Through its Open Innovation and Corporate Venture Capital programme, Swiss Post invests in startups. “This investment is vital, as it enables us to understand market developments and emerging customer behaviour,” says Thierry Golliard, Head of Open Innovation & Venturing, outlining the background to this commitment. “We offer startups our infrastructure – and our credibility. Combining these strengths with the technological innovations of startups enables Swiss Post to get ideas off the ground – and create innovative ecosystems with great added value.” One example is a cooperation with Matternet, a company that uses drone technology in the medical sector and develops solutions for transporting vaccines or medicines to the remotest locations.
Swiss Post invites innovative startups to present prototypes or their solutions at startup pitches. They benefit from feedback provided by decision-makers at the relevant Swiss Post business units. If the managers believe the startup has the potential to enhance Swiss Post’s range of services, Swiss Post is willing to invest in the company at an early stage. This ensures that the startup is agile and independent in its development and market launch. In return, Swiss Post seeks a minority interest.
venture.post.ch