Siemens Technology Accelerator

Siemens Technology Accelerator (STA), based in Munich, Germany, operates as a unique corporate venturing arm focused on commercializing non-strategic intellectual property developed within Siemens. Unlike traditional venture capital firms that primarily invest in external startups, STA's core mandate is to identify promising technologies from Siemens' vast R&D pipeline that do not align with the company's core business but possess significant market potential. It acts as a "company builder," transforming these internal innovations into independent, viable businesses through spin-offs or by licensing the technology to third parties. This approach allows Siemens to unlock value from its extensive patent portfolio and research efforts beyond its primary strategic objectives.

STA's process involves a rigorous evaluation of technologies, followed by the development of robust business plans and the assembly of dedicated management teams for the new ventures. They provide comprehensive support, including initial funding, access to Siemens' network, infrastructure, and expertise, helping these nascent companies navigate the complex journey from concept to market. The goal is to create self-sustaining entities that can attract further external investment and scale independently. Since its inception, STA has successfully launched over 20 spin-off companies, demonstrating its effectiveness in translating internal innovation into market-ready solutions.

While not a traditional external investor, STA's "first cheque" is the initial capital provided to the spin-off companies it creates. These initial investments typically range from approximately $500,000 to $5 million, depending on the specific technology, its development stage, and the capital intensity required for market entry and initial growth. The focus areas naturally align with Siemens' broad technological expertise, encompassing deep tech, industrial software, advanced materials, automation, and energy solutions. STA's model represents a sophisticated approach to corporate innovation, enabling Siemens to capitalize on its intellectual assets while fostering a vibrant ecosystem of new technology companies.