Studio Structures: Building for Scalability and Resilience

The traditional startup model often puts founders on a lonely, risky path. But there’s a new approach gaining traction: venture studios. These startup studios—or company builders—are redefining how companies are launched and scaled.

What Is a Venture Studio?

A venture studio is an organization that creates startups from scratch. Unlike accelerators or incubators that support existing startups, studios identify market opportunities, assemble teams, and develop products internally. Once a venture is validated, it is spun out with funding and a dedicated team.

This structure centralizes support functions—such as marketing, finance, HR, and legal—enabling new startups to hit the ground running. It’s a system designed for scalability, speed, and resilience.

Key Benefits of the Studio Model

• Operational Efficiency: Shared services reduce overhead and allow startups to focus on product-market fit.

• De-risked Innovation: Ideas are tested systematically, reducing the chance of premature failure.

• Talent Pool: Studios attract top-tier talent who can rotate between projects or take leadership roles.

• Faster Time-to-Market: With processes and resources already in place, new ventures can launch quickly.

Building for Scalability

Studios are designed to build not just one successful company—but multiple. This requires:

• Repeatable Processes: Standardized systems for validating, launching, and scaling ventures.

• Cross-functional Teams: Experts in design, engineering, growth, and operations working in sync.

• Robust Infrastructure: Tools and frameworks that allow each startup to scale independently.

• Ensuring Resilience

• Resilience is about adaptability, especially in uncertain markets. Studio structures offer:

• Pivot Flexibility: Centralized oversight allows quick changes in direction when needed.

• Capital Efficiency: Shared resources help conserve cash.

• Learning Loops: Failures from one venture become lessons for the next.

A New Era of Entrepreneurship

Studios are not for everyone—but for mission-driven founders who want to build fast and learn faster, they offer a compelling model. With the right leadership and vision, venture studios can become innovation engines, capable of launching multiple high-growth businesses with reduced risk and increased resilience.

Private Equity in Company Building: Fueling Long-Term Growth

Private equity (PE) is often associated with large-scale buyouts, corporate restructuring, and financial engineering. However, in recent years, PE has increasingly positioned itself as a powerful partner in company building. Rather than simply optimizing existing businesses, many private equity firms are now focused on creating long-term value through hands-on operational support, strategic planning, and growth acceleration.

Understanding Private Equity’s Evolving Role

Historically, private equity was primarily viewed as a financial tool—buy a company, optimize it, and sell it at a profit. While this remains part of the playbook, the role of PE is evolving. Today’s investors are increasingly hands-on, bringing in talent, tools, and methodologies that help startups and growth-stage companies scale sustainably.

These investors are not just financiers; they act as co-builders. They offer deep expertise in areas such as market expansion, talent acquisition, technology integration, and operational efficiency. This model of active ownership is becoming a core element of modern private equity.

Why Private Equity Matters in Company Building

PE firms bring a unique set of advantages to the table:

• Capital Injection: Provides the necessary funding for product development, talent acquisition, or market expansion.

• Strategic Guidance: Helps refine go-to-market strategies and unlock new revenue streams.

• Operational Support: Offers access to a network of experts who can support execution across sales, finance, HR, and more.

• Governance and Accountability: Introduces performance metrics and milestones to ensure progress is measurable and continuous.

This combination of capital and capability makes private equity a strategic ally for founders and executives looking to scale their ventures.

Case Study: From Startup to Market Leader

Consider a SaaS startup with a strong product-market fit but limited resources to scale. A private equity firm steps in, not only providing capital but also bringing in a new COO, revamping the sales strategy, and introducing OKRs (Objectives and Key Results). Within two years, the company expands into three new markets, doubles its revenue, and becomes a category leader.

This illustrates how PE firms can shift from being reactive investors to proactive builders.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the benefits, founders should be cautious:

• Loss of Control: PE involvement often comes with board seats and voting rights.

• Short-Term Pressure: Some firms may push for rapid returns over sustainable growth.

• Cultural Fit: Not all PE firms align with startup culture and vision.

Choosing the right partner is crucial. Founders should look for investors who understand their vision and are committed to long-term value creation.

Final Thoughts

Private equity in company building represents a strategic evolution in the investment landscape. With the right partnership, it can offer far more than funding—it can be a catalyst for growth, innovation, and long-term success.

Company Building in the Next Innovation Cycle: Embracing the Future

If the last innovation cycle gave rise to unicorns powered by cloud software, mobile-first products, and direct-to-consumer brands, the next one will look and feel different. Today, builders are working against a backdrop of AI breakthroughs, climate urgency, shifting labor models, and economic pressure to scale responsibly, not recklessly.

So, what does successful company building look like in this next phase? It’s more intentional, more human, and far more collaborative than before. Here’s what founders, operators, and ecosystem leaders need to know.

Think Beyond Technology, Start with Systems

While AI and automation dominate headlines, the real winners in this cycle will think in systems, not just features. They’ll build for resilience, design for circularity, and operate with inputs from diverse communities.

That means moving beyond point solutions. The next wave of builders will ask: How does this company improve the system it exists within? Whether that’s a supply chain, a talent pool, or an entire sector.

Companies like Figma and Notion didn’t just offer productivity tools—they created new standards for how people collaborate. That’s the level of systemic thinking that endures.

Embracing Technological Convergence

The rapid advancement of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and quantum computing is redefining the boundaries of what's possible. Companies are now leveraging these tools not just for efficiency but to create entirely new value propositions. 

For instance, AI agents are evolving from simple assistants to autonomous entities capable of complex decision-making, impacting industries from healthcare to finance. This technological convergence demands that companies remain agile, integrating emerging tools into their operations and staying ahead of the curve.

Prioritizing Sustainable Innovation

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword but a business imperative. Consumers and stakeholders alike are holding companies accountable for their environmental and social impact. 

In response, forward-thinking organizations are embedding sustainability into their core strategies, from supply chain management to product design. This shift not only addresses global challenges but also opens up new markets and opportunities for growth.

Fostering a Culture of Continuous Learning

In the face of rapid change, a company's ability to learn and adapt becomes its greatest asset. Building a culture that encourages experimentation, values feedback, and embraces failure as a learning opportunity is crucial. Such environments empower employees to innovate and drive the company forward.

Organizations that invest in upskilling their workforce and promoting cross-functional collaboration are better positioned to navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape.

Leveraging Data-Driven Decision Making

Data has become the lifeblood of modern enterprises. Harnessing data analytics enables companies to make informed decisions, personalize customer experiences, and identify emerging trends. However, with great power comes great responsibility. Ensuring data privacy and ethical use is paramount.

Companies that strike the right balance between data utilization and ethical considerations will build trust and gain a competitive edge.

Building Resilient and Adaptive Structures

The unpredictability of today's world, from global pandemics to geopolitical tensions, underscores the need for resilience. Companies must design structures that can withstand shocks and adapt to new realities. This involves diversifying supply chains, investing in digital infrastructure, and developing contingency plans.

Resilient organizations not only survive disruptions but often emerge stronger, having turned challenges into opportunities.

Embracing Collaborative Ecosystems

No company operates in isolation. The next innovation cycle emphasizes the importance of collaborative ecosystems, where businesses, startups, academia, and governments work together to drive progress. Such collaborations foster knowledge sharing, accelerate innovation, and create synergies that benefit all parties involved.

Engaging in these ecosystems allows companies to tap into diverse perspectives and resources, fueling their growth and adaptability.

Conclusion

The next innovation cycle presents both challenges and opportunities. Companies that proactively adapt, embrace technological advancements, and prioritize sustainability and learning will not only navigate the complexities of this new era but thrive within it. By fostering resilience, leveraging data responsibly, and engaging in collaborative ecosystems, businesses can build a future-ready foundation poised for sustained success. 

This Is a Cycle for the Builders Who Care! The next innovation cycle isn’t just about what you can make, it's about why you’re making it, how you build it, and who benefits from it.

If you’re building something right now, you’re doing it in one of the most exciting (and challenging) environments in decades. There’s more noise, more tools, more complexity. But there’s also more need, more urgency, and more opportunity to lead with purpose.

Liquidity Along the Path to Exits: Smart Moves for Founders and Investors

Understanding Liquidity Before the Exit

For years, liquidity in startups meant one thing: wait for the big exit. Whether through an IPO or an acquisition, that was the long game for everyone involved: founders, employees, and investors alike. But today’s startup landscape is different. Companies are staying private longer. Funding cycles have expanded. And liquidity, once a distant milestone, is becoming a necessary tool along the way. In this post, we will explore how liquidity works before the exit, the options available to founders and early stakeholders, and what you need to consider if you're building or investing in a company with a long road to a traditional exit.

Why Liquidity Matters More Than Ever

Startups are maturing differently now. Ten years ago, companies like Facebook went public in under a decade. Today, many high-growth businesses operate privately for 10, even 15 years. That long timeline can make it difficult for early employees and investors to access any return on their equity, often their most valuable asset. 

Pre-exit liquidity. It's become a lifeline for founders and team members looking to fund new ventures, pay taxes on stock options, or simply achieve personal financial goals. For investors, it’s a way to de-risk a long-term position without abandoning support for the company.

The Rise of Secondary Transactions

One of the most common ways to unlock liquidity is through secondary sales, when existing shareholders sell their shares to new investors.

Secondary sales don’t generate capital for the company, but they do serve a vital purpose: allowing founders, employees, and early backers to realize value without forcing a company into an early exit.

Platforms like CartaX, Forge, and EquityZen have made this easier by streamlining transactions and verifying pricing. Secondary markets are now playing a bigger role in the startup economy, especially in later-stage companies where demand from outside investors remains high.

Equity-Backed Loans: Borrowing Without Selling

Another liquidity option gaining traction is loans backed by startup equity. In this model, individuals use their shares as collateral to access cash, often without selling a single share.

Here’s how it works:

• A founder or early employee borrows from a lender based on the current valuation of their equity.

• The loan typically carries interest and is structured to be repaid at the time of an eventual exit or liquidity event.

• Some companies even offer internal lending programs as a benefit to key team members.

While this option avoids dilution and keeps cap tables intact, it does carry risks, especially if the company’s valuation drops or an exit is delayed. Still, for those confident in the future of their startup, it’s a compelling way to stay invested and financially flexible.

Private Equity as a New Liquidity Channel

Traditionally, private equity firms entered the picture much later, usually post-exit. But today, many PE firms are acquiring minority stakes in growth-stage startups, offering direct liquidity to founders and early investors.

This approach has become especially appealing in tech. Firms like KKR, General Atlantic, and Insight Partners are investing in companies that may not go public for years but have strong fundamentals and clear revenue models. These investments give the startup fuel to grow, while giving shareholders a chance to take some chips off the table.

Best Practices for Startup Liquidity

If you're considering liquidity for yourself or your team, here are a few best practices to keep in mind:

1. Get Clear on the Company’s Position: Liquidity should support growth, not signal weakness. Ensure the company is in a strong financial and strategic position before exploring options.

2. Protect the Cap Table: Too many secondary sales or poorly timed loans can impact the cap table and scare off future investors. Maintain transparency and cap table hygiene.

3. Understand the Tax Implications: Secondary sales and equity-backed loans can have complex tax consequences. Involve a tax advisor early in the process.

4. Communicate with Stakeholders: Be transparent with your board, co-founders, and team. Liquidity decisions affect everyone, not just the seller.

Final Thoughts: Liquidity Is Now Part of the Growth Journey

Liquidity is no longer a one-time event at the end of a company’s story—it’s now a thoughtful part of the journey. Founders don’t need to wait a decade to see the value they’ve built. Employees shouldn’t have to walk away from great companies just to pay down loans or fund life goals.

As long as it’s managed with care, liquidity can strengthen startups, fuel new ventures, and keep everyone motivated along the way.

Why Traditional Insurance Companies Should Embrace Venture Studios: Insights from Mandalore Partners

The insurance industry, traditionally characterized by caution and risk aversion, is facing unprecedented challenges from technological advancements and changing consumer expectations. To remain competitive, insurance companies must innovate—and venture studios offer a compelling pathway.​

The Need for Innovation in Insurance

Emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, are disrupting traditional insurance models. Consumers now demand personalized, digital-first experiences, and new entrants are capitalizing on these trends. To keep pace, insurers must explore innovative solutions.​

Mandalore Partners provides a Venture Capital-as-a-Service (VCaaS) model that enables insurance companies to incubate startups focused on insurtech solutions. This approach allows insurers to experiment with new products and distribution channels without disrupting core operations.​

Real-World Applications: Success Stories

Several insurance companies have successfully engaged with venture studios:​

• AmFam Ventures: Developed by American Family Insurance, this venture studio focuses on insurtech innovations, providing both minority investments and majority ownership in startups to better serve stakeholders.

• ARK Venture Studio: Combining a venture studio, think tank, and venture fund, ARK builds insurance-enabled businesses to tackle systemic risks to people and the planet.

Strategic Advantages for Insurers

Engaging with a venture studio offers multiple benefits:​

• Accelerated Innovation: Rapid development of new products and services.​

• Risk Management: Controlled experimentation minimizes potential disruptions.

• New Revenue Streams: Venture studios allow exploration of adjacent business models.

• Future-Proofing: Adapting to tech shifts before they become industry standards.

For insurers looking to thrive in a fast-evolving landscape, venture studios represent not just a trend—but a strategic imperative.

From Paris to Singapore: Mandalore Partners' Cross-Border Approach to Venture Building

In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to navigate diverse markets is crucial for startup success. Mandalore Partners leverages a cross-border approach to venture building, fostering innovation that transcends geographical boundaries.​

The Importance of Cross-Border Collaboration

Cross-border collaboration enables startups to tap into new markets, access diverse talent pools, and leverage varied regulatory environments. By understanding and adapting to different cultural and business contexts, venture studios can create solutions with global relevance.​

Mandalore Partners operates from Paris to Singapore, embodying this global perspective. Their partnerships, such as with Temasek's Menyala, highlight the benefits of cross-border collaboration in accessing new markets and talent pools.​

Real-World Applications: Success Stories

Several venture studios have successfully implemented cross-border strategies:​

• X, The Moonshot Factory: Formerly Google X, this venture studio focuses on ambitious projects with global impact, such as self-driving cars and delivery drones.

• FasterCapital: This venture studio emphasizes cross-border partnerships, enabling startups to scale across borders by aligning with overseas partners and tapping into diverse markets. 

Strategic Advantages of a Global Approach

Adopting a cross-border approach offers multiple benefits:​

• Market Diversification: Reducing dependency on a single market.​

• Talent Acquisition: Accessing a broader pool of skills and expertise.​

• Innovation Synergy: Combining diverse perspectives to foster creativity.​

• Regulatory Navigation: Understanding and leveraging different regulatory environments.​

The Future of Global Venture Building

As globalization continues to shape the business landscape, venture studios like Mandalore Partners are well-positioned to drive innovation that resonates across borders, fostering startups that are both locally grounded and globally scalable.​

Beyond Capital: How Mandalore Partners Drives Value Creation in Venture Studios

While capital investment is a cornerstone of startup development, the venture studio model offers a more holistic approach to value creation. By providing strategic guidance, operational support, and access to networks, venture studios like Mandalore Partners play a pivotal role in nurturing startups from inception to success.​

The Comprehensive Support of Venture Studios

Unlike traditional venture capital firms, venture studios are deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of startups. They assist in assembling founding teams, refining business models, and navigating market challenges. This hands-on approach ensures that startups are well-equipped to achieve product-market fit and scale effectively

Mandalore Partners exemplifies this model by offering a suite of services beyond funding. From strategic mentorship to market insights and talent acquisition, Mandalore ensures that each project is poised for success.​

Real-World Applications: Success Stories

Several venture studios have demonstrated the value of comprehensive support.
High Alpha: Combining company building with venture funding, High Alpha partners with corporations to bring ideas to market, providing resources and support needed for growth. 

• FutureSight: This venture studio focuses on forming new ventures, creating significant equity value through its operation as a co-founder, and providing strategic and operational support.

Strategic Advantages for Startups

Engaging with a venture studio offers multiple benefits:​

• Accelerated Development: Streamlined processes from ideation to execution.​

• Expertise Access: Guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts.​

• Resource Optimization: Efficient allocation of resources and capital.​

• Network Leverage: Connections to potential partners, customers, and investors.

The Future of Value Creation

As the startup ecosystem becomes increasingly competitive, the comprehensive support offered by venture studios like Mandalore Partners will be instrumental in driving sustained growth and innovation.​

The Art of Venture Building: Lessons from Mandalore Partners in Healthcare Innovation

The healthcare sector is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by the need for patient-centric solutions and the integration of technology. Traditional models often struggle to keep pace with these demands, leading to the rise of venture studios as catalysts for innovation.​

Venture Studios: A New Paradigm in Healthcare

Venture studios systematically create startups by combining internal resources, entrepreneurial talent, and capital. In healthcare, this model enables the rapid development and deployment of solutions that address pressing challenges.​

Mandalore Partners exemplifies this approach, leveraging its Venture Capital-as-a-Service (VCaaS) model to collaborate with healthcare providers, payers, and tech innovators. By focusing on preventive care, telemedicine, and personalized treatment plans, Mandalore ensures that new healthcare solutions are both clinically effective and economically viable.​

Real-World Applications: Success Stories

Several venture studios have made significant strides in healthcare innovation:

• Redesign Health: This venture studio specializes in launching transformative healthcare companies, addressing systemic issues through innovative solutions. ​

• Terrarium: Partnered with Wellstar Health, Terrarium focuses on building companies and spinning them out, conducting proof-of-concepts and pilots to address major healthcare problems. 

• Atlantic Health System's Venture Studio: Part of a four-pronged approach to innovation, this studio supports new ideas and strategies from within, understanding that technology is a tool, not a solution.

Strategic Advantages for Healthcare

Adopting a venture studio approach offers multiple benefits:​

• Accelerated Innovation: Rapid development and testing of new ideas.​

• Risk Mitigation: Controlled experimentation minimizes disruptions.​

• Talent Acquisition: Access to innovative thinkers and specialized skills.​

• Market Expansion: Exploration of new markets and customer segments.​

The Future of Healthcare Innovation

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, venture studios like Mandalore Partners are at the forefront, driving innovation and ensuring that patient outcomes and operational efficiency go hand in hand.​

Navigating the New Frontier: How Venture Studios Are Reshaping Corporate Innovation

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, traditional corporations face mounting pressure to innovate swiftly and effectively. The conventional methods of internal R&D and isolated innovation labs often fall short in delivering the agility and entrepreneurial spirit required to stay competitive. Enter the venture studio model—a transformative approach that's redefining corporate innovation.​

The Venture Studio Model: A Catalyst for Innovation

A venture studio, also known as a startup studio or venture builder, systematically creates startups by combining internal resources, entrepreneurial talent, and capital. Unlike traditional accelerators or incubators, venture studios take a hands-on approach, from ideation to execution, ensuring alignment with strategic corporate objectives.​

Mandalore Partners exemplifies this model through its Venture Capital-as-a-Service (VCaaS) approach. By partnering with corporations, especially in sectors like insurance and healthcare, Mandalore facilitates the development of innovative ventures that address specific industry challenges. This collaborative model allows companies to explore new business avenues without diverting focus from their core operations.​

Real-World Applications: Success Stories

Several corporations have embraced the venture studio model to drive innovation:​

• P&G Ventures: Procter & Gamble's venture studio focuses on creating new brands and products outside its traditional portfolio, leveraging internal expertise and external entrepreneurial talent.

• Redesign Health: This venture studio specializes in launching transformative healthcare companies, addressing systemic issues through innovative solutions.

• ARK Venture Studio: Combining a venture studio, think tank, and venture fund, ARK builds companies tackling systemic risks to people and the planet, including health and wellness challenges.

These examples underscore the versatility and effectiveness of the venture studio model across various industries.​

Strategic Advantages for Corporations

Adopting a venture studio approach offers multiple benefits:​

• Accelerated Innovation: By integrating entrepreneurial methodologies, corporations can rapidly develop and test new ideas.​

• Risk Mitigation: Venture studios allow for experimentation in a controlled environment, minimizing potential disruptions to core business operations.​

• Talent Acquisition: Engaging with startups provides access to a pool of innovative thinkers and specialized skills.​

• Market Expansion: Studios can explore new markets and customer segments, driving growth beyond traditional boundaries.​

The Future of Corporate Innovation

As industries continue to evolve, the venture studio model stands out as a robust framework for sustained innovation. By fostering a culture of entrepreneurship within corporate structures, companies can remain agile, competitive, and responsive to emerging trends.​

How Kevin Ryan Built AlleyCorp: A Venture Studio Blueprint Powering NYC’s Startup Ecosystem

Methodology: A Deep Dive into the Venture Studio Model and Kevin Ryan’s Track Record

This case study draws from verified public records, interviews, press releases, and market reports covering Kevin Ryan’s business ventures, the operational structure of AlleyCorp, and outcomes from the startups it has helped launch. The analysis highlights strategic patterns, shared methodologies, and actionable insights for ecosystem builders, founders, and early-stage investors.

In Brief: What You’ll Learn

• Kevin Ryan’s approach to building companies, not just funding them, has reshaped New York’s tech scene.

• AlleyCorp combines in-house innovation with hands-on operational support to reduce risk and accelerate startup success.

• The studio has produced breakout companies like MongoDB, Business Insider, and Nomad Health.

• With a $250M fund, AlleyCorp is proving that the venture studio model is more than a trend, it's a system.

• This case offers a clear framework for replicating the venture studio model in emerging ecosystems.

Full Article

Kevin Ryan scaled his first startup into a billion-dollar exit then built an engine for more

In the late 1990s, Kevin Ryan helped transform DoubleClick into a digital advertising giant. That journey ended in a $1.1 billion sale, later folded into Google for $3.1 billion. But Ryan didn’t walk away after one success. He asked a bigger question: What if we could build high-potential startups systematically?

He launched AlleyCorp to make entrepreneurship repeatable and infrastructure-driven

Unlike traditional investors who wait for promising founders to pitch them, AlleyCorp starts at zero with original ideas, internal teams, and shared resources. This model allows it to move quickly from concept to execution, while minimizing the typical startup risks. It’s not just capital. It’s co-creation.

AlleyCorp combines a venture studio’s rigor with a seed fund’s agility

AlleyCorp operates on two complementary tracks:

• Studio arm: Generates startup ideas internally, recruits founding teams, and offers full-stack support.

• Seed fund: Invests in external startups, often as the first check in.

This dual model allows it to both create and accelerate companies, maintaining long-term involvement across the board. In 2024, AlleyCorp raised $250 million in its first fund with outside LPs, a strong endorsement of both its results and model.

The model is validated by some of NYC’s biggest startup wins

AlleyCorp’s portfolio reads like a greatest hits list in New York tech:

Each of these companies was either co-founded or backed early by AlleyCorp, and each addressed a real market inefficiency with bold, tech-enabled solutions.

How AlleyCorp builds smarter, faster, and with more support than typical startups

Key advantages of the AlleyCorp model:

• Centralized services: Legal, HR, design, and tech resources are shared, reducing startup friction.

• Speed to market: In-house teams move faster than founder-led ideas alone.

• Operator involvement: Kevin Ryan and senior leadership stay hands-on throughout each startup’s lifecycle.

• Market-first mindset: Instead of chasing trends, AlleyCorp tackles real gaps with measurable demand.

This ecosystem helps new founders avoid classic early-stage pitfalls—while giving investors better odds of success.

The venture studio model offers a clear roadmap for other startup ecosystems

The AlleyCorp story isn’t just about one founder, it’s about what’s possible when innovation is treated as a process, not luck. And that has big implications for other cities and regions.

Startups don’t need to emerge randomly. With:

• A structured ideation process

• Access to senior operators

• Pooled resources across ventures

• Localized industry knowledge

Venture studios can help emerging markets replicate success whether in East Africa, Southeast Asia, or mid-sized U.S. cities.

Final Thought: Kevin Ryan didn’t wait for unicorns, he designed a system to build them

AlleyCorp shows that startup creation doesn’t have to be chaotic or founder-dependent. When experienced builders partner with talent early, and provide structure at every step, great companies can be built more predictably.

For anyone looking to nurture a stronger innovation ecosystem, this model offers a roadmap, and a reason to believe that big success can come from focused, local effort.

Menyala & le modèle Venture Studio : une nouvelle approche de l’innovation stratégique

Qu’est-ce qu’un Venture Studio ?

Un Venture Studio, ou startup studio, est une structure qui conçoit, développe et lance des startups de manière systématique. Contrairement à un incubateur ou à un fonds d’investissement traditionnel, il agit comme un cofondateur actif : il génère les idées, construit les équipes, fournit les ressources nécessaires (technologie, financement, marketing) et accompagne les projets de leur conception à leur lancement.​

L’objectif est de réduire l’incertitude liée à l’innovation et de maximiser les chances de succès des nouvelles entreprises.​

Menyala : le studio d’innovation lancé par Temasek

Basé à Singapour, Menyala est un Venture Studio fondé avec le soutien de Temasek, un important investisseur institutionnel asiatique. Sa mission est d’anticiper les grandes transitions technologiques et de construire des solutions innovantes.​

Parmi ses domaines d’intervention prioritaires :​menyala.com+11techinasia.com+11menyala.com+11

• Finance décentralisée et infrastructures numériques

• Cybersécurité et souveraineté technologique

• Transition énergétique et climat

• Web3 et innovations de rupture​

Menyala ne se contente pas d’identifier les tendances : il lance activement des startups, structure leur développement et les positionne sur des marchés globaux.​

Pourquoi ce modèle nous inspire chez Mandalore Partners ?

Chez Mandalore Partners, nous croyons en un modèle intégré de croissance : créer, investir et faire grandir des entreprises alignées avec les enjeux de demain.​

Le modèle Venture Studio, et en particulier celui de Menyala, incarne une vision proche de la nôtre :​

• Stratégie dès le départ : les idées sont testées, modélisées, ajustées.

• Exécution rigoureuse : les équipes disposent des bons outils, mentors et ressources.

• Connexion au monde réel : chaque startup est conçue pour répondre à un besoin réel du marché.

• Réduction des risques : les erreurs classiques du "from scratch" sont limitées grâce à la mutualisation des compétences.​

Une opportunité pour les grands groupes : innover hors cadre

Le Venture Studio est également un outil stratégique pour les grandes entreprises. Souvent, les initiatives d’intrapreneuriat peinent à dépasser les limites de l’organisation. Le Venture Studio offre un cadre indépendant, agile et orienté vers les résultats, tout en maintenant un lien fort avec l’entreprise mère.​

Menyala en est un exemple : il bénéficie de la vision à long terme de Temasek, tout en conservant une autonomie entrepreneuriale forte.​

Les Grandes Tendances de l'Intelligence Artificielle en 2025

L’intelligence artificielle (IA) connaît une accélération sans précédent en 2025, transformant de nombreux secteurs et soulevant des débats majeurs. Entre avancées technologiques spectaculaires, enjeux éthiques et bouleversements économiques, l’IA redéfinit notre quotidien. Voici une synthèse des tendances les plus marquantes de l’année.

1. L'IA Générative Atteint un Nouveau Palier

Les modèles d’IA générative, comme ceux développés par OpenAI, Google DeepMind et Anthropic, sont devenus plus performants et polyvalents. En 2025, ces intelligences artificielles :

• Créent des vidéos ultra-réalistes en quelques secondes.

• Génèrent du code informatique de manière autonome.

• Produisent des œuvres artistiques et musicales d’une qualité inédite.

Ces avancées posent néanmoins des questions sur le respect du droit d’auteur et l’authenticité des contenus numériques.

2. L’IA et la Désinformation : Une Menace Accrue

Avec la montée en puissance des outils d’IA capables de générer des textes et des images indiscernables de la réalité, la lutte contre la désinformation est devenue une priorité mondiale. Les principaux enjeux :

• La prolifération des deepfakes en politique et dans les médias.

• Les modèles d’IA produisant des réponses biaisées ou erronées.

• Le développement de nouvelles solutions de détection et de vérification des contenus.

Les gouvernements et les grandes entreprises technologiques investissent massivement dans la régulation et l’authentification des contenus numériques.

3. L’IA dans la Santé : Vers une Révolution Médicale

L’intelligence artificielle bouleverse le domaine médical, améliorant considérablement les diagnostics et la personnalisation des traitements. En 2025 :

• Des modèles prédictifs permettent de détecter des maladies avant même l’apparition des premiers symptômes.

• L’IA assiste les chirurgiens en temps réel, réduisant les risques opératoires.

• De nouveaux médicaments sont développés plus rapidement grâce à l’analyse de milliards de données biomédicales.

Ces innovations pourraient prolonger l’espérance de vie et rendre les soins de santé plus accessibles.

4. L’IA et le Travail : Une Transformation Inévitable

L’automatisation des tâches grâce à l’IA modifie profondément le marché du travail. Certains secteurs sont particulièrement touchés :

• La finance et l’assurance, où les IA remplacent les analystes pour des prises de décision plus rapides.

• Le marketing, avec des campagnes publicitaires entièrement générées par des intelligences artificielles.

• Le journalisme, où les articles générés automatiquement se multiplient.

Cependant, cette évolution crée aussi de nouvelles opportunités et demande aux travailleurs d’acquérir de nouvelles compétences en IA.

5. L’IA et l’Art : Un Nouveau Terrain d’Expression

L’IA redéfinit la création artistique. En 2025, les artistes collaborent de plus en plus avec des intelligences artificielles pour explorer de nouvelles formes d’expression. On observe :

• Une explosion des œuvres générées par l’IA dans le domaine du cinéma et de la musique.

• Des galeries d’art dédiées aux créations algorithmiques.

• Un débat éthique sur la place de l’IA dans la créativité humaine.

Certains artistes voient l’IA comme un outil d’inspiration, tandis que d’autres craignent une dévalorisation de leur travail.

6. La Régulation de l’IA : Un Défi Global

Face aux enjeux soulevés par l’IA, les gouvernements accélèrent la mise en place de régulations. En 2025, plusieurs lois et cadres juridiques ont vu le jour :

• L’Union européenne impose un cadre strict pour les applications sensibles de l’IA.

• Les États-Unis renforcent la transparence des modèles d’IA utilisés par les entreprises.

• La Chine développe ses propres normes pour encadrer l’IA dans les services publics et militaires.

L’objectif est de garantir un développement responsable de ces technologies sans freiner l’innovation.

7. L’IA dans l’Éducation : Apprendre Autrement

L’apprentissage assisté par IA est devenu une réalité en 2025. Les plateformes éducatives utilisent des algorithmes pour :

• Adapter les cours au rythme et aux besoins de chaque élève.

• Automatiser la correction des examens.

• Simuler des expériences interactives pour un apprentissage immersif.

Cette transformation pose toutefois des questions sur la place des enseignants et l’impact de ces technologies sur les méthodes pédagogiques traditionnelles.

Conclusion

L’année 2025 marque une nouvelle étape décisive dans l’évolution de l’intelligence artificielle. Son intégration dans tous les aspects de notre vie entraîne autant d’opportunités que de défis. La question reste ouverte : comment concilier progrès technologique et responsabilités éthiques ?

L’IA façonne déjà le futur, et il est essentiel de suivre son évolution pour mieux comprendre ses impacts et s’y préparer.

Mandalore Fintech Venture Map 2025

Methodology

This Fintech Venture Map brings together the best fintech maps available online in 2025 to create a clear and insightful overview of the financial technology ecosystem. From the essential infrastructure powering innovation - APIs, cloud computing - to the specialized services shaping the future of finance, including digital banking, payments, insurance, lending, and investment solutions, this map highlights the key players and trends driving the industry forward.

In Brief

The fintech ecosystem, structured like a building, is built on strong regulatory foundations (RegTech) and rises through robust technical infrastructures (APIs & Infra). Between these two pillars, core universal services—Digital Banking, Payments—and specialized services—Insurance, Lending—are interwoven, alongside solutions for businesses, investment, and sustainable finance, forming a comprehensive system serving both individuals and enterprises.

An infrastructure serving the entire ecosystem

At the core of the fintech revolution lies financial infrastructure and APIs, serving as the essential technological framework enabling seamless transactions, data sharing, and financial services innovation. Open banking, cloud computing, and API-driven connectivity empower fintech companies to build next-generation solutions, from digital wallets to embedded finance. Without this backbone, modern financial services wouldn’t be possible.

That  powers the financial services people use every day

Banking & Digital Financial Services - The transformation of banking and digital financial services is the heart of fintech, replacing traditional brick-and-mortar banking with fully digital experiences. Challenger banks, neobanks, and digital-first financial institutions now offer instant account opening, AI-driven financial management, and 24/7 mobile banking services, reshaping how people interact with money.

Payments & Transaction Processing - From mobile payments to cross-border money transfers, payments and transaction processing are the engines of digital commerce. Innovations such as real-time payments (RTP), buy now, pay later (BNPL), blockchain-based transfers, and contactless payments have revolutionized the way consumers and businesses send and receive money, ensuring fast, secure, and frictionless transactions.

These services rely on specialized solutions that address specific needs

InsurTech – A rapidly growing fintech segment, it is modernizing the insurance industry through AI-powered risk assessment, on-demand policies, and automated claims processing. With the rise of embedded insurance and personalized coverage, InsurTech is making insurance more accessible, efficient, and tailored to consumer needs.

Lending & Credit - The lending and credit sector within fintech is revolutionizing how individuals and businesses access financing. Through alternative credit scoring, peer-to-peer lending, and AI-driven loan underwriting, fintech lenders are providing faster, more inclusive, and more flexible financing options compared to traditional banks. Whether it’s personal loans, business credit, or BNPL solutions, fintech is reshaping the lending landscape.

Where all these services converge at the enterprise level

Corporate & Business Finance - At the intersection of fintech advancements, corporate and business finance solutions integrate banking, payments, lending, and investment technologies to optimize cash flow, automate accounting, and support financial decision-making. Fintech tools such as AI-powered financial planning, automated invoicing, and embedded treasury solutions help businesses operate more efficiently and scale with confidence.

Businesses must balance financial performance with responsibility

ESG & Sustainable Finance - As businesses and investors prioritize sustainability, ESG and sustainable finance have become essential components of the fintech landscape. From green bonds and impact investing to carbon footprint tracking tools, fintech is enabling companies and individuals to make financially and ethically responsible decisions.

WealthTech & Investment - Fintech is reshaping investment strategies with WealthTech solutions, making asset management more accessible through robo-advisors, AI-driven portfolio management, fractional investing, and cryptocurrency trading platforms. With lower costs, real-time insights, and algorithmic optimization, WealthTech is democratizing investment opportunities for individuals and institutions alike.

Under the watchful eye of a crucial safeguard

RegTech & Compliance - Fintech’s rapid growth demands robust regulatory technology and compliance solutions to prevent fraud, ensure financial transparency, and meet global regulatory standards. AI-powered KYC, AML, and real-time transaction monitoring are critical to maintaining trust and security in financial services. Without compliance, fintech innovation cannot thrive.

Some Fintech Maps spotted on the web

February 2025 : Venture Studios: Driving Innovation and Facing Strategic Challenges

As the venture studio model continues to gain traction worldwide, new initiatives are emerging across industries, focusing on innovation in energy storage, healthtech, and pet care, while some face financial and strategic challenges. This article explores the latest developments shaping the venture studio ecosystem.

GenLab Launches Silicon Valley Venture Studio for Energy Storage Innovation

On February 11, 2025, GenLab Venture Studios announced the launch of a new venture studio in Silicon Valley aimed at driving innovation in energy storage and AI infrastructure. With artificial intelligence increasingly demanding energy-intensive processing, this initiative seeks to alleviate pressure on national power grids by developing next-generation storage solutions.

The studio, led by CTO Sarah Novotny, will focus on creating advanced grid resilience technologies that ensure energy efficiency and sustainability. Leveraging cutting-edge agentic AI, GenLab aims to enhance energy storage capabilities for data centers and industrial applications, positioning itself as a key player in the clean energy transition.

Company Ventures Unveils Terrarium Venture Studio to Support Healthtech Startups

On February 18, 2025, Company Ventures, in collaboration with innovation consultancy Cactus and Wellstar Health System, launched Terrarium, a new venture studio focused on incubating startups in the health technology sector.

Terrarium plans to support up to ten startups over the next three years, with an emphasis on market validation through research-driven development. The first startup emerging from this initiative, Rota Health, is dedicated to solving healthcare data interoperability issues by leveraging artificial intelligence to streamline medical data integration.

By providing mentorship, funding, and strategic partnerships, Terrarium aims to bridge gaps in healthcare innovation and accelerate the adoption of transformative digital health solutions.

Leap Venture Studio Announces Ninth Cohort for Pet Care Startups

Leap Venture Studio & Academy, a leading accelerator program for pet care startups, has announced its ninth cohort, providing six innovative companies with funding, mentorship, and business development support.

The program, running from February to May 2025, will conclude with a Demo Day in London. Participating startups, including BistroCat, Buddy Bites, Happy Howl, James & Ella, Oh Norman!, and Otis, are pioneering new approaches in pet wellness, nutrition, and AI-driven pet care solutions.

With increasing consumer demand for premium pet products and services, Leap Venture Studio continues to foster high-growth companies that redefine the pet industry.

Avandra Raises $17.75 Million to Advance Real-World Medical Data Utilization

Avandra, a federated network specializing in medical imaging and clinical data, has successfully secured $17.75 million in funding to expand its data-sharing platform. The round, co-led by Aegis Ventures and SpringRock Ventures, will enable Avandra to enhance its data infrastructure and form new partnerships with leading healthcare providers.

The company’s mission is to improve real-world data accessibility for medical researchers and biopharmaceutical companies, accelerating drug development and personalized medicine. By leveraging AI and machine learning, Avandra aims to bridge the gap between raw medical data and actionable insights, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

54 Collective to Shut Down African Venture Studio Operations

Despite the growing global momentum of venture studios, not all initiatives thrive. 54 Collective, formerly known as Founders Factory Africa, has announced the closure of its venture studio operations on the continent, citing strategic shifts and funding challenges.

The decision comes as the organization’s partnership with the Mastercard Foundation is set to end in April 2025. This shift marks a significant change in the African startup ecosystem, raising concerns about the sustainability of venture-backed innovation models in emerging markets.

As Africa continues to develop its entrepreneurial landscape, the closure of 54 Collective highlights the ongoing funding constraints that many venture studios face, emphasizing the need for sustainable financing models to support long-term startup growth.

NEC X Partners with Carbide Ventures to Accelerate Early-Stage Startups

Silicon Valley-based NEC X has announced a strategic partnership with Carbide Ventures to boost early-stage startups. This collaboration aims to provide emerging companies with crucial resources, industry expertise, and mentorship to help transform promising ideas into scalable businesses.

By leveraging NEC X’s technical expertise and Carbide Ventures’ experience in startup acceleration, the partnership seeks to drive innovation across multiple sectors, including AI, robotics, and deep tech. This initiative underscores the growing role of venture studios in bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and commercial success.

What are the key success factors of Venture Studios ?

Venture studios are transforming the startup ecosystem with their unique approach to company building—one that combines funding, hands-on support, and structured execution. A recent in-depth analysis from the Big Venture Studio Research 2024 (Authors: Maksim Malyy, PhD; Max Pog & Contributors) illuminates the key success factors in this model. We, at Mandalore Partners, analyzed the latest findings, revealing both the strengths and challenges of venture studios today.

In Short: 

Venture studios are redefining startup creation by combining funding, hands-on support, and structured execution. They typically invest $130,000 for 17% equity, positioning themselves between accelerators and VC funds. However, success is elusive, 76% of startups fail, and exits take over seven years on average. Key success factors include experienced founders, strategic use of Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs), and efficient MVP development. Studios that combine consulting services with startup-building and maintain lower equity stakes outperform pure-play models. Ultimately, studios follow two paths: stable, predictable growth or high-risk, disruptive innovation. The future of venture studios depends on mastering this balance.

A Standardized Model Focused on Startup Building

Modern venture studios operate under a distinct framework. Most follow a pure-play model, focusing exclusively on launching startups rather than diversifying into corporate partnerships or fund management. While typically sector-agnostic, they commonly operate in Health, B2B SaaS, Fintech, and Sustainability. The venture studio boom centers primarily in the US and Europe, with most adopting a single studio model—operating without an associated VC fund backing.

Venture Studios Invest Early for Meaningful Equity

Venture studios typically invest an average of $130,000 per startup for 17% equity, acting as active, early-stage investors. Their startups begin with a pre-seed valuation of $1.09 million, positioning them between accelerators and traditional venture capital funds. This investment level secures a meaningful stake while preserving room for future investors.

High Failure Rates and Long Exit Timelines Define the Game

Despite their support structure, venture studios face significant challenges. They see a 24% exit to 76% failure ratio—meaning three of four studio-backed startups fail. Let’s be precise on that point: success here was defined as any startup that did not go bankrupt.

Exits take time, averaging 7.11 years, typically through VC exit. The process is highly selective: studios review 200 ideas, develop 40 MVPs, yet only one reaches an exit - an exit was defined here as any occurrence of a liquidity event, quite a broad definition. Adding to these challenges is a negative valuation growth trend - obviously negative as 76% of startups fail - with startups losing an average of -$0.14 million per year in value, when VC funds are at -$0.12 million per year.

Support Services are common, but Market Execution is Key

Entrepreneurs in Residence are vital to venture studio success, contributing during the early ideation phase or during the creation phase. Leading studios offer comprehensive support services: advisors and go-to-market (GTM) assistance appear in 91% of studios, while operational and technical development support exists in more than 80%. Over 70% of studios provide access to first customers and financial resources. Yet despite these advantages, negative valuation growth indicates that strong operational support alone isn't sufficient—market execution remains crucial.

Hybrid Studios See Higher Survival Rates

Success varies significantly among venture studios. Those combining consulting or corporate services with startup-building achieve an impressive survival ratio, outperforming pure-play studios. Studios being vertical agnostic achieve a 19% success rate.

Scale significantly influences success. Studios launching between four and seven ventures yearly outperform those with lower output. At 30 ventures or more, success rates climb, highlighting the importance of operational experience and network effects. Equity structure also matters—studios keeping less than 20% equity achieve the highest success rates at 33%, likely by leaving adequate room for future investors.

Founder experience proves crucial. Studios recruiting founders with previous startup exits show better outcomes. Timing of EIR integration is also key—69% of studios with successful exits brought in EIRs during the creation phase, versus 46% among those without exits. This suggests that well-timed entrepreneurial leadership significantly impacts scaling and funding success.

Efficient MVP Development Increases Startup Survival

Product development efficiency strongly indicates success potential. Studios keeping MVP development costs under $50,000 achieve a 15% success rate, demonstrating lean development's advantages. Time of execution matters—MVPs launched within six to twelve months achieve a 21% success rate, higher than those launched in less than six months. Studios delivering fully functional, market-ready MVPs rather than prototypes reach 19% success rates, emphasizing the importance of quality execution.

Two Roads Diverge: Play It Safe or Go All In on Disruption

Research reveals two distinct strategic approaches. The first strategy prioritizes stable returns, focusing on predictable growth over high-risk bets. These studios target sustainable business creation through corporate focus or steady niche market growth. This approach offers lower but more predictable returns, suiting new studios without significant competitive advantages.

The second strategy embraces disruption and high-risk ventures, aiming to create breakthrough companies through cutting-edge technology, innovative business models, or exceptional talent. While offering potential for massive returns, this path carries a high failure rate and demands unique competitive advantages. Research suggests newcomers should start with the stable returns strategy before attempting disruptive startups.

The Future of Venture Studios Lies in Execution and Adaptation

The data presents clear insights into venture studio evolution and success factors. Despite high failure rates and valuation challenges, top performers follow consistent patterns. Studios that combine startup building with consulting services, maintain low equity stakes, develop MVPs efficiently, and integrate experienced founders strategically consistently outperform peers.

For investors and entrepreneurs, this research provides a clear framework for evaluating venture studio opportunities in 2025 and beyond. With strategic execution, venture studios can continue revolutionizing the startup ecosystem. The key question remains: who will master this model and shape the next generation of successful startups?

Classement des Influenceurs IndustryTech – Janvier 2025

Le secteur de l'IndustryTech, qui combine technologies avancées et industries traditionnelles, continue d'être au cœur des transformations majeures en 2025. Pour mettre en lumière les figures marquantes de ce domaine, nous avons élaboré un classement basé sur leur activité et leur influence sur LinkedIn. Voici les résultats et les enseignements tirés de cette étude.

Méthodologie du Classement

Le classement repose sur deux critères clés :

1. Nombre d'abonnés LinkedIn : Cet indicateur mesure l'audience potentielle de chaque profil.

2. Nombre de publications sur l'IndustryTech en décembre 2024 : Cet élément reflète l'activité et l'engagement des influenceurs sur ce sujet spécifique.

Ces critères nous ont permis d'évaluer la portée et la pertinence des contributions dans le domaine de l'IndustryTech.

Les Résultats du Classement

Analyse des Tendances

1. Un engagement variable mais significatif : Le volume de publications montre une forte disparité entre les profils les plus actifs (comme Minh Q. Tran avec 200 publications) et les moins prolifiques. Toutefois, chaque profil apporte une valeur unique à la conversation IndustryTech.

2. Un rôle central pour LinkedIn : Avec des audiences allant de quelques centaines à plus de 28 000 abonnés, LinkedIn reste un levier puissant pour partager des idées et influencer le secteur.

3. Des contributions diverses : Les thèmes abordés incluent la transformation industrielle, l'industrie 4.0, la robotique, et les écosystèmes durables, illustrant la richesse du domaine.

Pourquoi ce Classement est Important

Le classement des influenceurs IndustryTech est bien plus qu'une simple liste. Il met en lumière les voix qui participent activement à la transformation des industries. En reconnaissant ces contributions, nous espérons encourager encore plus de leaders à partager leurs idées et leurs expériences.

Exploring the Link Between Venture Building and VC-as-a-Service

In the ever-evolving startup ecosystem, two models have emerged as key players in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship: venture building and VC-as-a-Service (Venture Capital-as-a-Service). While their approaches differ significantly, they are interconnected in ways that create synergies and drive value for startups, investors, and corporations alike. This article explores the definitions, differences, and the link between these two models.

What is Venture Building?

Venture building refers to the process of systematically creating startups from scratch within a structured environment, often led by venture studios or startup studios. These studios act as co-founders, providing resources, expertise, and funding to build and launch startups.

Key characteristics of venture building include:

• Idea Generation: Studios identify market gaps and develop startup ideas.

• Operational Involvement: They take an active role in building the team, developing products, and managing operations.

• Shared Resources: Startups benefit from shared infrastructure, such as legal, marketing, and technical support.

• Equity Ownership: Studios typically hold equity in the startups they create.

Venture building minimizes the risk of failure by providing startups with a strong foundation and access to expertise, making it an attractive model for entrepreneurs and investors alike.

What is VC-as-a-Service?

VC-as-a-Service is a model where a venture capital firm offers its expertise and services to manage investments on behalf of external entities, such as corporations, family offices, and institutional investors. Instead of raising a traditional VC fund, these firms act as strategic partners, deploying capital into startups that align with the client’s goals.

Key characteristics of VC-as-a-Service include:

• Customized Investment Strategies: Investments are tailored to the client’s objectives, whether financial returns, strategic innovation, or market access.

• Outsourced Expertise: Clients leverage the VC firm’s network, deal flow, and knowledge without building an internal team.

• Focus on Innovation: Corporations often use VC-as-a-Service to invest in disruptive startups that align with their long-term vision.

This model is particularly appealing to organizations looking to innovate through external investments while mitigating the risks and complexities of direct startup engagement.

How Venture Building and VC-as-a-Service are Linked

Though venture building and VC-as-a-Service serve different purposes, they intersect in several ways, creating opportunities for collaboration and mutual benefit:

1. Complementary Roles in the Startup Ecosystem

• Venture builders focus on creating startups from the ground up, often in the pre-seed or seed stage.

• VC-as-a-Service providers focus on funding and scaling startups, often at later stages.

This complementary relationship allows venture studios to collaborate with VC-as-a-Service firms to secure funding for their portfolio startups, while VC-as-a-Service firms gain access to high-quality, de-risked investment opportunities.

2. Partnerships for Strategic Investment

Venture studios often partner with VC-as-a-Service providers to attract external capital for their startups. For instance:

• A corporation using a VC-as-a-Service model might invest in startups created by a venture studio as part of its innovation strategy.

• Venture studios benefit from these partnerships by securing funding and strategic support for their startups.

3. Integrated Models

Some organizations combine both models under one roof. For example:

• A venture studio may offer VC-as-a-Service to external partners, allowing them to co-invest in the startups the studio creates.

• This hybrid approach aligns the interests of venture builders and investors, creating a streamlined pipeline from startup creation to scaling.

4. Focus on Innovation and Risk Mitigation

Both models aim to foster innovation while reducing risks:

• Venture building reduces the risk of startup failure by providing operational support and expertise.

• VC-as-a-Service diversifies investment risks by spreading capital across multiple startups.

Together, they create a robust ecosystem where startups are not only built but also funded and scaled efficiently.

Key Differences Between Venture Building and VC-as-a-Service :

Conclusion

Venture building and VC-as-a-Service are two distinct yet interconnected models that play vital roles in the startup ecosystem. Venture studios focus on the creation of startups, while VC-as-a-Service enables the funding and scaling of these ventures. Together, they form a powerful combination that drives innovation, reduces risks, and creates value for all stakeholders involved.

As the startup ecosystem continues to evolve, the collaboration between venture builders and VC-as-a-Service providers is likely to grow, creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and corporations to thrive.

Leçons de la mise en sauvegarde d’Ÿnsect : ce que Mandalore IndustryTech fait différemment pour assurer la pérennité de ses investissements

Source : © Ynsect
https://www.reussir.fr/ladepeche/ynsect-leve-des-fonds-et-construit-une-ferme-verticale-pour-sa-production-dinsectes

Le parcours de la start-up française Ÿnsect, autrefois considérée comme un fleuron de l’agri-tech française, a pris un tournant difficile en 2024 lorsqu’elle a été placée en procédure de sauvegarde. Cette démarche, visant à réorganiser ses activités tout en conservant ses emplois et ses dettes, a mis en lumière des défis auxquels sont confrontées de nombreuses start-ups dans les secteurs industriels et technologiques. Ces défis permettent d’identifier des écueils que Mandalore IndustryTech s’efforce d’éviter pour ses propres investissements, en ajustant sa thèse pour une approche plus résiliente et adaptée.

Une vision réaliste et progressive du financement à long terme

L’ambition de Ÿnsect de construire la plus grande ferme verticale d’insectes au monde a nécessité des investissements massifs. Cependant, cette expansion rapide n’a pas permis à l’entreprise d’anticiper suffisamment les besoins de financement à plus long terme, en particulier dans un contexte de marché en ralentissement.

Chez Mandalore IndustryTech, nous intégrons cette leçon en optant pour un accompagnement rigoureux dans la gestion des financements. Nous privilégions des stratégies qui assurent non seulement la levée de fonds initiale mais aussi une planification à long terme, adaptée aux cycles financiers. En conséquence, les entreprises que nous soutenons doivent démontrer une voie vers des revenus autonomes, avec une croissance modulable en fonction de la disponibilité des ressources.

Au lieu de miser sur une expansion rapide comme Ÿnsect, Mandalore IndustryTech propose un accompagnement rigoureux dans la gestion des financements en planifiant sur le long terme.

Maîtrise des opérations industrielles : une priorité stratégique

Ÿnsect s’est lancée dans un projet ambitieux et technologiquement complexe. Mais dans un secteur industriel à forte intensité capitalistique, toute faille dans la chaîne de production ou la logistique peut rapidement devenir coûteuse.

Pour éviter ce type de problème, Mandalore IndustryTech se concentre sur des entreprises qui affichent une solide expertise industrielle et une capacité à gérer leurs opérations de manière stable et efficace. En effet, le fonds cible les startups étrangères de série B+ ou les entreprises de taille moyenne ayant des activités en Europe et cherchant à se développer en France.

Nous encourageons des partenariats industriels dès les premières phases de conception, garantissant que les projets soient soutenus par des acteurs expérimentés. Cela inclut aussi des tests de faisabilité et des études industrielles rigoureuses avant d’engager des investissements significatifs. Le fonds vise à sélectionner des acteurs étrangers capables de s’implanter en Europe à partir de la France. L’objectif est d’investir dans des entreprises souhaitant s’implanter en France pour développer leur marché européen.

Rentabilité et génération de flux de trésorerie : une condition essentielle

Dans le cas de Ÿnsect, une forte croissance n’a pas été suivie par une rentabilité suffisante, rendant la start-up dépendante des financements externes. Cette dépendance peut devenir problématique lorsque les investisseurs adoptent une approche plus conservatrice, comme cela a été le cas ces dernières années.

Mandalore IndustryTech se distingue par son exigence d’un modèle économique clair et viable dès les débuts d’un projet. Nous soutenons des entreprises qui montrent une capacité à générer des flux de trésorerie et qui ne dépendent pas uniquement de financements externes pour survivre. La rentabilité, ou du moins une voie crédible vers celle-ci, est un critère fondamental pour nos investissements, car elle permet aux entreprises de maintenir une certaine autonomie.

À la différence d'Ÿnsect, qui était dépendante des financements externes, Mandalore IndustryTech exige un modèle économique viable dès le départ. Le fonds recherche des entreprises capables de générer des flux de trésorerie et vise un rendement financier de 3x.

Adaptabilité et résilience face aux cycles économiques

La mise en sauvegarde d’Ÿnsect s’inscrit dans un contexte de ralentissement économique où les investisseurs deviennent plus prudents. Cela souligne la nécessité pour une start-up de savoir s’adapter aux fluctuations des cycles économiques.

Pour Mandalore IndustryTech, l’adaptabilité est une qualité essentielle. Nous investissons dans des entreprises capables de moduler leur croissance en fonction des conditions du marché. Cela signifie que nos investissements sont pensés pour offrir des leviers d’ajustement, permettant aux entreprises de naviguer efficacement dans des périodes de ralentissement sans compromettre leur pérennité.

Pour autant qu’il faut savoir moduler sa croissance dans les périodes compliquées, les conditions de marché sont actuellement prometteuses. En effet, le marché américain de l’Industry 4.0 devrait atteindre 9 104 millions de dollars en 2032, contre 5 342 millions de dollars en 2022. L’écosystème des start-ups spécialisées dans l’innovation technologique est florissant aux États-Unis, et de nouvelles opportunités se développent en Europe et en Asie. Les gouvernements locaux investissent massivement dans l’innovation industrielle.

Diversification des marchés et clientèle pour plus de stabilité

Ÿnsect s’est concentrée sur des segments de marché spécifiques, comme l’alimentation animale, limitant ainsi ses options lorsque ces marchés ralentissent. La diversification est un axe clé pour assurer une résilience à long terme.

Mandalore IndustryTech adopte une approche qui encourage la diversification des marchés et des segments de clientèle, afin que les entreprises puissent rebondir face aux imprévus. Nous privilégions des modèles d’affaires qui permettent une certaine flexibilité en termes d’offres et de marchés cibles, assurant ainsi que les entreprises ne soient pas vulnérables à un seul secteur.

Pour éviter les problèmes de concentration rencontrés par Ÿnsect, Mandalore IndustryTech encourage la diversification en ciblant 1000 entreprises technologiques : 40% aux États-Unis, 30% au Japon et 30% dans le reste du monde. Le fonds vise à réaliser 15 à 20 lignes d’investissement, dont 80% avec le bureau de représentation de l’UE pour la commercialisation.

En conclusion : Une approche de Mandalore IndustryTech pour des investissements robustes

La mise en sauvegarde d’Ÿnsect rappelle combien les start-ups doivent faire face à des défis complexes dans des secteurs nécessitant d’importants capitaux. Chez Mandalore IndustryTech, nous avons intégré ces enseignements dans notre thèse d’investissement pour éviter les erreurs qui pourraient compromettre la stabilité de nos participations. En misant sur la planification financière à long terme, la maîtrise opérationnelle, la recherche de rentabilité, l’adaptabilité économique et la diversification, Mandalore IndustryTech vise à construire un portefeuille d’entreprises solides, résilientes et prêtes à traverser les cycles économiques sans perdre de vue leur croissance durable.

Ces principes nous guident pour offrir à nos investisseurs des perspectives de rendement alignées avec une vision de croissance responsable et de pérennité, essentielle dans un contexte de marché en constante évolution.

Corporate Venture as a Service : Un Modèle d’Innovation selon Gartner et la Pratique de Mandalore Partners

Source : Gartner

Dans un monde où l’innovation est devenue essentielle pour répondre aux défis et opportunités des marchés en rapide évolution, les entreprises cherchent des approches efficaces pour intégrer de nouvelles idées et technologies. L’analyse de Gartner sur les modèles d’innovation met en lumière des pratiques structurées comme le Corporate Venture as a Service (CVaaS), un levier puissant pour combiner agilité entrepreneuriale et stratégie d’entreprise. Mandalore Partners, avec son expertise dans l’industrialisation de l’innovation, offre un exemple éclairant de cette approche.

Gartner et le Hype Cycle : Structurer l’Innovation

Selon Gartner, l’innovation doit s’inscrire dans des systèmes structurés pour maximiser son impact. Parmi les méthodes émergentes et éprouvées décrites dans le “Hype Cycle for Innovation Practices”, le modèle de Venture Client et d’autres pratiques similaires, telles que le Minimum Viable Innovation System (MVIS), permettent aux entreprises de collaborer avec des startups tout en minimisant les risques et les coûts. Ces approches se concentrent sur l’accès rapide à des technologies de pointe et à des talents, favorisant ainsi l’agilité et la rapidité d’exécution.

Mandalore Partners : Le Corporate Venture as a Service en Action

Mandalore Partners a développé une méthodologie basée sur le Corporate Venture as a Service, combinant les principes du Venture Client Model avec une approche holistique d’accompagnement. Voici comment :

1. Scouting ciblé des startups

Mandalore Partners identifie des startups alignées sur les besoins spécifiques des entreprises partenaires, en exploitant un réseau mondial et des outils technologiques avancés. En s’appuyant sur des radars technologiques émergents, cette étape permet de réduire le délai entre l’identification d’une opportunité et l’exécution.

2. Co-développement agile

Plutôt que d’intégrer les startups immédiatement, le modèle CVaaS met l’accent sur des projets pilotes rapides pour tester la pertinence des solutions. Mandalore Partners facilite ces tests en assurant un dialogue fluide entre les startups et les équipes internes des entreprises partenaires.

3. Modèle économique flexible

Contrairement aux approches traditionnelles de capital-risque, Mandalore Partners propose des collaborations souples : financements progressifs, partage de revenus ou options d’achat post-pilote. Cela garantit une implication minimale en capital initial tout en maximisant les résultats potentiels.

4. Intégration stratégique

Une fois les solutions validées, elles sont intégrées dans les processus de l’entreprise. Mandalore Partners met en œuvre des stratégies pour harmoniser les cultures organisationnelles, surmonter les résistances internes et pérenniser l’innovation.

Les Avantages de cette Approche

1. Accélération de l’innovation : En collaborant avec des startups spécialisées, les entreprises peuvent accéder à des solutions prêtes à l’emploi.

2. Réduction des risques : Le modèle CVaaS réduit les engagements financiers initiaux, ce qui permet une exploration plus audacieuse.

3. Adaptabilité : L’approche modulaire permet aux entreprises de pivoter rapidement en cas de besoin.

4. Différenciation compétitive : En combinant les ressources internes et externes, les entreprises deviennent plus agiles face aux disruptions.

Gartner et Mandalore Partners : Une Vision Partagée de l’Innovation

Gartner souligne l’importance des collaborations entre entreprises et startups pour maximiser les opportunités d’innovation. Mandalore Partners, avec sa pratique du Corporate Venture as a Service, incarne cette philosophie en aidant les entreprises à transformer les disruptions en avantages concurrentiels.

Pour les organisations prêtes à intégrer l’innovation au cœur de leur stratégie, le modèle CVaaS est une voie prometteuse, alliant souplesse, efficacité et vision à long terme. En combinant les recommandations de Gartner et l’expertise de Mandalore Partners, les entreprises peuvent bâtir un écosystème d’innovation robuste et pérenne.

The Venture Client Model in the Gartner Hype Cycle: A New Era of Corporate Innovation

Source : https://www.eventbrite.sg/e/how-the-venture-client-model-is-revolutionizing-corporate-strategy-tickets-1077442211659

In 2024, the Venture Client Model reached the “Peak of Inflated Expectations” on the Gartner Hype Cycle for New Innovation Practices. This recognition underscores its growing influence as a transformative approach to corporate innovation. However, while the Venture Client Model is making waves, it is important to explore how it complements—or contrasts with—models like Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) as a Service, particularly in the context of Mandalore’s innovation strategies.

What is the Venture Client Model?

The Venture Client Model, pioneered in 2014 by Gregor Gimmy at BMW, focuses on solving corporate challenges by treating startups as suppliers of innovative solutions. Corporations act as paying clients, purchasing and integrating startups’ technologies directly into their operations. Unlike traditional corporate venture capital or innovation programs, this model emphasizes:

• Rapid testing and deployment of startup innovations.

• Transactional relationships without equity investments.

• Focus on immediate operational value rather than long-term financial returns.

By 2024, this model’s inclusion in the Gartner Hype Cycle indicates that it has reached widespread interest but still faces the challenge of proving its sustained value beyond initial excitement.

What is Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) as a Service?

Mandalore’s Corporate Venture Capital as a Service (CVCaaS) model, in contrast, provides corporations with managed investment programs in startups. It offers:

• Equity investments for strategic or financial returns.

• Portfolio management services to identify and nurture high-potential startups.

• A long-term focus on influencing industry trends through strategic ownership.

CVCaaS helps corporations position themselves as stakeholders in emerging technologies while building an ecosystem of innovative startups around their core business.

How the Models Compare

While the Venture Client Model and Mandalore’s CVCaaS have overlapping goals of fostering innovation and startup collaboration, their approaches differ significantly in purpose, implementation, and outcomes. Here’s a side-by-side comparison:

Aspect Venture Client Model CVC as a Service (CVCaaS)

Objective Solve operational challenges through startup solutions. Invest in startups for strategic or financial returns.

Engagement Type Buyer-supplier relationship. Investor-investee relationship.

Risk Low—focused on transaction-level engagement. High—equity investments carry financial risk.

Commitment Short-term, project-based. Long-term equity ownership and influence.

Speed Rapid testing and integration. Slower, due to due diligence and investment processes.

Focus Operational value and innovation adoption. Strategic influence and ecosystem building.

Impact on Startups Revenue generation and market validation. Funding, strategic guidance, and scalability.

Complementary Models for Corporate Innovation

Despite their differences, the Venture Client Model and CVCaaS can work complementarily to create a holistic innovation strategy. Here’s how:

1. From Transactional to Strategic Relationships:

Corporations can use the Venture Client Model to identify and test startups with potential. Once proven, the most promising startups can be brought into a CVC portfolio for equity investment and long-term collaboration.

2. De-risking Innovation:

The Venture Client Model serves as a low-risk testing ground for corporate-startup partnerships. Startups that deliver operational value can transition to the CVC model, where corporations take on a higher commitment through equity.

3. Diverse Objectives, Unified Outcomes:

• Venture Client Model addresses immediate business needs with quick wins.

• CVCaaS builds strategic capabilities and positions the corporation as an industry leader over time.

4. Efficient Resource Allocation:

By leveraging the Venture Client Model, corporations avoid investing equity in untested startups. Only startups with proven results are funneled into the more resource-intensive CVC model.

Mandalore’s Approach: Leveraging Both Models

Mandalore’s Corporate Venture Capital as a Service is designed to align with the strategic goals of its corporate clients, focusing on industry leadership, ecosystem development, and long-term growth. By integrating principles of the Venture Client Model into its strategy, Mandalore offers a dual-track approach:

• Innovation Adoption: Using Venture Client practices to rapidly test startup solutions.

• Strategic Investments: Transitioning successful startups into its CVC portfolio for scaling and deeper collaboration.

This hybrid strategy ensures that corporations benefit from immediate operational improvements while positioning themselves for future industry leadership.

Conclusion: The Gartner Hype and the Future of Innovation

The Venture Client Model’s inclusion in the Gartner Hype Cycle signifies its growing prominence as a practical, low-risk innovation tool. However, as with any innovation approach, its long-term value depends on successful implementation and integration into broader corporate strategies.

By combining the strengths of the Venture Client Model with the strategic depth of CVCaaS, corporations can unlock a two-pronged approach to innovation—immediate results today, strategic advantages tomorrow. Mandalore’s ability to leverage both models offers a blueprint for companies looking to stay competitive in an era of rapid technological change.

The question for corporations is no longer whether to engage with startups but how to engage effectively—and the answer often lies in using the right combination of these complementary models.