 03:08 The Role of EIT Food in Innovation 06:19 Corporate Engagement with EIT Food 09:01 Global Reach and Collaboration of EIT Food 11:55 Challenges in the Food Industry 14:54 Startups in the Food Sector 18:07 Funding and Maturity Stages in Food Startups 23:44 Navigating Startup Failures and Corporate Collaborations 24:56 The Landscape of IPOs and Acquisitions in Food Tech 25:39 AI's Transformative Role in Agriculture and Food Production 28:56 Personalized Nutrition and the Future of Food 31:25 Emerging Startups and Innovations in Food Tech 34:32 The Intersection of Food, Health, and Technology 38:17 Consumer Influence and the Future of Food Regulations ____ Links to EIT Food: EIT FoodEIT Food Startup and Corporate Venturing Startups that have been mentioned: OnegoBioConstellr Startup examples you can find in the supermarket: BettaF!sh (DE)Revo Foods (Österreich)Heura (Spain)Agrain (Denmark)Anibiome (Croatia) ____ More about Christian Hüttenhein: Company:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.pexus-ventures.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-huettenhein/⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianHuettenhein⁠⁠⁠⁠ Calendar:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://calendly.com/huettenhein⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://venture-clienting-book.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Community:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.venture-client-roundtable.com/

    43 min
  2. #023 Dual Innovation & Integration Challenges, Ralph-Christian Ohr (German Episode)

    04/25/2025

    #023 Dual Innovation & Integration Challenges, Ralph-Christian Ohr (German Episode)

    In this conversation, Christian Hüttenhein and Ralph discuss the complexities of dual innovation and the challenges organizations face in integrating startups with core business operations. They explore the concept of ambidextrous organizations, the phases of innovation, and the critical role of management and culture in fostering an environment conducive to innovation. Ralph shares insights on the necessary conditions for successful integration and the importance of execution in bringing innovative ideas to fruition. Takeaways Dual innovation is essential for companies to thrive in a competitive landscape.Ambidextrous organizations can balance core business operations with innovative pursuits.Integration of startups into core business requires careful management and cultural alignment.The phases of innovation include discovery, validation, and integration, each with its own challenges.Management support is crucial for the success of innovative initiatives.Cultural factors often outweigh strategic plans in determining innovation success.Companies must define their long-term goals to guide innovation efforts.Effective resource allocation is key to supporting new ventures.The integration process should be gradual to maintain innovation integrity.Understanding the unique needs of different industries is vital for successful collaboration. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dual Innovation and Ambidextrous Organizations 04:21 Understanding Dual Innovation: Concepts and Challenges 10:03 The Role of Startups in Corporate Innovation 14:05 Phases of Innovation: Discovery, Validation, and Integration 18:55 Strategic Relevance and Resource Allocation in Innovation 23:58 Cultural Dynamics and Management in Innovation 30:07 Navigating the Integration Process of Innovations 35:05 Conclusion: Execution and Implementation of Innovation Strategies ____ More about Christian Hüttenhein: Company:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.pexus-ventures.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-huettenhein/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianHuettenhein⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Calendar:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://calendly.com/huettenhein⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://venture-clienting-book.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Community:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.venture-client-roundtable.com/

    54 min
  3. #022 Rethinking Startup Programs & AI Innovation, Accelerator OS, Yaniv Corem

    04/11/2025

    #022 Rethinking Startup Programs & AI Innovation, Accelerator OS, Yaniv Corem

    In this episode of the podcast, host Christian Hüttenhein speaks with entrepreneur and startup advisor Yaniv Corem about the evolution of startup programs, the role of AI in innovation, and the importance of education in entrepreneurship. Yaniv shares insights on the Accelerator OS, a platform designed to streamline startup processes, and discusses the future of software in the context of AI. The conversation emphasizes the need for human interaction in a digital world and the optimistic outlook for future generations in navigating these changes. Takeaways Yaniv Corem is the founder of Build for Impact and the Accelerator OS.Startup programs have not significantly evolved in their core processes.Venture clienting focuses on corporate needs rather than startup success.AI has the potential to revolutionize how startup programs operate.The Accelerator OS aims to reduce overhead in managing startup programs.Education is crucial for understanding and utilizing tools effectively.Human interaction remains essential despite increasing digitalization.The future of software may see a decline due to AI advancements.Optimism is necessary for navigating the future of entrepreneurship.Workshops for kids on AI can foster understanding and innovation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Yaniv Corem and His Journey 05:13 Understanding Startup Programs: Incubation vs. Acceleration 09:59 The Role of AI in Startup Development 15:02 Introducing the Accelerator OS: A New Approach 20:13 Navigating the Startup Ecosystem: Tools and Processes 25:00 The Future of Software and AI in Startup Innovation 30:03 Education and the Evolution of Academia 35:08 The Importance of Human Interaction in a Digital World 40:07 Conclusion: Optimism for the Future of Startups ____ More about Christian Hüttenhein: Company:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.pexus-ventures.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-huettenhein/⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianHuettenhein⁠⁠⁠⁠ Calendar:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://calendly.com/huettenhein⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://venture-clienting-book.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Community:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.venture-client-roundtable.com/

    43 min
  4. #021 Start2 Group Argentina, Kristin Eckert (German Episode)

    03/07/2025

    #021 Start2 Group Argentina, Kristin Eckert (German Episode)

    In this episode, Christian Hüttenhein speaks with Kristin Eckert, who is responsible for Start2 Group in Latin America. They explore the vibrant startup ecosystem in Argentina, discussing the role of government support, the entrepreneurial spirit, and the macroeconomic stability needed for growth. Kristin shares valuable insights on the challenges entrepreneurs face, from bureaucratic obstacles to opportunities in agriculture and data protection. Together, they dive into the unique cultural aspects that drive innovation and the potential for investment, while also reflecting on the need for talent development and education to fuel future growth in the region. Takeaways Kristin Eckert is a connector across continents, focusing on startups and government relations.Every Argentinian has an entrepreneurial spirit, driven by necessity.Bureaucracy in Argentina poses significant challenges to innovation.Leadership plays a crucial role in fostering a successful startup ecosystem.Argentina's economic landscape is complex, with both opportunities and challenges.The importance of macro stability for economic growth cannot be overstated.Investment opportunities exist in Argentina, particularly in the agtech sector.The right champions within government can facilitate better startup support.Attention on Argentina is increasing, both positively and negatively.A strong team is essential for navigating the complexities of the startup environment. Argentina's cultural passion fuels its startup ecosystem.Data challenges in agriculture require innovative solutions.Balancing data protection with innovation is crucial.Latin America has diverse startup ecosystems, each unique.Brazil's established market contrasts with Argentina's emerging scene.The entrepreneurial spirit in Argentina is a significant advantage.Education and talent are vital for Argentina's future growth.Leadership must balance progress with acknowledging challenges.The results define the difference between genius and madness.Hope for Argentina's economic recovery is strong. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kristin Eckert and Start2 Group 03:01 Kristin’s Role as a Connector in Startups 05:54 Navigating Government and Startup Relationships 09:00 Argentina's Economic Landscape and Challenges 12:01 Bureaucracy and Innovation in Argentina 15:08 The Role of Leadership in Startup Ecosystems 17:57 Investment Opportunities and Economic Growth in Argentina 21:51 The Passion of Argentina: A Unique Cultural Landscape 24:13 Agricultural Innovations: Bridging Data and Technology 27:14 Navigating Data Protection: Balancing Innovation and Regulation 28:40 Diverse Ecosystems: Understanding Latin America's Startup Landscape 31:31 Brazil vs. Argentina: Contrasting Startup Dynamics 33:08 Entrepreneurial Spirit: The Heart of Latin American Innovation 36:23 Hope and Challenges: The Future of Argentina's Economy 39:31 Balancing Progress: The Good and the Bad in Leadership 42:22 Education and Talent: The Foundation for Future Growth 45:07 Designing the Future: The Role of Startups in Corporate Innovation ____ Mehr über Christian Hüttenhein: Unternehmen:⁠⁠⁠https://www.pexus-ventures.com/⁠⁠⁠ Person:⁠⁠⁠https://www.christian-huettenhein.com⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-huettenhein/⁠⁠⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianHuettenhein⁠⁠⁠ Kalender:⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/huettenhein⁠⁠⁠ Buch:⁠⁠⁠https://venture-clienting-book.com/⁠⁠⁠ Community:⁠⁠⁠https://www.venture-client-roundtable.com/

    46 min
  5. #020 Startup Innovation in regulated industries, Atruvia, Bernhard von Canstein (German Episode)

    02/28/2025

    #020 Startup Innovation in regulated industries, Atruvia, Bernhard von Canstein (German Episode)

    In this episode, Christian Hüttenhein speaks with Bernhard von Canstein, Tribe Lead for Innovation at Atruvia, about the evolution of digital disruption and the role of corporate venturing. They dive into the challenges and opportunities in the financial services sector, with a focus on venture clienting, navigating regulatory landscapes, and aligning innovation with business needs. Bernhard shares his insights on fostering a culture of innovation, the importance of understanding consumer needs, and the future of fintech. Plus, they discuss leadership, team structures, and how success in innovation initiatives is measured. Takeaways: Digital disruption requires a radical change in business models.Innovation should be integrated into business areas for effectiveness.Venture clienting is a journey that involves collaboration with startups.Regulatory challenges in financial services can be both obstacles and opportunities.Understanding consumer needs is crucial for successful banking solutions.Disruptive innovations often stem from user experience improvements rather than just technology.Internal collaboration and understanding are key to successful innovation.Leadership today requires trust and openness among team members.Consumer feedback is essential for driving innovation in financial services.Prioritizing projects is necessary to avoid overwhelming teams with too many initiatives. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Corporate Venturing and Innovation 07:09 Atruvia's Role in Digitalization 12:44 Understanding Venture Clienting 18:58 Navigating Regulatory Challenges in Financial Services 24:19 The Future of Fintech and Consumer Banking 30:24 Disruptive Innovations in the Banking Sector 37:50 Team Structure and Internal Collaboration 42:54 Measuring Success and Impact ____ Mehr über Christian Hüttenhein: Unternehmen:⁠⁠https://www.pexus-ventures.com/⁠⁠ Person:⁠⁠https://www.christian-huettenhein.com⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-huettenhein/⁠⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianHuettenhein⁠⁠ Kalender:⁠⁠https://calendly.com/huettenhein⁠⁠ Buch:⁠⁠https://venture-clienting-book.com/⁠⁠ Community:⁠⁠https://www.venture-client-roundtable.com/

    53 min
  6. #019 Impact Investing and Accelerators, Miki Yokoyama (German Episode)

    02/21/2025

    #019 Impact Investing and Accelerators, Miki Yokoyama (German Episode)

    In this episode, Christian Hüttenhein speaks with Miki Yokoyama, an experienced expert in corporate venturing and impact investing. Miki discusses the challenges and opportunities of impact investing, highlighting the importance of collaboration with startups, the role of accelerators, and the evolving landscape of corporate innovation. She shares her insights on navigating the complexities of impact investing, where trust, optimism, and a strategic mindset are crucial for driving meaningful change. The conversation offers a deep dive into the potential of combining social and ecological impact with financial returns in today’s rapidly evolving corporate innovation world. Takeaways: Miki Yokoyama emphasizes the importance of social justice and ecological sustainability in her work.Impact investing aims to achieve both social/ecological returns and financial returns.The term 'impact' is often misused, leading to confusion in the industry.Innovation is crucial for corporate survival and growth in challenging times.Collaboration with startups is essential for corporate innovation.The corporate venturing toolbox includes various formats beyond just investment.Specificity in identifying pain points is vital for successful startup collaboration.Trust and a positive mindset are key in remote team dynamics.Long-term strategies are necessary for successful impact investing. Chapter: 00:00 Introduction to Miki Yokoyama and Her Journey 03:06 The Essence of Impact Investing 06:09 Critiques and Challenges of Impact Investing 08:59 The Role of Accelerators in Corporate Venturing 12:10 Aurum's Impact Investing Strategy 14:55 Navigating the Corporate Venturing Toolbox 17:45 The Importance of Collaboration with Startups 21:03 The Future of Impact Investing and Corporate Innovation 24:00 The Need for Specificity in Startup Collaboration 26:53 The Balance of Exploration and Exploitation in Corporates 30:12 Outlook for 2025 and Personal Reflections ____ Mehr über Christian Hüttenhein: Unternehmen:⁠⁠https://www.pexus-ventures.com/⁠⁠ Person:⁠⁠https://www.christian-huettenhein.com⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-huettenhein/⁠⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianHuettenhein⁠⁠ Kalender:⁠⁠https://calendly.com/huettenhein⁠⁠ Buch:⁠⁠https://venture-clienting-book.com/⁠⁠ Community:⁠⁠https://www.venture-client-roundtable.com/

    43 min
  7. #018 Venture Clienting in Telco, Wayra, Florian Bogenschütz (German Episode)

    02/14/2025

    #018 Venture Clienting in Telco, Wayra, Florian Bogenschütz (German Episode)

    Christian Hüttenhein speaks with Florian Bogenschütz, Managing Director of Wayra Germany – the innovation and investment unit of Telefónica. Florian offers a no-nonsense look into startup life and corporate innovation, sharing how revenue-driven strategies and streamlined processes pave the way to success. He explores the venture client model that forges effective connections between corporates and startups, and provides authentic insights into balancing transformational and transactional change—all without the usual gloss. Takeaways: The venture client model allows startups to become suppliers to corporates.Revenue generation is crucial for startups' survival and growth.Streamlining procurement processes is essential for effective collaboration.Key performance indicators should focus on successful pilot projects.Transformational innovation is becoming a priority over transactional processes.Internal marketing is vital for engaging employees in innovation efforts.Employee satisfaction improves when working with startups.Wayra aims to explore new sales fields through innovative partnerships. Startups are often glorified, but the reality is tough.Founders face daily challenges that are rarely communicated.Collaboration between startups and corporates requires understanding and moderation.Both startups and corporates have unique strengths and weaknesses.Authenticity in storytelling is crucial for engaging podcasts.Listeners appreciate genuine conversations without scripted introductions.Navigating the startup ecosystem requires clear communication and trust.Florian emphasizes the importance of process in innovation.His consulting work focuses on practical solutions for businesses. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Corporate Innovation and Wayra 06:06 Streamlining Processes in Corporate Innovation 11:46 Value Creation through Innovation 18:01 Key Performance Indicators in Startup Collaboration 23:50 Internal Marketing and Employee Engagement 30:10 Conclusion and Future Directions 37:19 Navigating Corporate and Startup Dynamics 45:48 Podcasting Insights and Authentic Conversations 51:20 Florian's Vision for Wayra and Consulting Experience ____ Mehr über Christian Hüttenhein: Unternehmen:⁠⁠⁠https://www.pexus-ventures.com/⁠⁠⁠ Person:⁠⁠⁠https://www.christian-huettenhein.com⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-huettenhein/⁠⁠⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianHuettenhein⁠⁠⁠ Kalender:⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/huettenhein⁠⁠⁠ Buch:⁠⁠⁠https://venture-clienting-book.com/⁠⁠⁠ Community:⁠⁠⁠https://www.venture-client-roundtable.com/⁠

    59 min
  8. #017 Venture Clienting in Asia, Lufthansa, Sidne Yeo

    01/17/2025

    #017 Venture Clienting in Asia, Lufthansa, Sidne Yeo

    In this episode, Christian Hüttenhein speaks with Sidne Yeo, Head of the Lufthansa Innovation Hub in Asia. As the link between a traditional European corporation and Asia's thriving startup ecosystem, Sidne offers invaluable insights into digital transformation, cultural nuances, and emerging trends. This engaging conversation delves into global innovation strategies, the power of cross-cultural collaboration, and the opportunities Asia presents for European businesses. A must-listen for those eager to look beyond their own horizons and understand the future of international business. Takeaways: Sidne Yeo has a diverse background, having lived in multiple countries.Lufthansa Innovation Hub focuses on partnerships with local startups.Cultural awareness is crucial for effective communication in global business.The APAC region is rapidly growing in the digital sector.Understanding local consumer behavior is essential for success.Venture clienting is a new focus for Lufthansa's innovation strategy.The team in Singapore is small but aims to grow and innovate.Future trends include super apps and digital payments in Asia.Curiosity and cultural exploration are key for personal growth.Southeast Asia's economy is thriving compared to Europe post-COVID. Chapters 00:00Introduction to the Conversation 05:43Partnerships and Projects in the APAC Region 11:28Cultural Differences in Business Practices 16:38Navigating Innovation Tools: Venture Clienting and Building 22:37Exploring New Avenues: Entertainment and Marketing Strategies 28:26Career Advice for Aspiring Professionals ____ Mehr über Christian Hüttenhein: Unternehmen:⁠⁠https://www.pexus-ventures.com/⁠⁠ Person:⁠⁠https://www.christian-huettenhein.com⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-huettenhein/⁠⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianHuettenhein⁠⁠ Kalender:⁠⁠https://calendly.com/huettenhein⁠⁠ Buch:⁠⁠https://venture-clienting-book.com/⁠⁠ Community:⁠⁠https://www.venture-client-roundtable.com/

    36 min
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About

Large organizations urgently need to accelerate their transformation, utilizing various innovation and venture tools such as M&A, venture capital, -clienting and -building, incubation, hackathons, and more. Each tool serves a common purpose but comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. This podcast explores how these tools can be distinguished and optimally utilized. Christian, with 15 years of experience working with large corporations and founding and selling his own startups, examines corporate venturing tools and their practical applications - without any SchnickSchnack.

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