Corporate innovation can be defined as the process of enterprises implementing new innovation opportunities into existing business models. Established companies who engage in corporate innovation typically have a dedicated team towards innovation efforts.
In a study of 26 corporate partners conducted by Plug and Play Tech Center, a majority have an innovation team of over 20 people. Their main objective is to implement proof of concepts (POCs) and pilots across the company. This can be done in multiple ways, primarily through R&D within the company and by working with corporate accelerators to leverage their startup network.
Considering one of the main intents of corporate innovation is to strategically implement a new technology, one clear process is sourcing for startups. Common ways to source for startups include external accelerators, internal corporate innovation programs, and corporate venture arms (CVCs).
At this event, we, together with Thea will talk about her story and how she managed to change her career path from being a designer to becoming a corporate innovator. And we will also cover the following questions:
What it takes to be a senior manager at WeWork?
What do people imply by saying cross-industrial and cross-functional collaborations?
WeWork Labs
Senior Manager
Senior Manager at WeWork Labs aiming to help startups and corporate innovators to grow globally.
Prior to WeWork, Thea Li was engaged in business model innovation and project management in different industries. After realizing the evolution of career from designer to business innovator, she believes that personal initiative and diversity can make the impossible possible. With this belief, she dedicates to enhancing cross-industrial and cross-functional understandings and aspires to support more people
Startup Grind Nanjing
Chapter Director
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Startup Grind Nanjing
Co-Director
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University Nanjing, University Goettingen
Co-Director
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Director
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