The mobility and logistics of tomorrow: how Connekt connects startups and thus accelerates innovation

Last week, during the Connekt Affiliation event at the Dutch Innovation Park, we brought together established organizations and ambitious entrepreneurs with the aim of boosting innovation within our network. We are proud to welcome three new startups as Affiliate members following this afternoon: sCOOL2walk, Luxene, and Virtual Monkey. In this article, we tell you more about how we bridge the gap between proven expertise and innovative ideas.

The power of startups

At Connekt, we believe that accelerating innovation in mobility and logistics requires collaboration across organizational boundaries. Startups are indispensable in this regard; they look at complex challenges with a fresh perspective and provide the technological solutions that the market demands. Their strength lies in agility and speed, but to make a real impact, access to a large network is essential.

Our established members, in turn, benefit from this drive for innovation. To facilitate the ideal match, we created the Affiliation program. Since 2014, we have selected the most promising parties annually and introduced them to our members. By combining the experience of large organizations with the pioneering spirit of startups, opportunities arise that move the entire sector forward.

The Affiliation event

At the recent edition of the Connekt Affiliation Event, seven selected startups were given the stage to pitch their vision for smart and sustainable mobility. From digital road inspection tools to adaptable lighting solutions: the diversity was significant.

After the presentations, there was plenty of room for further exploration. Our members were able to engage directly with the startups regarding potential pilots and collaborations. The afternoon concluded with the presentation of memberships and coaching trajectories.

Our new Affiliate members

The main prize, a two-year membership, went to sCOOL2walk this year. This startup addresses a relevant social issue: the safety of children on their way to school. With their platform, they make it possible for parents and schools to organize safe walking and cycling groups. The jury was impressed by the scalability of the concept and the direct contribution it makes to the livability of neighborhoods.

Thanks to a match with Connekt member V-Tron B.V., we can also welcome Luxene to the network. Luxene increases road safety by making the road itself 'visible'. Their energy-efficient light lines in the road surface ensure that cycle paths and lanes are clearly marked, even in bad weather or in the dark. A great example of how hardware and safety go hand in hand.

The third new addition is Virtual Monkey, which received a coaching trajectory and membership from Connekt member Hastig. They make complex spatial plans understandable through immersive 3D and mixed reality. This helps governments and developers to make the impact of mobility choices visually insightful for all stakeholders, which increases support for new projects.

Accelerating together

The Affiliation Event has once again demonstrated that the future of mobility and logistics is shaped by making connections. We look forward to taking great steps toward a sustainable ecosystem together with our new and existing members in the coming period.