In the exclusive video interview featured below, we dive deep into the groundbreaking Orange x Manual.to collaboration, exploring how corporate-startup partnerships can accelerate innovation through strategic venture client scouting. This compelling discussion, hosted by Novable, reveals the key strategies, challenges, and wins that have defined this transformative partnership.
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Seems simple when put this way. Likewise, on the surface, VERBUND X’s approach looks straightforward, they continually source and validate new solutions for the energy transition. In reality, their true strength lies in a relentless focus on expanding and refining their innovation pipeline, which shapes how they discover startups, evaluate technologies, and scale the ideas that matter most. We are elated to share their story with you!
VERBUND X is the innovation arm of VERBUND AG, Austria’s leading energy company and a major player in the energy and infrastructure sector. As a forward-thinking organization, VERBUND X operates with the philosophy that “if we expect others to innovate, we have to do it ourselves.” They regularly challenge their business units to think differently, explore new technologies, and collaborate with startups to drive transformation in the rapidly evolving energy landscape.
VERBUND X focuses on breakthrough solutions across multiple domains including renewable energy, grid infrastructure, energy storage, and smart grid technologies. Their role extends beyond traditional energy operations to actively fostering innovation partnerships and identifying emerging technologies that can transform both their business and the broader energy sector.
VERBUND X faced significant limitations with their traditional startup scouting approach that was becoming increasingly inefficient in the fast-paced energy innovation landscape. The key challenges included:
These challenges meant VERBUND X was potentially missing breakthrough innovations that could transform their business and the broader energy landscape. Traditional methods simply weren’t keeping pace with the speed of innovation in the sector.
VERBUND X partnered with us, where they can uniquely “blend artificial with human intelligence” to transform startup discovery and evaluation. This wasn’t about replacing human expertise but amplifying it through AI-powered capabilities.
Key Solution Components:
The implementation was supported by our engaged team, who provided hands-on support throughout the onboarding process, ensuring the platform was tailored to VERBUND X’s specific needs in the energy sector.
Partnering with us substantially reduced VERBUND’s innovation sourcing costs by approximately €10,000 per scouting Campaign through optimized scouting and process automation. This internally validated calculation demonstrates a conservative yet consistent ROI, ensuring repeatable cost savings company-wide. Improved innovation outcomes are achieved through the active involvement of VERBUND’s internal team in defining scouting topics and pre-assessment, which enhanced solution relevance and long-term value creation. Furthermore, increased company engagement in scouting and selection not only delivers direct savings but also positions VERBUND for better results and accelerated innovation success in future initiatives. This is a beautiful example of a smart way of forming a strong foundation for future benefits in the innovation sector.
Note: These values are based on approximations and may vary depending on project complexity, team allocation, and ongoing process improvements. The calculation does not account for further strategic benefits or intangible gains from deeper team engagement in the innovation process.
VERBUND X’s partnership with us demonstrates how established energy companies can successfully enhance their innovation capabilities while maintaining strategic focus. By embracing AI-powered tools in their own processes, VERBUND X exemplifies the innovative thinking they encourage in their portfolio companies and partners.
Something we love to see, is this statement from Michael Strugl, CEO of VERBUND AG:
“We solve the urgent challenges of today and tomorrow. Without innovation, the green energy transformation will not be possible. To tackle some of the most critical challenges of our time and build solutions for a better future we collaborate closely with innovative startups.”
Key Success Factors:
This transformation represents more than operational efficiency, it embodies VERBUND X’s commitment to innovation leadership and sets a powerful example for the broader energy industry. The success paves the way for additional innovations in corporate partnership strategies and cross-company collaboration models, positioning VERBUND X at the forefront of energy sector innovation.
Beyond filling the accelerator, the collaboration led to a strategic investment, proving the transition from scouting to tangible deal-making.
For energy and infrastructure leaders, VERBUND X’s journey offers a proven roadmap for leveraging AI to amplify human expertise, expand innovation pipelines, and maintain competitive advantage in an increasingly complex and fast-moving industry landscape.
If your organization is looking to accelerate innovation, identify high-potential startups, and drive real business impact, Novable is here to help.
Book a Discovery Call today to explore how Novable can support your corporate innovation journey.
