New Business Venture Groups

An alternative to carrying out the more speculative business orientated research within the Corporate R D is to set up new business venture groups. 

A survey in 2005 on how major chemical companies were handling new business opportunities came up with the following examples [A-52]. 

BASF Future Businesses has 12 people who place research contracts with one or more of the existing R D units. This group of people are responsible for cooperating with start-up businesses, working with industry partners, potential customers and building relationships with relevant universities. A subsidiary BASF Venture Capital can invest capital in start-ups to pump prime new developments. 

DSM Venturing Business Development was set up to enable the company to focus on future high growth markets. Whilst it is business oriented it is also concerned with two-way licensing technology both within the company and also venturing activities across the company (See also Section C, 3.2 - 3.4). 

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