BMW Logo BMW Logo Startup Garage
Benefits & Program Fields of Interest Stories of Impact Team Celebrating 10 Years FAQ Are we a match?
BMW Logo BMW Logo Startup Garage
Benefits & Program Fields of Interest Stories of Impact Team Celebrating 10 Years FAQ Are we a match?
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Benefits & Program
Fields of Interest
Stories of Impact
Team
Celebrating 10 Years
FAQ
Are we a match?
Contact

BMW Group Startup Garage.

Your gateway to innovation
at the BMW Group.

The BMW Group Startup Garage is the venture client unit of the BMW Group and a is the global matchmaker, bringing cutting-edge startup solutions directly into our business units. For over a decade, we have empowered entrepreneurs to validate their technologies in real BMW applications – transforming pilot projects into long-term partnerships. Our proven venture client model means we can address critical challenges across the BMW Group – with innovations that deliver a real impact.

Our mission is to strengthen the BMW Group’s innovation leadership by connecting pioneering startups with our business units – and turning challenges into solutions.

Facts & Figures

Driving Startup Innovation
at the BMW Group.

2015
2015
Founded in 2015, we are the world's first and leading venture client unit.
>1000
>1000
We assess 1000+ Startups every year.
>50
>50
We collaborate with Startups from 50+ countries.
>35
>35
35+ Startups complete our program each year, on average.
>50
>50
Over 50% of our Alumni have secured Paid follow-up Projects.
< 8
< 8
From first touchpoint to final evaluation takes 4 to 8 weeks.
Collaborate with us

Want to know more
about the collaboration journey?

A person interacts with a digital screen displaying glowing data patterns.

We scout cutting-edge startup solutions worldwide to advance innovation at the BMW Group. Start your journey with us today.

Three people collaborate in front of computer screens in a dark, neon-lit room.

Your innovation will be assessed against key criteria – its relevance to our use cases, the maturity of your prototype, the strength and commitment of your team, investor backing, and your legal setup. Product demos with BMW units help us pinpoint the most promising solutions.

A 3D rendering shows a futuristic smart building made of glowing lines.

If a BMW business unit decides to test your solution, we'll take you through the purchase process from start to finish. You'll receive an official BMW supplier number and a purchase order. 

Congratulations! You've just wonthe BMW Group as your Venture Client!

Two engineers inspect an electronic circuit board on a workbench.

Our team guides you and the BMW business unit through your proof-of-concept project. During this pilot, we equip you to transition into a long-term supplier. We provide education on BMW processes, assist in navigating the organization, and connect you with the right stakeholders.

A person wears a virtual reality headset in a dimly lit environment.

If your solution proves successful, we will continue to support your transfer from the pilot to a long-term supplier contract. This marks the beginning of your journey as a valued long-term partner with the BMW Group!

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Stories of Impact.

The BMW Group Startup Garage has a track record of numerous stories that highlight our ability to turn bold ideas into real-world impact. From transformative mobility concepts to groundbreaking digital solutions, our collaborations have accelerated innovation across the BMW Group and beyond.

Two paths.
One mindset.

BMW i Ventures and the BMW Group Startup Garage follow two complementary venture models - one focused on strategic investment, the other on real application. Together, they turn promising startup innovation into measurable impact for the BMW Group.

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Venture Capital.

BMW i Ventures
Investing in early-stage startups with strong strategic relevance.

BMW i Ventures provides capital, long-term perspective and access to the BMW ecosystem. Beyond funding, i Ventures supports founders with industry expertise, market insights and a global network to help scale solutions and build lasting partnerships.

Focus of BMW i Ventures: funding and mentoring startups.

Venture Client.

BMW Group Startup Garage
Where startups become partners.

The BMW Group Startup Garage enables startups to work directly with BMW business units as venture clients - piloting innovations, validating use cases and creating real impact within the BMW Group.

Startups remain independent and retain full control over their intellectual property, while gaining hands-on experience as a BMW supplier.

Focus of the BMW Group Startup Garage: client-supplier long-term partnerships.

A group of four young BMW employees are all laughing as they look at the tablet belonging to one of the two women in the group.