Recognizing the value of collaboration, Datum has joined a startup ecosystem through the WOW Accelerator. To clarify some points about this dynamic, we had a conversation with our executive vice-president, Carine Bruxel. Check out the interview!
The maxim that problems are solved internally no longer applies in the networked world, and it is increasingly clear that innovation is the result of collaboration. That is, established companies and startups, along with other players such as academic and governmental institutions, work together, forming a large ecosystem. Each member of this ecosystem contributes in their own way. Established organizations, for example, bring expertise, reach, and capital, while startups contribute with innovation, speed, and creativity. Together, they drive the development of the group as a whole.
The Startup Ecosystem
Realizing the importance of being part of such an environment, we recently embarked on a journey that will allow us to create even more innovative solutions for our clients. Datum is now part of the startup ecosystem at WOW Accelerator. Based in Porto Alegre, WOW has already invested in and accelerated over 100 startups from different sectors. Beyond financial investment, the company believes in the power of connections, networking, and intellectual capital, just like us.
To find out what motivated this decision and understand the role Datum will play in this innovation environment, we had a conversation with our executive vice president, Carine Bruxel, about this news. Let’s see what she has to say?
Interview with the VP
Carine Bruxel, executive VP and partner at Datum. Image: Lisa Roos
Carine, you mentioned that companies not seeking innovations with startups are falling behind. Was this one of the motivations behind the decision to invest in startups?
That’s the idea! Companies immersed in themselves lose sight of what’s happening outside. In an interconnected society, solutions to problems lie in universities, innovation hubs, and, especially, startup ecosystems. We are living in a new era of collaboration and connection with these ecosystems.
In what ways can Datum contribute, apart from investments, to the development of this ecosystem?
We will also contribute with connections within our community, market access, mentorship, and development paths.
In terms of investment, is there a key segment you’re focusing on?
Yes! We are focusing on fintechs, retailtechs, and martechs.
How does this movement benefit the members of Datum’s innovation ecosystem?
The advantages of being part of an ecosystem are numerous, but primarily it’s about access to the main market trends, technologies, and new business models.
How does Datum plan to measure the success of participation in this ecosystem?
When we talk about startups, we are inevitably talking about bets and high risk. Among the countless benefits of being in a startup ecosystem, we believe that our greatest measure of success will be the quality of relationships with the people and startups in the ecosystem, as these relationships generate various often intangible benefits, such as inspiration, knowledge, and creativity. We want to experience the process and discover the joys and challenges of this journey.
