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Is this startup the key to unlocking better battery performance?

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StartupValley
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breathe

Breathe Battery Technologies develops advanced battery management software that enhances performance and sustainability for electric vehicles and consumer electronics.

Why did you decide to start Breathe?

Breathe (also known as Breathe Battery Technologies) was spun out of Imperial College London in 2019 by myself, Dr Yan Zhao and Professor Greg Offer. Born on the back of a frustration around the lack of energy being put into battery system performance, we co-founded a limited entity through which we could bring together capital investment from around the world across different functions from computer engineering to modelling. 

Our focus is on building battery technology to contribute to a faster, better and more sustainable electrification of the world. We do that by providing physics-based battery management software that helps the world’s most iconic electric vehicle and consumer electronics brands do more with the power they have. 

Our embedded software products, Breathe Charge and Breathe Life, use adaptive charging to dynamically adjust the charging current across both the state of charge and state health windows, indicating the ideal current at every moment. Our products extract more performance from existing batteries to deliver faster charging, greater cycle life and zero compromise on safety.

What is the vision behind Breathe?

Our name is a wordplay on the fact that we basically breathe technology every day. With so many people now living in megacities, we see the false economy of fast tech as a major issue from both a climate perspective and an environmental perspective. 

We dream that one day everyone will breathe clean air, so we are moving fast to make batteries better so we can solve the big issues of air pollution, electronic waste, and the consumable nature of batteries.

From the idea to the start what have been the biggest challenges so far and how did you finance yourself?

As CEO, I wear many hats related to managing our growth, which brings its own rewards and challenges. Ultimately, my role is to ensure that whatever issues arise get solved efficiently while mitigating risks as we scale. 

Making the transition from the lab environment to real-world applications and driving revenue through customer deals, has been one of the most important things we’ve done. This comes with many challenges. One of which is scaling the team to allow this to happen. 

Scaling the team and ensuring adequate financing are always obstacles. Recruiting the right people is challenging. In the UK we simply aren’t producing battery engineers at the pace required to meet the regulatory drivers for electrification, so it’s an intensely competitive market for hiring. 

In 2021, we secured a £1.5 Million seed round led by Speedinvest, Europe’s largest seed stage investor by dollars of assets under management. We subsequently raised a $10 million series A with Lowercarbon Capital, one of the world’s largest climate tech investors by assets under management. In March 2024, we received additional investment from Volvo Cars Tech Fund.

How does Breathe’s solution work?

Our solutions work on two levels – the company level and the product level. 

At the company level, we’re addressing a significant gap in battery technology. When batteries leave the production line, they often underperform due to outdated control systems. If these devices were more durable, consumers would pay less for the same end-user experience that they have today.

A battery is a complicated piece of electric chemistry, but the way it’s looked after in the software application is archaic, outdated, overly simplistic, and it means there’s a lot of performance and capability locked up in that battery that consumers never get to access.

At the product level, Breathe Charge and Breathe Life replace these outdated charging strategies with adaptive solutions. Unlike traditional methods, our approach dynamically adjusts to the battery’s needs, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. 

We achieve this through a piece of maths that describes what’s happening electrochemically inside the battery then we wrap that up as software. Every battery is unique, so our sophisticated software analyses various factors, including battery age and temperature. We have a software engineering team in house that develops tailored solutions for each battery system, maximising its potential.

Who is the target customer for Breathe?

We work with organisations that are driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in battery performance, charging, and longevity.

In March 2024, we partnered with Volvo Cars, making them the first automotive company to gain access to our latest patented, algorithm-enabled charging software for their new generation of fully electric vehicles. This partnership will provide Volvo customers with up to 30% faster charging and an enhanced overall driving and charging experience.

We have also collaborated with Rimac to improve charging speeds, enabling 50% state of charge to be achieved 43% faster. We also work with Delta Cosworth and Varta to enhance battery performance and reduce charging times.

On the consumer electronics side we work with OPPO, a leading smartphone manufacturer. Our software is currently integrated into 27 OPPO smartphone models, doubling the cycle life of their devices.

Essentially, we love working with forward-thinking companies that strive to be at the forefront of innovation and recognise the potential of our technology to revolutionise battery performance, charging capabilities, and longevity across various industries.

How can your customers benefit from Breathe’s products?

We help our electric vehicle brand customers by providing their vehicles with faster charging speeds, extended range, and prolonged battery life through our patented, algorithm-enabled software. By collaborating with us, EV manufacturers differentiate themselves by delivering superior mobility solutions that address consumer concerns like range anxiety and charging times.

Similarly, consumer electronics companies leverage our technology to double the cycle life of their devices, such as smartphones and laptops. This aligns with consumer demands for longer-lasting battery performance, compact form factors, and environmentally friendly products.

Our software-based approach allows customers to optimise their existing battery technology cost-effectively, resulting in improved product performance, boosted revenue, and a competitive edge as sustainable and innovative organisations.

Crucially, our solution offers a relatively fast implementation compared to developing new battery chemistries or materials, making it an attractive choice for companies seeking to stay ahead of rapidly evolving battery technology while meeting customer expectations.

Where do you see yourself and the business in five years?

I’m highly optimistic about our future growth and impact in the next five years. We have a deep understanding of the industry’s needs and the evolving trends, which gives us confidence in our strategic direction.

We are well-positioned to capitalise on several regulatory tailwinds that align with our mission. For instance, the European Union’s right to repair regulations mandate minimum durability requirements for batteries. Our consumer electronics customers recognise that batteries can no longer be treated as disposable components, and the current regulatory environment supports this shift towards sustainability.

Our successful partnerships with industry leaders like Volvo Cars, OPPO, Rimac, and Cosworth further reinforce our optimism. These collaborations demonstrate our ability to enhance battery performance, charging capabilities, and longevity across various sectors, from automotive to consumer electronics. We are excited to build upon these achievements and expand our reach within these industries.

While I cannot disclose specific details, we are actively pursuing new opportunities and partnerships that will amplify our impact and solidify our position as a leading provider of innovative battery management solutions. With our cutting-edge technology and deep industry expertise, we are well-equipped to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of battery technology and meet the growing demand for sustainable and high-performing battery solutions.

At the end: Which 3 tips would you give to future founders or business leaders?

Tip 1: Focus on developing an insanely attractive product & delighting customers above all else. These are the pre-requisites, and everything else (hiring brilliant talent, financing the business, marketing & more) follows from that.

Tip 2: Instil a company culture of celebrating revenue & align incentive structures around it. All other forms of financing are temporary and are a means to revenue.

Tip 3: Ruthlessly assess and clearly communicate what aspects of the business need to be world-class vs. what aspects need to be unique. The world-class aspects prevent customers saying “no”, while the unique aspects are the reasons they will say “yes”.

More information you will find here

Thank you Dr. Ian Campbell for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

Is This the Game-Changing Solution Every Tech Company Needs?

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StartupValley
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clevenue

Clevenue transforms revenue planning for B2B tech companies by making it more accurate, effective, and equitable

Can you introduce your company and share a bit about the founders’ backgrounds and what inspired you to start this venture?

Clevenue was built by me (Alex Handsaker), who has spent years in tech growing businesses in revenue teams, and Ste Errington, who has spent years building software and tech solutions.

Clevenue was created after we personally experienced tech layoffs, along with almost 500,000 other people since 2022 (layoffs.fyi). We discovered that many businesses designed their growth plans using simplistic spreadsheets, often found online as free templates. These spreadsheets were overly simplistic, filled with flawed assumptions and bad data. They often assumed that adding more salespeople would automatically generate more sales, despite decreasing marketing efficacy and dwindling market demand.

We recognized that as businesses committed to larger sales and revenue targets, excessive hiring wasn’t limited to purely sales teams. This growth would then branch out across the business to account for the extra customers the business was planning on bringing in through the elevated targets. Customer success, operations, development, engineering— the entirety of the business is designed around the commercial ambitions of the company. When these businesses finally realized that the targets were unattainable, it wasn’t just sales teams that lost their jobs; everyone else hired in became collateral damage to the mistakes that stemmed from the spreadsheets.

We set out to not only make sales capacity planning easier but to change the way that people modeled it, with people no longer being simply a 1 or a 0 in a spreadsheet.

What is the core vision of your company, and what steps are you taking to achieve it?

We want to change the way that people approach revenue planning, making it more accurate, effective, and equitable for everyone involved. By helping people simulate the real-world effects of the decisions that they make, they are less likely to overhire, overspend, and ultimately repeat the layoff cycle that we have seen happen before.

You wouldn’t attempt to manage your customers in a spreadsheet; instead, you’d use a CRM like Hubspot or Salesforce. We want people to feel exactly the same way about planning and Clevenue.

Who is your target audience, and how do you identify and meet their needs effectively?

We’re aimed at revenue and leadership teams in B2B tech companies, where profitable, efficient growth is a key goal. We help to streamline the process, removing the need for technical knowledge or spreadsheet skills. Instead, just bring your data and strategy, and we can do the rest.

What major challenges has your company faced so far, and how have you managed to overcome them?

We’re trying to create a brand-new category of software within a densely populated market, all while solving a difficult technical challenge. We can’t yet say that we’ve fully overcome the challenge as we’re miles from product-market fit. However, we’re in the process of educating and showing people the future of revenue planning, and we’re confident that it’s only a matter of time and effort.

What sets your company apart from others in the industry? What is your unique selling point?

Existing revenue platforms focus on forecasting revenue based on the opportunities that they have, which ignores the effects of hiring, marketing plans, and economic changes that can all impact the effectiveness of the plan. These platforms are totally divorced from planning, which is done in spreadsheets in 95% of businesses, which take a simplistic view of revenue, relegating people to being a simple 1 or a 0 in a spreadsheet.

Clevenue works differently and starts with the people, modeling the contribution that every single person has in the business and how that all rolls upwards to the company target. Leadership can then simulate strategies and decisions which are then simulated to show the impact across generated revenue, cost, and efficiency.

Can you share your plans for the future direction of the company? Are there any upcoming developments or projects you’re excited about?

While we’re focused on helping to intelligently plan around the revenue team currently, we know that revenue is the engine behind the rest of growth, an area that the rest of the business depends on. We want to help businesses intelligently capacity plan across far more of their organization, using AI-driven suggestions based on their own data and plans.

What are some of the key milestones your company has achieved since its inception?

We worked our way through many different prototypes and stages of prototypes. The biggest key milestone for us was when we got our MVP out to our pilots and saw their reaction to it. We realized at that point that what we’re building brings huge value to businesses, and that it’s now just a case of getting it in front of people.

How do you approach innovation within your company to stay ahead in a competitive market?

As we’re bootstrapped, we know that our approach to growth is going to have to look different from the competition, and that we’re not necessarily going to have the resources to “beat them” at each turn. This means we’re focused on building to the vision, not what the competition is creating, and working to define how planning should really look.

Can you discuss a time when your company had to pivot or adapt its strategy? What did you learn from that experience?

Our strategy is a pretty agile one; however, planning isn’t yet an evergreen topic. Many businesses are still in an annual or biannual cadence, and we know that a huge part of success will be in making planning so easy that it becomes a continuous process. That involves stepping back from how people currently plan and building around what people want out of planning, and not just a more intricate plan.

How do you ensure your company culture aligns with your business goals and vision?

We’re bootstrapped, which means that we have to grow efficiently and effectively. This is where using Clevenue ourselves comes in. It helps us to not only understand what growth is possible for ourselves but closely control our appetite for growth and risk.

What role do your customers play in shaping your products and services?

Our customers acutely drive the product vision and roadmap. However, in building something that doesn’t yet exist elsewhere, we also have to be mindful of building what is possible, not just what is easiest. We’re aware of how many other tools filling different tasks exist within revenue, and so we’re mindful not to overlap without good reason.

Could you offer three pieces of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs based on your experiences?

Make sure you have a complementary founder – If you’re a techy, find someone that knows sales, marketing, and finance. If you’re someone that is that, then make sure you find a techy, and most importantly, make sure you can speak a common language when unpacking the problem.

Find a problem you care about and can understand – If it’s not a problem you care about, will you really have the perseverance, and will you really care about your customers? If you simply want to make money fast, go get a job and you’ll have a paycheck at the end of the month.

You’ve got to put in the work – The idea of a working day should go completely out the window, but it shouldn’t be a struggle. Because you’re on a problem you want to solve, work is no longer work: it’s progress. Not working then becomes not making progress.

More information you will find here

Thank you Alex Handsaker for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

STARTUP AUTOBAHN EXPO2024

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StartupValley
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STARTUP AUTOBAHN EXPO2024

STARTUP AUTOBAHN EXPO2024 showcases over 30 pilot collaborations between startups and mobility leaders

STARTUP AUTOBAHN’s flagship EXPO event returns on June 6, 2024, for its 13th edition, to showcase over 30 pilot projects jointly developed by startups and industry giants in mobility, production, enterprise, and sustainability. This one-day event in Stuttgart will unite over 1,200 in-person attendees, including board members and C-Level executives from leading automotive companies, entrepreneurs, public officials, investors, and tech experts. 

STARTUP AUTOBAHN powered by Plug and Play is an innovation platform that unites the unrivaled tech expertise of Silicon Valley and the best of German engineering. Just like the German highway — the “Autobahn” — the only one in the world without a speed limit, STARTUP AUTOBAHN accelerates connections between industry corporations and innovative startups. The results of these collaborations are showcased at the annual EXPO, an invite-only conference showcasing technologies of the future and exposing the power of corporate-startup innovation.

This year’s EXPO2024 will gather over 1,200 guests at Im Wizemann in Stuttgart. Inspired by the motto “Innovate. Inspire. Change”, the event’s agenda has been carefully curated to address the most pressing challenges of the mobility industry: Generative AI, Transition to E-Mobility, Sustainability in Heavy Duty, the Role of Data in Circular Economy, Collaborative Innovation, the Role of AI in Sustainability, and more. 

The agenda includes inspiring keynote speeches by board members and industry leaders, panel discussions, expert roundtables, innovation walks, startup pitches, an exclusive demo of selected pilot projects, and several side events. 

The speaker lineup features the most influential voices of innovation in mobility and those at the forefront of the automotive industry:

Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement; Howard Boville, Executive Vice President, General Manager of Global Applications and Artificial Intelligence at DXC Technology; Andreas Schick, Chief Operating Officer at Schaeffler; Saeed Amidi, Founder and CEO at Plug and Play Tech Center; Dirk Walliser, Senior Vice President Corporate Research & Development at ZF Group; Alessandro Cremonesi, Chief Innovation Officer at STMicroelectronics; Jan-Maarten de Vries, President Fleet Management Solutions at Bridgestone Mobility Solutions; Hongquan Jiang, Partner at Robert Bosch Venture Capital; Jan Hiesserich, VP Strategy & Communications at Aleph Alpha; Lu Han, Open Innovation Program Director at Robert Bosch Venture Capital.  

At EXPO2024, STARTUP AUTOBAHN will present the Plug and Play Global Innovation Award and the STARTUP AUTOBAHN Sustainability Award. 

More about the EXPO2024 agenda, speakers, and the project showcase: expo2024.pnptc.events

Pilot Projects and Implementations 

The showcased pilot projects focus on the topics of EV Experience, AI Detection, Autonomous Driving, In-Car Experience, New Materials, Road and Traffic Data, Sustainable Materials, Data Analytics, Robotic Applications, Seamless Inspections, and many more.

Wanda Fish Unveils Cell-Cultivated Bluefin Tuna Toro Sashimi

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StartupValley
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wanda fish

Wanda Fish Unveils Its First Cell-Cultivated Bluefin Tuna Toro Sashimi

It’s out of the ocean: Proprietary fat formation and downstream tech are start-up’s key to replicating the buttery sensation of true Bluefin Toro

Ness-Ziona, Israel- Cell-based seafood maker Wanda Fish, Ltd. unveils its first cultivated bluefin tuna toro sashimi. The creation of this prototype addresses the burgeoning demand for bluefin tuna via a pollution-free, quality-consistent, and sustainable supply of the highly sought fish.

The raw toro specialty is composed of the underbelly of the fish. It has the highest fat content, with especially high omega-3 levels. This awards it a unique buttery sensation, making it the most tender and desired meat of the fish. Wanda Fish’s cell-cultivated sashimi possesses the same sensory features of wild-sourced toro sashimi and is imbued with comparable nutritional richness, especially protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Secret is in the tech’s fat formation

Wanda Fish’s cell-cultivated adaptation of the 3D filet combines the cellular mass of muscle and fat created from the Bluefin tuna’s own cells, developed together with a plant-based matrix. The company enlisted skilled chefs to bring its sashimi to culinary perfection.

Wanda Fish’s patent-pending technology to induce native fat formation in bluefin tuna cells and a whole-cut downstream manufacturing process employs a rapid, low-cost, and readily scalable production method. The fat endows the cultivated fish whole cut with not only its velvety texture but also its unique, rich flavor and essential nutrients, including omega-3s.

“A key focus in the creation of our product was achieving the same level of fat marbling as real Bluefin toro sashimi to create the same look and mouthfeel,” reveals Daphna Heffetz PhD, co-founder and CEO of Wanda Fish. “Reaching this milestone demonstrates Wanda Fish’s ability to bring to market a whole-cut bluefin tuna toro filet without harming the ocean or diminishing the population of wild fish. The product is sustainable, and of course free of microplastics, mercury, and other chemical toxins all-too-commonly found in wild catch.”

“Our prototype is unique in the cultivated food industry, as there is no cooking or panning of the product”, explains Malkiel Cohen, VP of R&D for Wanda Fish. “Using multiple bluefin tuna cells to create both muscle and fat and our plant-based 3D design, we capture the essence of a raw fish fillet without preservatives, artificial additives, or GMOs.”

Good for the fish, good for business

Bluefin tuna is considered the pinnacle of tuna species. They are no easy catch, not only because they are one of the ocean’s fastest and long-distance swimmers, making them difficult to raise in captivity, but also because they are a prized marine delicacy. Overfishing and illegal fishing have prompted governments to place caps on fishing activity by implementing strict fishing quotas, which has also contributed to its premium price.

Toro sashimi is a luxury dish served mostly in high-end restaurants across Japan but is also available in exclusive sushi outlets globally. A single 1 kilo serving can cost USD100 or more.

“Cultivated bluefin tuna is one of those rare food products that makes good business sense,” says Yaron Sfadyah, VP of Business Development & Marketing for Wanda Fish. “It is in high demand, with limited alternatives that match the taste and texture of the wild fish, and at an ideal price point and distribution model.” Alternative protein companies often contend with high manufacturing costs, coupled with the low price of animal-based products. It is a completely different story for cultivated bluefin tuna.”

“Our scalable platform for producing this premium product, raises its potential to reach price parity with traditionally raised bluefins, speed its journey to the marketplace and maximize profit margins,” adds Heffetz.

The start-up will first introduce its tuna in the high-end food service sector, with a focus on Japanese cuisine, where sushi and sashimi are traditional features. “Our focus on bluefin tuna as our first product was driven by market needs rather than technology driven,” adds Heffetz.

Picture Photographer Noam Preisman

Source NutriPR

Is This the Secret to Winning the Social Media Game?

By
Sabine Elsässer
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0
team5pm

team5pm is a data-driven content group that creates effective content for brands on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram

Could you please tell us about yourself and introduce your startup, team5pm, to our audience?

I’m Jelmer Wind, and I’m the CEO and co-founder of team5pm. We are a data-driven content group that brings together the worlds of data and creativity to create effective content for brands on various platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. By analyzing real human view and search behavior data with our in-house developed video SEO technology, topictree, we find the sweet spot for brands — where their target audience is and their competition isn’t.

team5pm was founded in 2018. Since then, we have grown from a local YouTube agency to an international company with 135 people and offices in Amsterdam, Stockholm, Cape Town, and Warsaw. We have a global network of clients, including Prime Video, GAMMA, bol., and KPN, and our work has received international recognition at awards like The YouTube Works, The Webbys, Global Search Awards, and The European Video Awards, among others.

Prior to founding team5pm, I worked at the Dutch media network RTL as Senior Development Manager of Digital Media and Head of Content and Channels at RTL MCN. The interest in video has always been there, as well as the entrepreneurial mindset.

What inspired the concept of team5pm?

We noticed that brands were finding it increasingly difficult to reach their audience in the new media landscape. With my and the other co-founders’ years of media experience and backgrounds at RTL, we recognized the potential to help brands succeed on YouTube. We started off with strategy and channel management, and eventually became a full-service YouTube agency, doing our own in-house video production. Today, we do everything within the social domain, assisting brands not only in the Netherlands but around the globe.

What motivated you to launch team5pm?

We were always wondering why the business market on YouTube revolved only around creators and advertising, while the organic possibilities of the platform are endless. YouTube is not only the second most visited website in the world; it is also the second-largest search engine. In our opinion, brands were all competing on the same platforms while neglecting the second most important one to be present on. Being the first to claim this domain gave us the opportunity to grow much faster than the average agency start-up.

Along the way, we discovered that our way of work and data-driven approach could be easily adopted for other social platforms. This allows us to produce video content more efficiently and achieve different, better, and more strategic goals for our clients.

Could you share the core vision and mission of team5pm?

If you want to stand out in the crowded content landscape, you need to be different. That’s where our data-driven approach comes in. While others focus on mass data and trends, we help brands find the sweet spot where they can be the most effective and impactful. We create content that drives results, using data to make it happen.

Can you talk about the initial challenges and difficulties you faced while starting up?

Probably the most difficult challenge we faced was the fact that there were no YouTube agencies at that moment. Although, it finally gave us the possibility to grow as fast as we did. Sales was hard work to educate the market on why they should make use of the platform.

Next to this, we faced the most obvious challenges and difficulties while starting up. Cash-flow management to keep up with the fast growth, from managing a team of 4 to 60 within a year, creating structures and workflows, and dealing with setbacks while not losing the energy to grow.

Key has been to stay agile; testing, adjusting, and optimizing what doesn’t work. Planning ahead is important, but being open to change is key. Never be afraid to kill your darlings.

Who do you consider the primary audience for your services?

We help the CMO of the future. This means that we serve as a partner for CMOs and marketing professionals who are dealing with an increasingly complex media landscape, the pressure of managing more channels, navigating more technology solutions, and managing more product and service partners.

And as if that weren’t enough, many also face the pressure of doing more with less due to budget cuts. At team5pm, we do more with less and eliminate costly guesswork. For example, by integrating all our specialties into one plan or campaign, we can produce content more efficiently; there’s no need for a separate plan for each platform. Our data-driven approach also allows us to know exactly which video we need to make; the most expensive mistake is to produce a video that doesn’t generate results.

What sets team5pm apart from other companies in the same field?

We take the guesswork out of marketing by creating content that people actually want to see. Data is part of our DNA, and by combining it with creativity, we can outsmart our clients’ competition. We are also international and 360 when it comes to content, making us the ultimate partner for the modern CMO, with expertise across both platforms and markets.

Could you describe a typical day at work for you?

As CEO of our company I can truly say that there is a lot of variety in my working days. My scope is divided around our running operations, growth of the company like international expansion, M&A and connecting with our MD’s in Cape Town, Warsaw, Amsterdam and Stockholm. But also more long-term topics like business models, innovation or impact of AI. 

The most typical workday for me is Monday, because it is the only one that is more or less the same every week. My day begins with a management team meeting where I discuss various aspects of our agency with the board members, focusing on operations, finance, commercial activities, business growth, and people & culture. The afternoon is dedicated to one-on-one discussions with the directors, where we delve into challenges and explore potential solutions.

Where do you envision team5pm and yourself in the next five years?

We are observing a shift towards social platforms. Brands and CMO’s are increasingly looking for an agency that can manage all types of marketing across various platforms, including influencer marketing, YouTube content, and online commercials. This demands expertise in content creation, algorithms, and platform-specific media buying, all crucial for engaging the broad audience that TV once reached. 

Essentially, the CMO of the future needs a partner who can take one overarching idea or concept and efficiently apply it across multiple platforms. This is the direction we are heading. We aim to be the go-to partner for marketing professionals as their needs continue to evolve, always employing a data-first approach and delivering measurable results.

What are three pieces of advice you would offer to aspiring entrepreneurs?

1. Don’t make long-term plans when starting up your own company. Keep a horizon, but plan and adapt with a 3-6 month strategy to stay agile. Release, test, adjust. Kill your darlings!

2. You run a business, not a family.

Focus on the core of your business and/or business model. Try to free yourself from tasks that seem like your responsibility as a founder, such as finance, HR, or operations, but ultimately consume too much energy or time and prevent you from doing what the company needs most. It may look expensive at the beginning, but it will bring more value in the long run.

Thank you Jelmer Wind for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

Enhance your business outcomes with MT2M Media web and software solutions

By
StartupValley
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0
MT2M Media

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, companies are increasingly seeking effective ways to enhance their online presence and operational efficiencies. A strategic approach to web and software development not only boosts online visibility but also streamlines business operations, leading to significant cost savings and improved results.

Digital Services Tailored to Your Needs

Understanding the spectrum of digital services essential for modern businesses is crucial. From web and software development to internet content provision and targeted marketing strategies, each element plays a pivotal role in crafting a successful online presence. Effective planning and execution in these areas can dramatically impact a company’s reach and profitability. 

For a deeper insight into how tailored digital services can benefit your business, consider exploring MT2M Media, which specializes in enhancing web performance while addressing comprehensive business needs.

Web and Software Development

The backbone of any digital strategy lies in robust web and software solutions. High-quality coding and bespoke software solutions ensure that businesses not only attract visitors but also provide outstanding user experiences and functionalities that meet specific business requirements. 

At MT2M Media, expert developers focus on creating customized software that aligns perfectly with client objectives, ensuring every project is meticulously crafted to support both immediate needs and long-term goals.

Content and Marketing Strategies

Developing compelling content and employing precise marketing techniques are imperative for amplifying online engagement and conversion rates. 

Whether it’s via search engine advertising, social media campaigns, or tailor-made content strategies, deploying focused and well-articulated messages attract the right audience. Moreover, combining creative writing with strategic distribution ensures that content not only resonates with its intended audience but also strengthens market presence.

Design and User Experience

Aesthetics play a critical role in web design, influencing how audiences perceive a brand. Working closely with clients, designers at MT2M Media craft visually appealing designs that reflect the brand’s ethos and meet user expectations. A well-designed website is more than just aesthetically pleasing—it’s about creating an intuitive user journey that enhances interaction and customer satisfaction.

Sector-Specific Expertise and Support

One size does not fit all when it comes to digital solutions. Different sectors have unique challenges and requirements. Hence, offering specialized services tailored to sector-specific demands helps in achieving superior outcomes. 
With expertise ranging from retail to technology and beyond, MT2M Media’s broad industry knowledge enables the delivery of services that are both relevant and effective, enhancing overall efficiency and competitiveness.

Take your business to the next level with MT2M Media

If you’re ready to take your business to the next level, contacting a professional web agency like MT2M Media is a great starting point. Specializing not only in improving web performances but also providing comprehensive digital solutions tailored to diverse business needs across Europe, the team is ready to help you achieve desired outcomes. Don’t let inefficiencies hinder your growth; instead, leverage digital expertise for enhanced success.

Invest in your company’s future by embracing advanced web solutions and skilled marketing tactics that guarantee results. Reach out today and start your journey towards enhanced digital proficiency and market leadership.

Bild: Freepik.com

Autor Dino Bozzi

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

Laurent Cordonnier is now CFO at Breathe Battery Technologies

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StartupValley
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0
Laurent Cordonnier

Laurent Cordonnier brings more than two decades of strategic financial leadership to Breathe Battery Technologies 

Leading supplier of physics-based adaptive charging software for batteries, Breathe Battery Technologies (“Breathe”) has strengthened its senior leadership team with the appointment of Laurent Cordonnier into the role of Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately. 

Reporting directly to CEO and co-founder Dr Ian Campbell, and working closely with fellow co-founders Dr Yan Zhao (CTO) and Professor Gregory Offer (Chief Scientist), Cordonnier’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Breathe as the company positions itself for further expansion and industry leadership. His extensive experience will contribute to the company’s growth trajectory, which can be seen through the announcement of recent partnerships with leading OEMs, including Volvo Cars.

In March, Breathe announced that Volvo Cars will implement the latest version of Breathe Charge adaptive charging software in its new generation fully electric cars. Breathe Charge will reduce the time it takes to charge an electric Volvo from 10 to 80% state of charge by as much as 30%*, while maintaining the same energy density and range. 

As Breathe further scales its customer base, Cordonnier will play a central role in enabling the organisation to continue making batteries better. Cordonnier has joined Breathe from private-equity backed technology companies Native Instruments and Deezer where he served as CFO to drive revenue growth, while also leading successful capital raises. His experience at Native Instruments, which blends software, hardware and creativity to create experiences, positions him perfectly to drive similar outcomes for Breathe. Prior to that, Cordonnier was an investor at Access Industries and an investment banking associate at Morgan Stanley. He has two decades of experience in financial leadership and as CFO of Breathe he is set to play a fundamental role as the company continues its expansion in response to intense demand. 

Laurent Cordonnier, Chief Financial Officer, Breathe said:

“I am excited and honored to join the team at Breathe. The company’s commitment to innovation and its potential to significantly impact the automotive and consumer electronics industries is truly extraordinary. I look forward to working closely with the founders Ian, Yan, Greg and the entire team as we embark on the next phase of growth and continue to deliver on our promise of creating remarkable end-user experiences through software-defined batteries.”

Dr Ian Campbell, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Breathe said:

“We are delighted that Laurent has chosen to join Breathe as our CFO. This new appointment reflects the growing capability of Breathe to proactively address existing gaps in battery technology. We set out to make batteries better and Laurent’s wealth of experience has found fertile ground here as we expand our production programmes and further invest in technologies.”

Since its inception, Breathe’s focus has been on building battery technology to contribute to a faster, better and more sustainable electrification of the world. It exists to enable world-class OEMs to do more with the power they have, unlocking performance from existing batteries to deliver superior end-user experiences. Unlike traditional methods, Breathe’s adaptive battery charging software dynamically controls the battery in real-time with demonstrated benefits in charging and user experiences. This includes delivering longevity and optimal performance gains, while simultaneously supporting battery health and sustainability efforts. 

Cordonnier’s appointment also comes off the back of recent investment from Volvo Cars Tech Fund in March and a $10 million series A led by Lowercarbon Capital, one of the world’s largest climate tech investors, with participation from Speedinvest, who led Breathe’s seed round in 2019.

Cordonnier began his career as an auditor with Arthur Andersen and PricewaterhouseCoopers. Laurent holds a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from San Jose State University and an MBA from MIT Sloan School of Management. 

* Different battery packs will result in varying charging times. Testing indicated charge time improvements ranging from 15-30%.

Source © 2024 Influence Emobility Limited

Changing the Game: A Bold Strategy Redefines Industry Standards

By
StartupValley
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0
PRLab

PRLab is redefining public relations for the tech industry by crafting dynamic, tailored strategies that elevate client visibility and establish thought leadership.

Could you please tell us about yourself and introduce your startup, PRLab, to our audience?

I’m Matías Rodesvich, CEO and founder of PRLab. I started PRLab back in 2018 because I believed the B2B PR world was outdated, especially when it came to tech companies. At PRLab, we don’t just follow the news; we make the news. We understand that in the tech industry, breakthroughs don’t happen every day. That’s why our approach doesn’t hinge solely on news that’s already out there – we create our own spotlight through relentless brand awareness, content creation, and leading the conversation through thought leadership tactics.

We’ve spent the last six years challenging traditional PR norms. We’ve proudly guided over 100 clients to make their mark globally. At PRLab, we believe that we’re not just a service provider; we consider ourselves a part of your team. We’re here to ensure that the impacts of our PR efforts are felt across all levels of your business, adjusting our strategies dynamically to meet our clients’ evolving needs. So, as we continue to reimagine the future of B2B PR, we’re here to build not just visibility but to also position our clients as experts in their field.

What inspired the concept of PRLab?

When I was working in PR for some big tech names, I noticed this gap between the fast-paced, dynamic nature of the tech industry and what traditional PR was offering. It felt like PR just couldn’t keep pace with the tech sector’s rapid evolution. That’s when I grew eager to start something that’s designed for this dynamic environment. PRLab was born from the idea to bridge that gap with a PR strategy that’s as agile and tailored as the tech industry demands. At PRLab, we’re all about flexibility, adapting on the go to meet our clients’ needs, and always aiming for clear, measurable goals. We don’t just want to keep up; we want to lead the way in tech PR.

What motivated you to launch PRLab?

The main reason I wanted to start PRLab was to disrupt an industry that I thought was outdated. We’re always on the pulse, scouting out the latest trends and turning them into compelling stories. Our proactive stance means we craft narratives enriched with real-time insights, setting our clients up as the go-to experts in their fields. To both capture the attention of the media and maintain it on our clients, it all comes down to thought leadership combined with strategic brand awareness. That’s the heart of what we do at PRLab—creating impact where it really counts.

Could you share the core vision and mission of PRLab?

Our mission is clear: we aim to redefine PR as a vital driver of sustainable business growth. This is why we work closely with our clients, integrating our efforts with their marketing and sales strategies to achieve set KPIs. We’re all about personalization here. Instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach, we tailor our PR efforts to fit each client’s specific needs. Our goal? It’s not just about getting coverage; it’s about making a real impact on growth. We dig deep to understand how our PR strategies drive results. By customizing our approach to hit measurable goals, we drive growth and reshape the role of PR in the modern tech landscape.

Who do you consider the primary audience for your services?

As a tech-focused PR agency, our client portfolio spans multiple industries, including HRTech, MedTech, CleanTech, or HighTech. However, while we’re all about tech, we’re not one-size-fits-all agency. Whether our clients are startups, growing companies, or corporations, we make sure our strategies fit their unique stages of growth.

What sets PRLab apart from other companies in the same field?

We like to view ourselves as integral team members, going beyond the role of traditional press agents. It’s this agility, customization, and forward-thinking mindset that truly sets PRLab apart.

This goes hand in hand with our outcome-driven approach. As a team, we are proactive in not only setting goals but continually monitoring and evaluating the set KPIs, such as media coverage, engagement metrics, and website traffic. This approach allows us to understand the effectiveness of our strategies in real-time and adapt our decisions based on data-driven results.

Can you talk about the initial challenges and difficulties you faced while starting up?

As PRLab is a bootstrap company, we started with our own capital and no external investors. This meant that the growth relied only on the revenue we generated. While this approach ensured financial discipline and a strong focus on profitability, it also meant that we couldn’t grow as rapidly as companies backed by investors.

Then, I started PRLab when I was 25 and this came with its own hurdles.  I had to navigate the business world while combating ageism and establishing credibility in the industry. Being a non-native of the Netherlands added another layer of complexity, requiring me to familiarize myself with local legal regulations and business practices. Launching a business is tough on its own, but doing it in a foreign country makes it even trickier.

Could you describe a typical day at work for you?

My workday is very dynamic. However, it has changed a lot from the early days of PRLab. Back then, I was juggling everything from PR to sales, finance, and HR. But as the company grew, my role shifted more towards leading and managing. 

Now, I’ve got more of a bird’s-eye view, keeping an eye on all parts of the business, from sales to operations. I make key decisions that shape the direction of our work and ensure we’re meeting our objectives. This perspective allows me to rise above day-to-day operations and see the bigger picture, guiding PR Lab’s long-term strategic vision.

Where do you envision PRLab and yourself in the next five years?

In the next five years, we aim to have fully independent teams operating internationally, providing our results-driven PR services to a wider range of tech companies.

Our growth strategy revolves around our current team. We truly believe in their potential and are dedicated to helping them grow professionally. As we expand, we want to grow alongside the amazing people we already have, sharpening their skills and knowledge to meet the evolving needs of our clients

Thank you Matías Rodesvich for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

Mark Hauser Profiles 9 Financial Institutions’ Roles in the U.S. Financial Services Industry

By
StartupValley
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0
mark hauser

United States financial institutions are an integral part of the nation’s financial services landscape. Each institution serves a certain target market and offers a specific services menu. Some financial institutions conduct business together while others operate independently.

Private equity principal Mark Hauser highlights nine types of relevant U.S. financial institutions.

Financial Institutions Defined

In a developed economy, financial institutions are companies engaged in specific types of monetary and financial transactions. Some financial institutions loan investors’ and depositors’ funds to individual or business borrowers who need financial resources. 

Certain financial institutions, such as investment banks, only cater to the business sector. Other financial institutions operate within the brokerage, insurance, or mortgage industries.  

Banking Institutions

Banking institutions (or banks) are entities that provide consumers and companies with diverse financial services. A bank primarily receives funds (or deposits) from depositors. The bank loans these funds to borrowers who need the funds for personal or business loans, mortgages, and other purposes.

Banks also process payments ranging from account holders’ personal checks to high-dollar bank-to-bank electronic payments. Banks also issue credit cards and debit cards along with processing those sales. Mark Hauser notes that banks often engage in investment activities and facilitate foreign exchange transactions.

Central Banks

Many nations operate central banks, a type of umbrella financial institution that manages the country’s other banks. The Federal Reserve Bank (or the Fed) is the United States’ central bank. The Fed sets the United States’ monetary policy. In addition, the Fed’s regional offices monitor and regulate applicable financial institutions’ operations.

Retail Banks and Commercial Banks

Historically, neighborhood retail banks have focused on consumer services such as savings and checking accounts, loans, and specialty services. In contrast, commercial banks concentrated on the business market.

Today, private equity expert Mark Hauser says the two entities have merged together. Most large-scale banks now serve consumers and businesses alike. These financial institutions offer deposit accounts along with loan services. 

To illustrate, retail and commercial banks offer savings and checking accounts along with Certificates of Deposit (or CDs). Credit card services, mortgages and personal loans, and business banking services are also available.

Exclusively Online Banks

Relatively new online-only banks and conventional banks have some key similarities. Both financial institutions support multiple bank account types. Some online banks also offer Certificates of Deposit (or CDs), credit cards, and debit cards. However, online checking accounts are generally not available.

With reduced operating costs, online-only banks minimize fees and offer attractive interest rates. Many Internet-only banks offer Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (or FDIC) insurance for eligible deposits. Banking services are available via a customer’s mobile device, computer, an ATM terminal, or the bank’s customer support line.

Investment Banks

An investment bank is a specialized financial institution focused on raising capital through issuance of marketable securities. Investment banks partner with private individuals, companies, and governments needing capital for a specific purpose.

Private equity expert Mark Hauser states that investment banks provide targeted expertise during sophisticated financial transactions. To illustrate, a start-up readying an Initial Public Offering (or IPO), or two merger-acquisition participants, might engage an investment bank’s services. Investment banks also provide major institutional clients with financial guidance.

Credit Unions

A credit union is a not-for-profit financial institution that provides most traditional banking services. Each credit union’s members form, own, and operate this financial entity.

As a non-publicly traded organization, a credit union only needs to generate enough income to fund its daily operations. This enables credit unions to offer lower interest rates and fees compared to banks.

For decades, credit unions only served a specific defined group such as a single company or organization. To illustrate, state employee credit unions are relatively common. Today, however, some credit unions have opened membership to the general public. An individual may only be required to join the non-profit organization for a minimal fee.

Savings and Loan Associations

A savings and loan association (or S&L) is also called a savings bank or thrift institution. Born during the 1930s, these customer-owned financial institutions were established to offer affordable residential property mortgages. Throughout the 20th century, many middle-class Americans turned to their local savings and loan association for a home loan.

Although less-prevalent today, savings and loan associations are still an active part of many communities. Besides residential mortgages, S&Ls typically offer checking accounts and personal loans.

3 Additional Types of Financial Institutions

The United States financial services landscape includes three other types of financial institutions. Private equity expert Mark Hauser discusses each entity’s role in the financial services ecosystem.

Brokerage Firms

A brokerage firm serves individuals and investors desiring to execute securities transactions. Traditional securities include stocks, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (or ETFs), and bonds. Brokers typically trade these securities based on clients’ direction.

More recently, alternative investments such as cryptocurrency have become available via online brokerages. These regulated financial services firms ensure the safety of investors’ funds. In contrast, a crypto exchange is a non-regulated entity without these protections.

Insurance Companies

Insurance companies protect clients (or policyholders) against financial losses from predetermined risks. These financial losses can result from incidents personally affecting the policyholder (usually the insured).  Financial losses could also occur due to third-party injury or damage. The non-covered policyholder could be deemed liable for these losses.

Through a contractual agreement, each policyholder receives protection against covered incidents. By pooling policyholders’ risks, the insurance company is able to offer more affordable policy premiums (or payments).

Individuals and businesses can select from multiple types of insurance coverage. Life, health, auto (vehicle), and homeowner’s insurance are the most common types of insurance policies. Many other types of coverage are available.


Mark Hauser, co-managing partner at Hauser Private Equity, highlights the many unknown roles that several US financial service industry institutions hold, and how they impact our daily lives.

Mark Hauser explains that certa in insurance companies team up with banks. The insurance company markets its products to the bank’s customers. This ideally creates a “win-win” partnership for both financial institutions.

Mortgage Companies

A mortgage company is a specialized financial institution that solely originates mortgage loans. To obtain the loan capital, mortgage companies collaborate with financial institutions with substantial capital resources.

It’s a misconception that mortgage lenders only make residential loans. Although residential mortgages represent a large market segment, certain mortgage companies only lend funds to commercial real estate clients.

In today’s highly digital world, many mortgage companies conduct their operations via the Internet. The remaining brick-and-mortar mortgage lenders have fewer branch locations. Both tactics allow the lenders to provide borrowers with lower mortgage rates and fees.

Financial Institutions Continue to Evolve

Changing economic conditions and regulatory issues can spur changes in financial institutions’ operations. Private equity principal Mark Hauser recommends that individuals and businesses conduct thorough due diligence before purchasing financial institutions’ products and/or services.

Autor: Gary Johnson

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

Shopping reimagined: Unleashing AI to transform sustainable fashion

By
Sabine Elsässer
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0
Flashee

Flashee, an AI-powered social shopping app, connects conscious consumers with independent brands worldwide, promoting sustainability and ethical practices

Could you please tell us about yourself and introduce your startup to our audience?

Absolutely! I’m Arina Ponomareva, an international entrepreneur and co-founder of Flashee. Flashee is an AI-powered social shopping app that connects conscious consumers with small, independent brands globally, fostering a community-driven platform rooted in sustainability and social responsibility.

What inspired the concept of Flashee?

The idea for Flashee came from my co-founder, Yvonne Teng, who invited me to join her in developing it. With my background in fashion and beauty, we saw an opportunity to support small brands and make sustainable fashion more accessible. Flashee isn’t about revolutionizing the industry; it’s about helping local brands grow and connecting shoppers with eco-friendly options they might not find elsewhere.

What motivated you to launch Flashee?

The motivation to launch Flashee stemmed from recognizing the need for innovation in the fashion retail sector. We saw an opportunity to leverage technology to revolutionize the way people discover and engage with brands while also addressing the growing demand for sustainability in fashion.

Could you share the core vision and mission of Flashee?

Our core vision at Flashee is to revolutionize the way people shop by providing a platform that champions small brands while promoting sustainability and ethical practices. Our mission is to create a vibrant community where conscious consumers can discover unique products that align with their values.

Can you talk about the initial challenges and difficulties you faced while starting up?

Initially, one of our main challenges was securing the necessary resources to develop Flashee into a fully functional platform. With limited investments, we’ve successfully onboarded over 20 small yet ambitious brands and garnered significant interest in our product on social media. However, to take Flashee to the next level and build an MVP showcasing the power of AI in optimizing the shopping experience, we require additional partners and investments.

Who do you consider the primary audience for your services?

Our primary audience includes a vibrant community of conscious shoppers who value authenticity, sustainability, and ethical consumption. We cater to individuals who seek unique, high-quality fashion items while prioritizing the planet and supporting small, mission-driven brands. Our platform resonates with trendsetters who appreciate the narrative behind each product and aspire to make a positive impact through their purchasing decisions.

What sets Flashee apart from other companies in the same field?

What sets Flashee apart is our unique blend of cutting-edge technology and a deep commitment to social responsibility. Unlike other shopping platforms, we’re not just about transactions; we prioritize connections between consumers and purpose-driven brands through AI-powered recommendations and immersive storytelling. For instance, Flashee is pioneering AI technology that tailors recommendations to users’ preferences, revolutionizing the way people discover fashion. Additionally, users can seamlessly make purchases from brands featured on our platform, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

Could you describe a typical day at work for you?

My typical day is a mix of planning, meetings, and getting things done. I start by catching up on emails and planning out my schedule. Then, it’s time for meetings – discussing ideas with my team, collaborating with partners, and making decisions. I spend a lot of time researching and strategizing to keep Flashee moving forward. And of course, there’s always room for unexpected surprises and challenges along the way!

Where do you envision Flashee and yourself in the next five years?

In the next five years, I see Flashee expanding its reach globally, becoming a household name in the tech and e-commerce industry. We aim to continuously innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of our users, offering new features and services that enhance the shopping experience. Personally, I envision myself leading Flashee’s growth strategy, collaborating with talented individuals, and contributing to the advancement of technology in retail. Together, we aspire to make a significant impact on the way people shop and connect with brands worldwide.

What are three pieces of advice you would offer to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Firstly, embrace failure as a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Secondly, surround yourself with a strong support network of mentors, peers, and advisors who can offer guidance and support along the way.
And finally, stay true to your vision and values, even in the face of challenges and setbacks, as they will ultimately guide you towards success.

Thank you Arina Ponomareva for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

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