As technology evolves at an unprecedented pace, traditional Research & Development (R&D) struggles to keep up. Many corporates face challenges in developing breakthrough solutions internally, while also failing to capitalize on valuable intellectual property (IP) that no longer aligns with their core business.

To bridge this gap, Mind the Bridge is launching Open R&D, a new model designed to:

  • Accelerate deep tech innovation by engaging external talent in rapid prototyping and venture-building efforts.
  • Monetize underutilized corporate IP by connecting it with entrepreneurial teams ready to develop market-ready solutions.

Why Open R&D?

Existing open innovation strategies—such as startup collaborations, venture client programs, and CVC investments—often overlook early-stage technologies that aren’t yet mature enough to attract startups. Meanwhile, partnerships with universities can be slow and rigid, limiting commercialization potential.

The Open R&D Approach

Mind the Bridge facilitates innovation through:

  • Hackathons & Expert Challenges – Engaging top-tier researchers and entrepreneurs to develop early-stage solutions.
  • Rapid Prototyping & MVP Development – Accelerating time-to-market with agile, execution-focused processes.
  • Corporate Spin-Offs & Venture Building – Helping companies either internalize new solutions or launch them as independent ventures.

Why the U.S.?

While corporates maintain strong ties with European universities, the U.S. offers a unique mindset and infrastructure for high-tech commercialization, including:

  • A well-established spin-off ecosystem
  • Structured Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs)
  • Entrepreneurial researchers who see academia as a launchpad for startups

How Open R&D Complements Other Innovation Strategies

Rather than replacing traditional R&D, Open R&D integrates seamlessly with corporate venture capital, venture client programs, and intrapreneurship initiatives, offering:

  • More flexibility than university research collaborations
  • Faster execution than internal R&D
  • New opportunities for technology commercializationIn today’s fast-changing innovation landscape, companies must rethink how they develop and scale new technologies.

With Open R&D, Mind the Bridge provides a structured, results-driven approach to unlocking corporate innovation potential.

Meet the Leader Behind the Initiative

Spearheading Open R&D is Andrea Sguazzi, who recently joined Mind the Bridge as Head of Venture Builder and Startup Programs. With extensive experience in corporate innovation and technology scouting—including leading Enel’s Silicon Valley Innovation Hub—Andrea will drive collaborations with global enterprises to scale this initiative.